Elephant Stupa
The Elephant Stupa, officially known as Stupa No. 2, is a remarkable monument located on a lower terrace of the Sanchi hill. Unlike the Great Stupa, this structure is famous for its exquisitely carved ground balustrade rather than decorated gateways. It is often referred to by locals and tourists f or its frequent depictions of elephants among its many reliefs. Built during the Shunga period (2nd Century BCE), it houses the relics of several Buddhist masters. The carvings here are among the oldest examples of figurative art in India, depicting a world where humans, animals, and nature exist in harmony. You will find carvings of lotuses, horses, and mythical creatures, but the majestic elephant figures are particularly striking. The location of this stupa offers a quieter, more meditative experience compared to the busier main complex. It is a vital link in the evolution of Buddhist architecture, showing the transition from wood-inspired designs to permanent stone carvings. The intricate details on the medallions reflect the high level of craftsmanship achieved by ancient Indian artisans.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 1. 5 HoursPlace Type:
Religious Site / Buddhist MonumentEntry Fees:
Access is included in the Sanchi entry ticket: Rs.40 for Indians and Rs.600 for foreigners.
Digital Payment: Using digital payment at the gate often provides a small discount. ...Access is included in the Sanchi entry ticket: Rs.40 for Indians and Rs.600 for foreigners.
Digital Payment: Using digital payment at the gate often provides a small discount.Special Events:
The Chethiyagiri Vihara Festival in late November attracts thousands of monks.
Rituals: During this time, the relics housed in the nearby vihara are brought out for public viewing. ...The Chethiyagiri Vihara Festival in late November attracts thousands of monks.
Rituals: During this time, the relics housed in the nearby vihara are brought out for public viewing.Best Photo Spots:
The western side of the railing during sunset provides dramatic shadows.
Detail Shots: Use a macro lens to capture the texture of the ancient stone medallions. ...The western side of the railing during sunset provides dramatic shadows.
Detail Shots: Use a macro lens to capture the texture of the ancient stone medallions.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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There are several ways to experience the spiritual and artistic depth of the Elephant Stupa.
Circumambulation: Perform the traditional "Pradakshina" around the carved balustrade to appreciate every medallion.
Art History Study: Compare the carvings here with those on the Great Stupa to see the stylistic evolution.
Photography: Capture the intricate animal motifs, especially the elephants, which give the stupa its nickname.
Scenic Viewing: Enjoy the panoramic views of the Betwa River valley from this lower terrace.
Meditation: Sit on the stone steps nearby for a moment of quiet reflection away from the main crowds.
Nature Walk: Take the stone path that leads down the hill from the Great ...
Information
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Why Famous:
It is famous for being the oldest stupa at Sanchi with carved ground railings.
Artistic Detail: The site is renowned for the Shunga style of art, which is more robust and folk-oriented than the later Satavahana carvings. ...It is famous for being the oldest stupa at Sanchi with carved ground railings.
Artistic Detail: The site is renowned for the Shunga style of art, which is more robust and folk-oriented than the later Satavahana carvings. -
Architecture:
The stupa features a hemispherical dome (anda) surrounded by a stone railing (vedika).
Dimension: The dome has a diameter of about 14 meters and stands approximately 7 meters high. The railing consists of 88 posts decorated with over 400 medallions featuring uniqu...The stupa features a hemispherical dome (anda) surrounded by a stone railing (vedika).
Dimension: The dome has a diameter of about 14 meters and stands approximately 7 meters high. The railing consists of 88 posts decorated with over 400 medallions featuring unique carvings. -
How To Reach:
Sanchi is easily reachable by train from Bhopal or Vidisha.
By Road: A well-maintained highway connects Sanchi to Bhopal (46 KM).
Local: From the Sanchi railway station, it is a short rickshaw ride to the hilltop entrance.
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Near Tourist Places:
Great Stupa (0. 3 KM), Sanchi Museum (0. 5 KM), Gupta Temple (0. 2 KM), Ashoka Pillar (0. 2 KM), Buddhist Vihara (0. 4 KM), Great Bowl (0. 3 KM), Vidisha (10 KM), Udayagiri (13 KM), Heliodorus Pillar (12 KM), Satdhara (9 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Hire a licensed ASI guide to understand the significance of the 10 Buddhist masters buried here.
Footwear: You may need to remove shoes to climb certain platforms.
Connectivity: Mobile data works well on the hilltop.
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