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BUDDHIST DESTINATION |
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BUDDHIST SITES |
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| SANCHI |
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| Sanchi, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, was built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, the then governor of Ujjaini. His daughter and son, Sanghamitra and Mahindra respectively, were sent to Sri Lanka where they converted the king, queen and the local people to Buddhism.
The massive stupa at Sanchi with its intricately carved toranas (gateways) is noted to be a complete example of the early Buddhist stupa architecture in its extant form. Buddhist site in Sanchi is one of the world heritage sites at Unesco. Bhopal is the nearest airport to Sanchi (46 kms) and is well connected by rail and road with rest of the country.
Sanchi is quite famous for its Stupas, had many a name in the historical times, such as Kakanaya, Kakanava, Kakanadabota etc. The stupas in the place are simple irresistible and showcases the history of Buddhism in India, in a simple yet convincing manner. There is some Stupa built by Ashoka, which are special attractions of this place. |
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| Sanchi Attractions |
The Stupas:
The huge gateways and the stories encrypted inside the large domes are definitely the most attractive lessons in the Sanchi Chapter of Buddhism. The sculptures and the murals in the Stupa teach the basic values of Buddhism. The presence of Lotus in large number showcases purity amidst sins. There are many other shapes that are exhibited brilliantly in stones, among them human, elephants, jataka tales' characters etc are prominent. There is a way around the Stupa to circumambulate it, which is another attraction of the structure.
The ASI museum:
Archaeological Survey of India has a museum in Sanchi housing many antiquities related to Buddhism, especially the Ashokan Pillar, the lion Capital is quite beautiful and attracts every archaeology lover. |
| How to Reach |
Air : Bhopal airport is the nearest, situated at a distance of approximately 46 km.
By Rail : Nearest railway station is at Vidisha, approximately 10 km from Sanchi.
By Road : Sanchi is well connected to Bhopal, Vidisha and Indore through well-laid road network.
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