For followers of Buddhism, Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh may be a pilgrim center. For History lovers, Sanchi is an ancient land with a number of interesting destinations that stand proof of its rich past. Sanchi houses Great Stupa, which is the country’s oldest stone structure. After the decline of Buddhism during this a part of the planet, Sanchi appeared to be out of the map until it had been rediscovered by General Taylor, a British officer. Declared by UNESCO as the ‘World Heritage Site’ in the year 1989, Sanchi attracts tourists from all over the world.

Stupas naturally come to your mind if you think that of Sanchi. The stupas here are stunning specimen of the architectural excellence of the past. Great Stupa, which is Sanchi’s first stupa, was constructed in 3rd century BC by Emperor Ashoka. The exquisite carvings within the stupa boast of the craftsmanship involved in its making. The Great Stupa is situated on a hill at a height of about 300 feet. The 71 feet tall stupa looks spectacular as you view from afar. Visiting Great Stupa would be a beautiful beginning to tour Sanchi; yes, you would feel as if you are revisiting history.

Nothing could be more interesting than viewing the works of the past. Withstood the test of times or in ruins, historic monuments always draw your attention. They not only allow you to look into the past but make your imagination go wild as you walk down the path that was treaded by angels and devils, victorious and therefore the defeated, magnanimous and therefore the cruel characters in history. Udayagiri Caves, a gaggle of 20 caves, make a stimulating presentation of the past. Sculptures representing Hinduism and Jainism from Gupta Era are seen within the caves. The caves date back to a period between 4th and 5th century AD. Some of the caves are located at the highest of Capitol Hill while most are located within the foothill. Giant Narasimha sculpture attracts the most.

Life of Emperor Ashoka has many tell to power mongers. Rarely such examples are seen within the past when an emperor as mighty as Ashoka decided to travel the trail of angels by calling an end to war to overcome land. He had conveyed his message loud and clear by building pillars across his kingdom. The pillars ranged between 40 to 50 feet tall. Near the southern gateway of Sanchi Stupa stands the famous Ashoka Pillar of 3rd century BC. The pillar represents elegance, creativity and exquisite architecture. Built in Greco Buddhist style, the 16.4 meter tall pillar with Four Lions had been given a shocking polish making the pillar brilliantly shine till so far.

Sanchi Museum is that the right place to find out more about the history of the place. The museum houses excavated objects that are over 2000 years old. Since it’s a shocking collection of antique that belongs to varied dynasties, you get to find out more about the life-style of the people belonging to varied cultures.

Constructed within the 5th century AD, Gupta Temple in Sanchi stands proof of the architectural excellence of the Gupta period. It also reflects the integrity that prevailed among people belonging to varied faiths for the temple was constructed during a land that was predominantly a Buddhist pilgrim center. The structural great thing about the temple so captivated Sir Marshall that he considered it one among the foremost logical designs. The temple may be a must visit destination in Sanchi.