Sanchi

8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Sanchi is extremely famous for being the site of countless Stupas, which house the relics of Lord Buddha. Given the popularity of this historical wonder from the Mauryan Empire, it is surprising to note that Sanchi was not even visited by Lord Buddha once. Sanchi Stupa, built in the Greco-Buddhist style, at the end of 3rd century B.C., is now a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides, there is also Ashoka Pillar, apart from the Great Bowl, which is worth visiting. So if you're into Mauryan history, this is definitely a must-visit destination!

• The Sanchi Stupa was constructed in the honour of Lord Buddha by Emperor Ashoka in 3rd century BC
• The height of the Great Stupa is around 54 feet
• Most of the Buddha statues at the Sanchi Stupa were said to be painted with a legendary Mauryan polish that made them shine like glass in the erstwhile days
• The Stupa actually symbolises the life of Buddha and his final release from the cycle of birth and rebirth (Moksha)
• The last addition to the Stupa was done during the rule of the Guptas, prior to 450 AD
• The Stupa is surrounded by four gateways that represent various scenes from the life of Lord Buddha and the Jataka Tales
• The national emblem of India was derived from the Ashoka Pillar of Sanchi Stupa.
• Sanchi Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The original structure was a low structure of brick, half the diameter of the current monument. Emperor Ashoka’s consort originated from the neighbouring town of Vidisha, and the beautiful hill was immensely enchanting to him. Labourers were hired from Vidisha to construct this marvellous edifice.

Every stupa has three fundamental features:

• The Anda, or the sacred hemispherical mound within which lies the sacred remains of Lord Buddha. The Anda in the Sanchi Stupa has a solid core and cannot be entered. Within the Anda lie the actual relics of Lord Buddha.
• The Square railing or harmika situated in the centre marks the sacred burial site.
• The Chattra or the large hemispherical umbrella-like structure that covers the burial site completes this magnificent structure. The Great Stupa has 3 circular umbrella disks, representative of the three jewels, or Triantha of Buddhism. These chattras are supproted by a large central pillar.

In addition to these fundamental structures, the Sanchi Stupa has additional features that add to its glory. Lord Buddha has been symbolically represented through the use of the figures like thrones, wheels and footprints among others, a unique representation of the founder of Buddhism. There are four intricately decorated gateways in the four cardinal directions, joined by a balustrade wall that encloses the entire monument. Various designs and motifs are carved on the railing and the gates of the Stupa. A sandstone pillar, inscribed with Schism Edict by Ashoka can be found at the site. An ornate spiral from the Gupta period, with Brahmi characters resembling conch shells, referred to as ‘Shankhalipi’ or ‘shell-script’, was later installed at the location.

Being around for a couple of millennia, this fascinating structure has stood the ravages of time and war that have affected the land. The stone casing, porch with a double flight of steps, balustrades, a processional path, an umbrella and railing, all built of sandstone, were added in the 2nd century BC. The stone encasing holds the original brick foundation of the monument. The original carvings of the structures depict the life of Buddha, which have been blended well with carvings of the various classical periods of India. The lion, a sign of Buddha, is carved into various locations. The overall architecture is meant to represent the various tenets of the Buddhist faith, with each of the carvings narrating their own tale.

Sanchi does not have too many elaborate eating places or delicacies that stand out. However, the town does foster a subtle variety and the few eating joints available here offer decent North Indian, South Indian, Chinese and Continental dishes. The local delicacies of Madhya Pradesh that you might chance upon here include Dal Bafla, Biryani, Kebabs, Korma, Poha, Rogan Josh, Jalebi, Ladoos as well as beverages like Lassi and Sugarcane Juice.
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The top places near to Sanchi are Udayagiri caves which is 6 km from Sanchi, Bhimbetka which is located 61 km from Sanchi, Bhopal which is located 41 km from Sanchi, Pachmarhi which is located 133 km from Sanchi, Agra which is located 411 km from Sanchi

The top things to do in Sanchi are Sanchi Stupa, The Great Bowl, Ashok Pillar, The Eastern Gateway, Udaygiri Caves, Sanchi Museum. You can see all the places to visit in Sanchi here

Sanchi has its own railway station but doesn't have an airport. The nearest airport from Sanchi are both are in Bhopal, which is 46 km. You can take a taxi or a bus from Bhopal to reach Sanchi. Bhopal is very well connected with the rest of India by both air and rail. A few international flights are operational to and fro from Bhopal. Sanchi can also be reached by using a cab or a bus from other towns of Madhya Pradesh.
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Sanchi does not have too many elaborate eating places or delicacies that stand out. However, the town does foster a subtle variety and the few eating joints available here offer decent North Indian, South Indian, Chinese and Continental dishes. The local delicacies of Madhya Pradesh that you might chance upon here include Dal Bafla, Biryani, Kebabs, Korma, Poha, Rogan Josh, Jalebi, Ladoos as well as beverages like Lassi and Sugarcane Juice.
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The best time to visit Sanchi is from November to March during the winters, as the temperature can be quite high during the summers. You can also visit Sanchi during the monsoon season, however, it might be a bit difficult to get around the city if it is raining too hard.
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Buddhists. People interested in architecture and archaeology.

Abode to infinite Buddhist & Mauryan history. Houses the famous Sanchi Stupa.