The footprints and the throne denote the Buddha's presence. Sanchi was virtually forgotten after the 13th Century until 1818, when General Taylor, a British Officer rediscovered it, half buried and well preserved. Later in 1912, Sir John Marshal, Director General of Archeology ordered the restoration work at the site.

Some of the important monuments in Sanchi are: - The Great Stupa No.1- 36.5mts in diameter and 16.4 mts high it is one of the oldest stone structures in India. With a massive hemispherical dome, the stupa stands majestically. The paved procession path around it has become smooth by centuries of pilgrim's visit. Built originally as an earthen stupa by the Emperor Ashoka, it was rebuilt in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC. The last of the additions to this remarkable stupa are the elaborate and richly carved four gateways or Toranas. The first of the four gateways to be erected was the one at the Southern Entrance, followed, in chronological order by the Northern, the Eastern and the Western Gateways.

The Southern Gateway: Reveals the birth of Gautum in a series of dramatically rich carvings. The southern Gateway: crowned by a wheel of law, illustrates the miracle associated with the Buddha as told in the Jataka tales. The Eastern Gateway, depicts the young prince, Gautam, leaving his father's place, renouncing worldly life to seek enlightenment .The inner face of the right pillar portrays the dream of Maya, the mother of Buddha, when she conceived him. The Western Gateway depicts the Seven incarnations of the Buddha, four represented by trees and three by stupas; the Buddha preaching his first sermon at the Deer Park, Sarnath and the Chhaddanta Jataka tale.

 

How to Reach Sanchi by Air: The nearest airport is Bhopal the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. Bhopal is an important domestic airport in central India, which is served by several airlines. Regular flights connect Bhopal to key Indian cities like: Delhi, Mumbai and so on.

How to Reach Sanchi by Road: Sanchi is located close to important cities in Madhya Pradesh. A good network of roads connects Sanchi to Bhopal (46kms), Vidisha (10kms), Indore (232kms).

How to Reach Sanchi by Rail: The nearest Railhead from Sanchi is also located at Bhopal. A well-laid rail network links Bhopal to several Railway Stations in India. so you can reach Bhopal from any part of the country.

TEL: +91-755-4005748

Email: info@sanchi.org

34 , Ground Floor , Kamdhenu Tower

Habib Ganj Railway Station

Bhopal - 462016

Madhya Pradesh, India