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Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi

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The Great Stupa of Sanchi, begun in the time of Emperor Ashoka, with its richly carved stone gateways.

MonumentSanchi, Raisen district, about 46 km from BhopalBest time to visit: October to MarchUNESCO heritage 1989

Highlights

  • The Great Stupa (Stupa No. 1) and its four carved gateways (toranas)
  • Jataka stories and scenes from the Buddha’s life carved on the gateways
  • Ashokan pillar and later monasteries and temples on the hill
  • Archaeological Survey of India site museum

Significance

Sanchi is among the oldest stone structures in India and a major centre of Buddhist art from the 3rd century BCE onwards. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989, and the Great Stupa appears on the ₹200 note.

Sources