Great Stupa of Sanchi
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Great Stupa at Sanchi stands as one of India's oldest and most significant stone monuments, rising from a hilltop in Madhya Pradesh about 46 kilometers northeast of Bhopal. The massive hemispherical dome structure, built from sandstone blocks, reaches approximately 16 meters in height and 37 meters in diameter at its base. Surrounded by intricately carved stone gateways called toranas, the stupa complex showcases some of the finest examples of early Buddhist art and architecture. The site overlooks the fertile plains of central India, positioned strategically on ancient trade routes that connected northern and southern regions of the subcontinent. Some theorists have proposed that the Great Stupa's distinctive hemispherical dome may have been inspired by vimanas—the flying vehicles described in ancient Hindu texts—suggesting it commemorates extraterrestrial encounters witnessed by Ashoka or his contemporaries. However, archaeologists point to the stupa's construction history and architectural evolution, tracing its design to earlier earthen mounds and Buddhist reliquaries, with the stone dome representing a natural progression in building techniques and materials available during the 3rd century BC. The site's primary historical significance rests on its connection to Emperor Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism following the Kalinga War, marking a pivotal moment in spreading Buddhist philosophy across the Indian subcontinent.
Timeline
Emperor Ashoka commissions the original stupa following his conversion to Buddhism after the Kalinga War
Later rulers expand the structure and add the ornate stone gateways (toranas) with detailed carvings
British General Taylor rediscovers the abandoned site, beginning modern archaeological interest
UNESCO designates Sanchi as a World Heritage Site recognizing its outstanding universal value
What the Show Claims
- ›The dome shape of the Great Stupa was modeled after vimanas—extraterrestrial flying vehicles described in Hindu textsS06E07
- ›Ashoka the Great built the stupa as a stone memorial to UFOs he or his contemporaries had witnessedS06E07
Theorist Takes
“When you look at the structure of these stupas, it certainly appears as if there may be some reference being made in their shape, to actual extraterrestrial piloted vehicles.”
From the Transcripts
“Sanchi, India. Here, 400 miles south of New Delhi, lies the Great Stupa, a dome shaped Buddhist shrine. This incredible structure was first commissioned in the third century BC by Ashoka the Great.”
What Archaeology Says
Archaeological investigations at Sanchi have revealed a complex construction history spanning several centuries. The original stupa built under Ashoka was a simpler brick structure, later enlarged and encased in sandstone during the Shunga and Satavahana periods. Excavations have uncovered relic caskets within the stupa's core, containing fragments believed to be associated with Buddha's disciples, confirming the monument's function as a religious reliquary.
The site's four ornate gateways, added between 150-50 BC, represent masterpieces of early Indian sculpture. These toranas feature intricate carvings depicting scenes from Buddha's life, Jataka tales, and contemporary life, providing invaluable insights into ancient Indian society, religious practices, and artistic traditions. Archaeological evidence suggests the complex housed a thriving monastic community for over a millennium.
Scholarly consensus views Sanchi as a supreme example of Buddhist architectural evolution, demonstrating the religion's spread under Mauryan patronage. The stupa's design follows traditional Buddhist cosmological principles, with the hemispherical dome representing the cosmic egg or universe. The harmika (square railing) at the summit and the central pillar (yashti) symbolize the axis connecting earth and heaven.
While the monument's religious and architectural significance is well-established, some aspects remain subjects of ongoing research. Questions persist about the precise dating of various construction phases, the identity of specific artisan workshops responsible for the sculptural programs, and the full extent of the ancient monastic settlement that once surrounded the main stupa.
Mysteries & Fun Facts
The site was completely abandoned and overgrown by jungle until British officers rediscovered it in 1818
The four ornate gateways were carved by different artisan guilds, each displaying distinct artistic styles and techniques
Relic caskets discovered within the stupa contained crystal and pearl fragments, along with small gold leaves
The complex originally included over 50 monuments, though only about a dozen major structures survive today
Planning a Visit
The Sanchi complex is generally accessible to visitors year-round, with well-maintained pathways connecting the main stupa to smaller monuments scattered across the hilltop. The site features a museum displaying artifacts discovered during excavations, and guided tours are available through the Archaeological Survey of India. The peaceful hilltop setting provides excellent opportunities for photography and quiet contemplation.
Bhopal, approximately 46 kilometers southwest
October through March offers the most comfortable weather for exploring the site, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. Early morning visits are particularly rewarding for photography and avoiding crowds.
Related Sites
Kailasa Temple
Another remarkable ancient Indian stone monument that ancient astronaut theorists claim shows advanced construction techniques
Harappa
Fellow ancient Indian civilization site that raises questions about lost advanced knowledge in the subcontinent
Chichen Itza - Kukulkan Temple
Pyramid-like structure from another culture that theorists suggest shares cosmic symbolism with Buddhist stupas
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Historical data sourced from Wikipedia