Great Stupa of Sanchi

About Great Stupa of Sanchi

On a hilltop above the plains of central India, the Great Stupa of Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in the country. Emperor Ashoka commissioned the first brick stupa in the third century BCE, and later generations enlarged it into the broad hemispherical dome seen today. It was a thriving monastic center for over a thousand years.

Its four gateways, or toranas, are masterpieces of early Indian art, carved with scenes from the Buddha's life and earlier births. Notably the Buddha himself is never shown in human form; instead footprints, a throne, a wheel or a tree signal his presence. Smaller stupas, temples and monasteries surround the main monument.

What to see

• Four carved stone toranas
• Great Stupa dome with railings
• Stupa 3 that held relics of two disciples
• Gupta era Temple 17
• Archaeological Survey museum

Visiting Great Stupa of Sanchi: practical guide

Best time

October to March

Hours

Open daily, sunrise to sunset

Entry

About INR 40 for Indians and INR 600 for foreigners

Dress code

Comfortable modest clothing and a hat

Nearest airport

Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal (BHO), 55 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Easy day trip from Bhopal
• Combine with Udayagiri caves nearby
• Bring binoculars for the gateway carvings

Festivals and special days

• Chethiyagiri Vihara Festival (late November)
• Buddha Purnima

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
• Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
• Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
• Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
• Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
• Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions