The Sanchi Stupa, located in the town of Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh is one of the most important and well-preserved ancient Buddhist monuments in India. It is recognized for its historical, religious, and architectural significance. Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its stupas, monasteries, temples, and pillars dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Visiting Sanchi Stupa is a deeply enriching experience, offering a glimpse into the ancient history of Buddhism in India.

Historical Background

• Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka (3rd Century BCE): The Great Stupa at Sanchi, also known as Stupa No. 1, was originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka the Great in the 3rd century BCE. Ashoka, who converted to Buddhism after the Kalinga War, played a pivotal role in spreading Buddhism across India and beyond. Sanchi became an important center for Buddhist learning and pilgrimage under his patronage.
• Original Structure: The original structure of the Great Stupa was a simple hemispherical brick structure. It was built to enshrine the relics of the Buddha. It symbolized the burial mound of the Buddha. It became a model for later stupas in India and other Buddhist countries.
• Subsequent Additions (2nd Century BCE – 1st Century CE): During the Shunga and Satavahana periods, the stupa was enlarged and enhanced. The brick stupa was encased in stone, and a paved procession path (pradakshina patha) was added around the mound. The four elaborately carved gateways (toranas) were constructed in the 1st century BCE, each facing a cardinal direction.

Key Attractions at Sanchi

1. The Great Stupa (Stupa No. 1)
   • Description: The Great Stupa is the most prominent structure at Sanchi. It is a large hemispherical dome (anda) that houses relics of the Buddha. The stupa is surrounded by a stone railing and features four intricately carved gateways (toranas) facing the cardinal directions.
   • Highlights: The gateways are decorated with detailed carvings. These carvings depict scenes from the life of the Buddha. They also illustrate the Jataka tales, which narrate the previous lives of the Buddha.
2. Stupa No. 2 and Stupa No. 3
   • Stupa No. 2: Located on a lower terrace, Stupa No. 2 is notable for its stone balustrade and the depiction of symbols like the lotus and the swastika.
   • Stupa No. 3: Smaller than the Great Stupa, Stupa No. 3 contains relics of two of the Buddha’s chief disciples, Sariputra and Mahamoggallana. It also features a single torana.
3. Ashoka Pillar
   • Description: Near the southern entrance of the Great Stupa stands the remains of an Ashoka Pillar. It is known for its polished sandstone. The pillar has a capital featuring four lions (now in the Sanchi Museum). The pillar is a symbol of Emperor Ashoka’s patronage of Buddhism.
4. Buddhist Viharas (Monasteries)
   • Description: The site includes several ruins of ancient monasteries where monks lived and studied. These provide insights into monastic life during ancient times.
5. The Sanchi Museum
   • Description: Managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The museum houses various artifacts, sculptures, and relics excavated from the site. These include the famous lion capital from the Ashoka Pillar.
6. Temple 17
   • Description: Temple 17 is an early example of classical Indian temple architecture, dating to the Gupta period. It is a simple but elegant structure that showcases early temple design.

Getting to Sanchi

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Bhopal’s Raja Bhoj Airport is the closest airport, around 55 kilometers from Sanchi.
• From the Airport: You can hire a taxi from the airport to Sanchi, which takes about 1.5 hours.

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: The Sanchi Railway Station is the closest, but it is a small station. Vidisha Railway Station, about 10 kilometers from Sanchi, is better connected with major cities.
• From Vidisha: You can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Sanchi, which is a short 20-minute drive away.

By Road

• From Bhopal: Sanchi is well-connected by road and can be reached via NH146. The drive takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Buses, taxis, and private vehicles are all options for travel.

A visit to the Sanchi Stupa offers a profound journey through history, spirituality, and art. The serene environment, coupled with the architectural grandeur of the stupas and temples, makes Sanchi a must-visit for history enthusiasts, Buddhists, and travelers alike. Winter season especially from November to March is the best time to visit the place. It is also recommended to take a guided tour of the place to better appreciate the history of the place and significance of each and every structure in the complex.

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