Sanchi Stupa is a historically significant Buddhist monument located in Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh. The main highlight of this dusty town is enormous hemispherical structure called Stupa which houses relics of Buddha. It was built in 3rd century BCE under the reign of Emperor Ashoka of Maurya dynasty. His main motive was to promote and preserve the teachings of Lord Buddha. A lot of travelers make their way here to see this remarkable primitive example of temple architecture. In 1989, it was included in the list of UNESCO World heritage sites.
The interesting spot is a paradise for those inclined to Buddhist history and architecture. You can connect the incidents of Emperor Ashoka that you read in the history books with the elegantly standing structures. The height of this grand Stupa measures 54 feet. Later four gateways called Torans were added that exhibit Buddha's life incidence through fine carvings. One of the Pillars of Ashoka was also erected on the main Toran gateway. But, only bottom part remains as the upper part of the pillar is placed at the Sanchi Archaeological Museum for preservation.
The original stupa built by Ashoka had a huge hemispherical brick dome protecting the relics of Lord Buddha. Its base was surrounded by an elevated terrace, a balustrade and a chatra or stone umbrella. On the contrary, the present structure was constructed by Shunga. They replaced the brick dome with stone and doubled the diameter of the dome. Shunga Empire rose to prominence after killing the last ruler of the Maurya Empire, Brihadratha Maurya.
Sanchi Stupa complex stores more interesting monuments that evoke curiosity in history. One such example is Temple 40, one of the earliest example of free-standing (mountain-like spire taking the form of curving shikhara or pyramidal vimana) temples in India. Traces of three different periods are found here with the earliest one belonging to Maurya age. Another example is Stupa No 2, believed to have been erected by Shungas. It was built after the main Stupa but is a testament to the earliest architectural ornaments. It is called 'the oldest extensive stupa decoration in existence' for the elaborate decorations on it. This stupa is also considered as the birthplace of Jataka illustrations. This list also contains Stupa No 3 which also belongs to Shunga period. It is known for having the Relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana.
Sanchi Archaeological Museum located near the archaeological site of Sanchi is worth paying a visit. It is an impressive gallery showcasing intriguing relics like remains of one of the pillars of Ashoka, Avalokitesvara head made of sandstone, Sanchi Pillar 35 Vajrapani statue and Naga in human form 400-500 CE. A total of four galleries constitute an amazing collection of Buddha heritage.
The historical site is an excellent place to rediscover various life incidences of Lord Buddha and witness the magnificent architecture.
MarcoFrance1965
UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE !
I just came back from a 12 days Rajasthan tour. It was just myself and my 14 year olde daughter. I found Caper surfing the web and had non suggestion from friends and had never read comments or reviews about it. Totally "blind-choice". I was very lucky. The organization was really excellent. The agent that followed us, Mr. Praveen Juyal did a great job. I decided our itinerary and he punctually gave me suggestions on the best management of my choices. The hotel choice was fine and confirmed expectations. We had tour guides in every site seeing location and they were all extremely professional, very punctual and really kind and polite.
But I must say that what made the trip even better was our driver; Mr. Deshraj.
One of those persons that you really wish you could meet once in your life. Not only an excellent driver but always helpful, respectful and friendly. He explained us many things about Indian life along the journey and sometimes stopped for short breaks in beautiful places on the road that were not even mentioned in the guide books. My only regret is that at the end of the trip I didn't have much money left and I left a tip probably not adeguate for the kind of service but I will definitely send him try to sort this maybe in a next trip. Thank you very much Caper and Deshraj.
Dreamer802943
A Memorable Trip
We recently concluded a 12 day driving tour of New Delhi, Agra and Rajasthan with Caper Travel. It was most enjoyable !! The logistics arrangements were excellent - from tour planning , hotel selection , vehicle condition to driver. Mr Alok handled the planning, and Mr Vikram was our Tempo driver throughout the journey. Mr Vikram was very helpful , accommodating and patient throughout the tour, despite long hours of driving on the roads ( not to mention India traffic}. We would not hesitate to recommend Caper to our fellow travellers who are thinking of visiting India. Thank You Caper !
goochie33, London, United Kingdom
Golden triangle goa and mumbia
Just come back from an amazing 2 week trip to India. First we done the golden triangle which we chose to do the train trip from Delhi to Agra a must you have to do if not just for the experience. All the cities were wonderful but be prepared to see lots of temple one seems to run into another but wow the taj was my highlight along with the Hindu temple in Delhi. The driving the cows the dogs are everywhere are all an experience. Goa was beautiful we stayed at the taj exotica. In mumbia we done a city tour and ended our trip in the taj for afternoon tea another must. It is a exhilarating trip but one I will never forget. From booking with Manika to all the drivers and guides they were always there to meet us from the airport and hotels on time. They really looked after us thank you all.
Aileen M
Wonderful trip
We have just returned from our first trip to India and we must say it was absolutely fascinating. The itinerary was first class and covered everything we could have wished for. On arrival we were met by a very nice rep and driver who took us to our hotel and sorted out the necessary paperwork with us. We had our driver Vishan for our time in the north and he was terrific, kept the vehicle spotless and kept us supplied with water. We then flew to the south of India and met up with our driver Suhdeer who again was very nice and very informative about things as we drove along. The guides we had on all our trips were excellent and again very informative.
The only down side to it all was that in our package we paid for the drivers accommodation, food and allowance only to find out that the drivers don’t receive this money and if they want accommodation they have to pay for it themselves. We ended up paying one of our drivers an amount for the nights that we had him for him to get somewhere to sleep and food as we were concerned that if he slept in his car he wouldn’t be rested enough to take on the next day driving for 4-5 hours.
All in all Caper Travel are excellent in their planning and can’t fault them for that.
Urquiola, New York City, New York
Caper travel
Recently traveled to India on a private guided tour with Caper Travel. Ms. Mumtaz Khan worked with me on arranging my itinerary.
She was always available to answer all my concerns immediately. On my arrival in Delhi I was welcome with warm smile at the airport by a young gentleman name Kapol Joshi . My experience with the company was amazing and I would highly recommend to anyone traveling to India.
I would also like to mention the personal attention I received at Amritsar by Aman Shara and his lovely wife who welcomed me and my son to their home
and soon to open their beautiful hotel.
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