The Sacred Buddhist Stupa of Sanchi

I arrived at Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient Buddhist stupas, monasteries, and temples. The stupa is said to house some of the relics of Buddha and is considered one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India. The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in India and was originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. It was later expanded and adorned with intricate carvings during the 1st century BCE-1st century CE under the Satavahanas and the Guptas. The site also contains monasteries and temples that were built during the same period, reflecting the evolution of Buddhist art and architecture over time. I was fascinated by the intricate designs on the gateways, known as toranas, which depict scenes from the life of Buddha and Jataka tales. The serene atmosphere and the spiritual significance of the site made it a truly unique experience.