Beyond Sanchi: Unexplored Buddhist Sites of Madhya Pradesh

By Dr Vanita Srivastava
--
Ever wondered which Buddhist sites in Madhya Pradesh lie beyond the iconic Sanchi Stupa? For travellers seeking raw, lesser-known spiritual landscapes, the state offers a treasure trove of serene and historically rich Buddhist sites - still largely untouched by mainstream tourism. Add these hidden gems to your future bucket list.

Madhya Pradesh is best known for the Sanchi Stupa, located just 48 km from Bhopal. Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka, it is among the oldest stone structures in India and a major centre of Buddhist learning. It is believed that Mahinda and Sanghamitra, Ashoka's children, were educated here before spreading Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Interestingly, within a 30 km radius of Sanchi lie several remarkable yet lesser-explored Buddhist sites that echo the teachings of the Buddha.

Satdhara - A Significant Buddhist Centre

Located barely 9 km from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sanchi, Satdhara is an important Buddhist complex featuring stupas, a chaitya, and a rock shelter adorned with a painted image of the Buddha from the Maurya and Gupta periods. Stupa No. 2 yielded relic caskets believed to contain the remains of Sariputra and Mahamaudgalyayana, two of the Buddha's foremost disciples.

Murelkhurd (Bhojpur Stupas) - A Cluster of 37 Stupas

Situated 11 km from Sanchi, Murelkhurd is a vast settlement of 37 stupas and two Buddhist temples. One temple contains a Buddha image. Discovered in the 19th century by Major Cunningham, the site revealed relic caskets of prominent Buddhist teachers and senior disciples, highlighting its importance as a monastic centre.

Andher - Hilltop Stupas with a View

About 19 km from Sanchi in Raisen district, the Andher site comprises six stupas perched atop a hill, overlooking the Murelkhurd complex below. Though relic caskets were discovered here as well, they were found empty - adding an element of mystery to this tranquil hilltop location.

Sonari - An Astonishing Stupa Complex

Located 25 km from Sanchi, Sonari features two large and five smaller stupas. Discovered in 1850, the site yielded relic boxes, one of which was exquisitely ornate and is now housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

Saru Maru - Ashoka's Brief Sojourn

Around 80 km from Bhopal and 52 km from the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Saru Maru is a monastic complex of caves and stupas. The natural caves once sheltered Buddhist monks and still bear inscriptions and drawings. Notably, inscriptions by Emperor Ashoka mention his visit and a brief stay here with his consort.

Deorkothar - A Former Trade and Monastic Hub

Located in Rewa district, Deorkothar is a striking example of Buddhist architecture with over 40 stupa remains. An inscribed pillar references Acharya Dharmadeo and his three disciples - Uttarmitra, Bhadra, and Upaska - believed to have resided here. Discoveries such as terracotta toys, beads, and ornaments suggest the site was once a thriving centre of trade. Nearby rock paintings further enrich its historical narrative.

Stay tuned for more such travel inspirations - quiet, meaningful, and deeply rooted in history.