Sanchi: Complete Travel Guide 2025

Great Stupa (Stupa No. 1)

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

The Great Stupa is the main attraction in Sanchi, commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. It is a massive hemispherical brick structure built over relics of the Buddha.

Walking around the stupa allows you to admire the intricate carvings on the gateways (toranas), which depict scenes from the Buddha's life and the Jataka tales. The sheer size and historical significance of the stupa are awe-inspiring.

Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash inside the stupa complex. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

Hours: 08:30-17:30 daily
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Getting There: Taxi or auto-rickshaw from Sanchi town center.

Honest Take: Worth visiting to appreciate the ancient architecture and learn about Buddhist history.

💡 Insider Tip:

Hire a local guide to get a deeper understanding of the carvings and history of the stupa.

Stupa No. 2

⏱ 1 hour ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Stupa No. 2 is smaller than the Great Stupa but is significant for its elaborate carvings. It contains relics of Buddhist teachers.

The stupa's railing is decorated with intricate carvings of various symbols and figures. It offers a quieter, less crowded experience compared to the Great Stupa.

Take your time to examine the details of the carvings on the railing. It showcases the skill of ancient artisans.

Hours: 08:30-17:30 daily
Best Time: Morning.
Getting There: Located within the Sanchi complex, a short walk from the Great Stupa.

Honest Take: Worth a quick visit if you are already at the Sanchi complex.

💡 Insider Tip:

Look closely at the carvings to identify different Buddhist symbols and motifs.

Stupa No. 3

⏱ 30 minutes ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Stupa No. 3 is another significant stupa within the Sanchi complex. It contains relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana, two of Buddha's chief disciples.

The stupa has a single gateway, which is also decorated with carvings. It offers a serene atmosphere for contemplation.

Climb the stairs to get a closer view of the stupa and its surroundings.

Hours: 08:30-17:30 daily
Best Time: Any time of day
Getting There: Located within the Sanchi complex, near the Great Stupa.

Honest Take: A good addition to your visit to the Sanchi complex.

💡 Insider Tip:

Spend a few moments in quiet reflection near the stupa to appreciate its spiritual significance.

Ashoka Pillar

⏱ 15 minutes ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

The Ashoka Pillar is a monolithic sandstone pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka. Only the base remains, but fragments of the pillar and its capital are displayed in the Sanchi Archaeological Museum.

The pillar symbolizes Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism and his commitment to spreading the Dharma. It is a testament to the Mauryan empire's influence.

Imagine the pillar in its full glory and appreciate its historical importance.

Hours: 08:30-17:30 daily
Best Time: Any time of day
Getting There: Located near the Great Stupa.

Honest Take: Worth seeing to understand the history of the site.

💡 Insider Tip:

Read the information panels to learn about the pillar's history and significance.

Sanchi Archaeological Museum

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

The Sanchi Archaeological Museum houses a collection of artifacts discovered at the Sanchi site. It includes sculptures, pottery, and other relics.

The museum provides valuable insights into the history and art of the Sanchi complex. You can see the lion capital of the Ashoka Pillar up close.

Photography is generally allowed, but check with the museum staff for any restrictions.

Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Fridays
Best Time: Any time of day
Getting There: Located within the Sanchi complex.

Honest Take: A must-visit to complement your experience at the stupas.

💡 Insider Tip:

Focus on the key artifacts, such as the lion capital and the sculptures from the gateways.

Gupta Temple

⏱ 30 minutes ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

The Gupta Temple is one of the earliest known examples of temple architecture in India. It dates back to the Gupta period (4th-5th century CE).

The temple is small but well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the architectural style of the Gupta era. It showcases the evolution of temple design.

Admire the simple yet elegant design of the temple.

Hours: 08:30-17:30 daily
Best Time: Any time of day
Getting There: Located near the Great Stupa.

Honest Take: Worth a quick visit if you are interested in ancient Indian architecture.

💡 Insider Tip:

Notice the difference in architectural style compared to the Buddhist stupas.

Udayagiri Caves

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹25 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners)

The Udayagiri Caves are a series of rock-cut cave sanctuaries dating back to the Gupta period. They contain both Hindu and Jain sculptures.

The caves are known for their intricate carvings and religious iconography. The Varaha panel depicting Vishnu in his boar incarnation is particularly impressive.

Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be climbing some steps. Carry water, especially during the hotter months.

Hours: 09:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon
Getting There: Approximately 10 km from Sanchi, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

Honest Take: Worth visiting if you have time and are interested in Hindu and Jain art.

💡 Insider Tip:

Hire a local guide to learn about the different sculptures and their religious significance.