The Grand Stupas which is the most famous site to visit in Sanchi was built by famous Emperor Ashoka. Stupa is a focal point of a 91 –meter-high turf covered and tree-dotted hill and marks an important stage in the evolution of Indian architecture. The great Stupa is 36.5 meters in diameter and rises almost 16.5 meters high. A balustrade encircles the entire structure and provides incarnations as Bodhisattva have provided the principal inspiration for the artistes.
The Grand Stupas are located on the Sanchi Hill which goes up in the shelves and are the greatest fascination of the place for the visitors. Famous for its amazing architectural beauty, this is the oldest stone structure in India. It is also a world heritage site by UNSESCO and the site is well maintained and is open to public viewing from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. It takes about an hour and a half for a non-research visit of the site. There are number of guides available to let you explore and understand about the place, with historical background. Photography is allowed and audio guides are available in numbers.
This great piece of architecture was overseen by the wife of Emperor Ashoka- Devi who was the daughter of a merchant of VIsdisha. Sanchi was also her birthplace as well as the venue of her and Ashoka’s wedding. Sanchi is a place of great historic importance and many people from across the globe come to explore the heritage city. There many other places also famous but the city is mainly known for the Grand Stupas.