Sanchi Stupa is a Buddhist monument and place of worship, located at 46kms north of Bhopal city in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is in a small village at hill (90 meter high) in Raisen District of Madhya Pradesh and a World heritage site since 1989. A stupa is a Sanskrit language word which means heap containing Buddhist relics, remains of Lord Buddha. Here we can find number of stupas, monasteries, temples and pillars dating from 3rd century BC to 12th century AD. The "Great Stupa" at Sanchi is the oldest structure in India, comissioned by great Mauryan emperor Ashoka in 3rd century BC. Main Stupa is surrounded by Toranas representing love, peace, courage and trust. Toranas are gateway structure which seen in Buddhist & Hindu architecture.
Sanchi Stupas are unknown to rest of the world till 1818 when a British officer General Taylor visited this site and recognized its historical importance. Amateur archeologists and people in search of treasure caused damage to this site in 1881. Its planned proper restoration work was done between year 1912 to 1919 to restore it to its present condition under supervision of Sir John Marshall. Their are 50 monument remain on Sanchi hill along with 3 stupas and many temples. They all collectively called Sanchi Monuments listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The following is the list of the Great Indian Heritage Sites . Please click on the one you wish to visit for more details
