Sanchi Stupa No. 3
Stupa No. 3 is highly revered as it contained the sacred corporeal relics of the Buddha's two foremost and most celebrated disciples, Sariputta (or Sariputra) and Maha Moggallana (or Maudgalyayana), which were discovered in a relic chamber in 1851 by Alexander Cunningham: Although smaller than Stup a 1, it features a single elaborately carved ceremonial gateway (Torana), located on the South side, which is stylistically similar to the Toranas of the Great Stupa and also dates to the 1st century BCE.: This stupa emphasizes the importance of the Sangha (monastic community) in early Buddhism and its spiritual significance rivals that of Stupa 1 for many devout Buddhists.: The stupa's relics are now housed and venerated in the modern Chetiyagiri Vihara in Sanchi (and parts in London's Victoria and Albert Museum), but its original location remains a powerful focal point.:
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
1 - 1.
5 Hours:Place Type:
Buddhist Pilgrimage Site, HiEntry Fees:
Included in Main Ticket: Entry to Stupa No. 3 is covered by the general admission ticket for the Sanchi Ruins complex: Rs.40 for Indians and Rs.600 for foreigners. :
Special Event Fee: While the stupa itself is included, the modern Chetiyagiri ...Included in Main Ticket: Entry to Stupa No. 3 is covered by the general admission ticket for the Sanchi Ruins complex: Rs.40 for Indians and Rs.600 for foreigners. :
Special Event Fee: While the stupa itself is included, the modern Chetiyagiri Vihara may have separate or donation-based entry during the annual November relic display festival. :Timing:
Sunrise to Sunset: The same opening and closing hours apply as for the rest of the archaeological site, generally 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. :
Ideal Visit Time (Quiet Time): Visit mid-morning or late afternoon, as its proximity to Stupa 1 means it ...Sunrise to Sunset: The same opening and closing hours apply as for the rest of the archaeological site, generally 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. :
Ideal Visit Time (Quiet Time): Visit mid-morning or late afternoon, as its proximity to Stupa 1 means it often gets the same crowds; however, its single gateway attracts fewer long-term visitors, allowing for a more focused and reflective visit at any time. :Special Events:
Chetiyagiri Vihara Festival: The most direct and important special event linked to this stupa is the annual festival at the modern Chetiyagiri Vihara in November, during which the relics of Sariputta and Moggallana are displayed for public veneration, transforming Sanchi in...Chetiyagiri Vihara Festival: The most direct and important special event linked to this stupa is the annual festival at the modern Chetiyagiri Vihara in November, during which the relics of Sariputta and Moggallana are displayed for public veneration, transforming Sanchi into a major international pilgrimage destination for a few days. :Best Photo Spots:
The Southern Torana's Full View: Capture the entire structure of the beautiful Southern Gateway with the dome of the stupa in the background, ideally with morning or afternoon light hitting the intricate carvings. :
Torana Close-ups: Focus o...The Southern Torana's Full View: Capture the entire structure of the beautiful Southern Gateway with the dome of the stupa in the background, ideally with morning or afternoon light hitting the intricate carvings. :
Torana Close-ups: Focus on the details of the carvings, particularly the Chaddanta Jataka scene on the top architrave, which is distinct from the carvings on Stupa 1. :
Stupa 1 and Stupa 3 in Frame: The spatial proximity allows for excellent composition shots that include both the Great Stupa and Stupa 3 together, showing the relationship between the two main reliquary monuments. :Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Ponder the Disciples' History: Take time to reflect on the historical importance of the two chief disciples and the spiritual weight of the relics once enshrined there, which shaped the Sangha and the spread of Buddhism. :
Examine the Southern Gateway: Study the lone Torana intensely, focusing on the narrative panels that tell the Jataka tales and the scenes from the Buddha's life, noting its stylistic similarity and chronological link to Stupa 1's gateways. :
Circumambulation: Perform the ritual clockwise circumambulation (Pradakshinapatha) around the stupa's base, participating in the traditional act of veneration. :
Visit Chetiyagiri Vihara: Extend the visit to the nearby modern Chetiyagiri Vihara (especially in November) to see the actual relics, which serves a...Ponder the Disciples' History: Take time to reflect on the historical importance of the two chief disciples and the spiritual weight of the relics once enshrined there, which shaped the Sangha and the spread of Buddhism. :
Examine the Southern Gateway: Study the lone Torana intensely, focusing on the narrative panels that tell the Jataka tales and the scenes from the Buddha's life, noting its stylistic similarity and chronological link to Stupa 1's gateways. :
Circumambulation: Perform the ritual clockwise circumambulation (Pradakshinapatha) around the stupa's base, participating in the traditional act of veneration. :
Visit Chetiyagiri Vihara: Extend the visit to the nearby modern Chetiyagiri Vihara (especially in November) to see the actual relics, which serves as a powerful connection between the ancient monument and current religious practice. :
Compare Structure Sizes: Visually compare the size and architectural complexity of Stupa 3 with the Great Stupa nearby, helping to understand the hierarchy and different functions of the monuments on the hill. :
Photography: Focus on capturing the beautiful architrave and pillar carvings of the single Torana, especially the sculpted images of the Yakshinis (female nature spirits) that often adorn the gateways. :
Information
-
Why Famous:
The Disciples' Relics: Its primary fame stems from the discovery of the relics of the Buddha's two chief disciples, Sariputta and Maha Moggallana, making it highly significant for the international Buddhist community. :
South Torana Carving:...The Disciples' Relics: Its primary fame stems from the discovery of the relics of the Buddha's two chief disciples, Sariputta and Maha Moggallana, making it highly significant for the international Buddhist community. :
South Torana Carving: The artistic quality of its sole surviving Torana is considered excellent, contributing valuable evidence to the study of early Buddhist sculptural art. :
Annual Pilgrimage: The annual display of the relics at the modern Chetiyagiri Vihara draws major pilgrimages, linking this historical site directly to a vibrant, present-day religious tradition. : -
Architecture:
Single Torana: The main architectural feature is the single Southern Gateway, which is beautifully carved and features a scene on its top architrave depicting the Chaddanta Jataka (the six-tusked elephant story), showcasing the developed narrative style of the Satavahana pe...Single Torana: The main architectural feature is the single Southern Gateway, which is beautifully carved and features a scene on its top architrave depicting the Chaddanta Jataka (the six-tusked elephant story), showcasing the developed narrative style of the Satavahana period. :
Dome and Relic Chamber: The hemispherical dome (anda), though smaller (approx. 15 meters in diameter), is similar in form to Stupa 1, featuring a Harmika and a triple Chatra on top. :
Relic Caskets: The original discovery revealed two stone caskets containing the relics of the chief disciples, alongside various precious materials, placed deep within the core of the structure, highlighting the stupa's function as a reliquary. :
Railing: The stupa is surrounded by a plain stone railing (vedika), contrasting with the highly decorated railing of Stupa 2 and the non-decorated one of Stupa 1's exterior. : -
How To Reach:
Short Walk from Stupa 1: Stupa No. 3 is easily reached by a short, flat walk along a paved path from the Great Stupa (No. 1), located right on the main hill-top plateau area. :
Internal Accessibility: It is one of the most accessible structures on the hill, requir...Short Walk from Stupa 1: Stupa No. 3 is easily reached by a short, flat walk along a paved path from the Great Stupa (No. 1), located right on the main hill-top plateau area. :
Internal Accessibility: It is one of the most accessible structures on the hill, requiring no steep climbs or significant detours from the central area of the ruins. :
Local Transport: All local transport options (taxi, auto-rickshaw) from the town will drop visitors at the main entrance, making the final walk to Stupa 3 minimal. : -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
November Festival: The absolute best time for a pilgrim is during the November festival, even though the site is crowded, to participate in the spiritual activities connected to the relics, connecting the ancient past with the present. :
Clear W...November Festival: The absolute best time for a pilgrim is during the November festival, even though the site is crowded, to participate in the spiritual activities connected to the relics, connecting the ancient past with the present. :
Clear Winter Days: For general tourism and photography, a clear winter day is ideal for the light conditions on the gateway carvings and the comfortable temperature for walking the site. : -
Near Tourist Places:
Vidisha (10 KMS - Historical/Ancient City): Udayagiri Caves (13 KMS - Gupta period rock-cut caves): Bhimbetka Rock Shelters (85 KMS - UNESCO Site with pre-historic paintings): Bhojpur Temple (65 KMS - Massive unfinished Shiva Temple): Islamnagar Fort (50 KMS - Historical Afghan fort ruins): Bhopal (46 KMS - Capital city with lakes and museums):
Satdhara Stupas (9 KMS - Group of minor Stupas):
Sonari Stupas (10 KMS - Other Buddhist ruins):
GyarasPUR (36 KMS - Ancient temple complex): Chetiyagiri Vihara (Near Site - Modern Buddhist monastery):
Tourism Tips
-
Spiritual Focus: Given the profound spiritual importance of the relics it contained, approach this stupa with respect and a meditative mindset, especially if you are a Buddhist pilgrim. :
Learn the Relics Story: Before visiting, read up on t...Spiritual Focus: Given the profound spiritual importance of the relics it contained, approach this stupa with respect and a meditative mindset, especially if you are a Buddhist pilgrim. :
Learn the Relics Story: Before visiting, read up on the story of Sariputta and Maha Moggallana and the discovery of their relics by Cunningham to fully appreciate the significance of this particular stupa. :
Combined Trip: Plan to visit the modern Chetiyagiri Vihara after seeing the ancient stupa to complete the historical and spiritual journey of the relics. :
Reviews
FAQs
Sanchi Itineray And Cost:-
Sanchi Stupa No. 3 Tourism:-
Other Places In Sanchi :-
Other States In India :-
Information about New and Updated Locations() of Madhya Pradesh Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
Near Places
Mata Mandir
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Sanchi Museum
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
The Great Bowl
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Turtle Rock
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Western Gateway
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Zoo Rock
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities