The Main Stupa
The Main Stupa is the most prominent and central structure within the ruins of the ancient Vikramshila University. It stands as a majestic testimony to the architectural and spiritual significance of the Mahavihara. The stupa is cruciform in shape, rising from a two-terraced base and is believed to have been a place of worship and meditation. The main stupa is surrounded by a large number of votive stupas, each a miniature shrine, indicating the widespread devotion and ritualistic practices that were central to life at the monastery. The stupa's design, with its elaborate brickwork, reflects the architectural style of the Pala period. Inside the four chambers of the stupa, colossal stucco images of a seated Buddha were once placed, though they are now largely damaged. The presence of these images and the sheer scale of the structure point to its importance as a center for Buddhist devotion and learning. The stupa served as a focal point for the entire monastic complex, with its surrounding cells and structures for monks and scholars. It is not just a relic of the past but a powerful symbol of the intellectual and spiritual heritage of ancient India. The intricate details of the stupa, even in its ruined state, tell a story of a glorious past and the vibrant academic life that once thrived here. It is a place that inspires a sense of awe and reverence, making it the primary attraction for all visitors to Vikramshila.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 hourPlace Type:
Stupa, Religious Site, Historical LandmarkSpecial Events:
While there are no large-scale festivals or events celebrated at the archaeological site itself, it attracts a significant number of visitors, especially on Buddhist holidays and special days of significance to the followers of the Tantric school. The serene atmosphere of the place is particularly ...While there are no large-scale festivals or events celebrated at the archaeological site itself, it attracts a significant number of visitors, especially on Buddhist holidays and special days of significance to the followers of the Tantric school. The serene atmosphere of the place is particularly popular for meditation and silent reflection by visiting monks and devotees.Best Photo Spots:
The best photo spots are from the central courtyard, capturing the entire grandeur of the Main Stupa. The cruciform shape of the stupa, with the surrounding ruins and the sky as a backdrop, offers unique angles. The intricate carvings and stucco images in the chambers also make for detailed and hi...The best photo spots are from the central courtyard, capturing the entire grandeur of the Main Stupa. The cruciform shape of the stupa, with the surrounding ruins and the sky as a backdrop, offers unique angles. The intricate carvings and stucco images in the chambers also make for detailed and historically rich photographs. Sunsets at the site are particularly beautiful for photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Visitors can walk around the stupa on the circumambulatory path, appreciating its unique cruciform design and intricate brickwork. You can also take time for quiet contemplation, imagining the Buddhist monks who once studied and meditated here. Exploring the surrounding votive stupas and a closer look at the stucco Buddha images in the four chambers is also highly recommended. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
The Main Stupa is famous as the central and most significant monument of the ancient Vikramshila University. Its cruciform shape, monumental size, and historical and religious importance as a site for Buddhist worship and meditation make it a prime attraction. It is a key piece of the puzzle that ...The Main Stupa is famous as the central and most significant monument of the ancient Vikramshila University. Its cruciform shape, monumental size, and historical and religious importance as a site for Buddhist worship and meditation make it a prime attraction. It is a key piece of the puzzle that helps visitors understand the grandeur and purpose of this ancient seat of learning. -
Architecture:
The Main Stupa is a two-terraced cruciform brick structure, laid in mud mortar. It stands approximately 15 meters high from the ground level. The lower terrace is about 2. 25 meters high, and the upper terrace is at a similar height. The stupa's plan is a cross with a circular base, showcasing th...The Main Stupa is a two-terraced cruciform brick structure, laid in mud mortar. It stands approximately 15 meters high from the ground level. The lower terrace is about 2. 25 meters high, and the upper terrace is at a similar height. The stupa's plan is a cross with a circular base, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the Pala artisans. The stupa is surrounded by a circumambulatory path, about 4. 5 meters wide on the lower terrace and 3 meters wide on the upper terrace. The architectural design is both aesthetic and functional, allowing for circumambulation and housing the stucco Buddha images. The height and area of the stupa contribute to its imposing presence, dominating the entire archaeological site. -
How To Reach:
The Main Stupa is located within the Vikramshila archaeological site in Antichak, which is about 38 km from Bhagalpur city. The nearest railway station is Kahalgaon, which is about 13 km away. From both Bhagalpur and Kahalgaon, you can easily hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or a local vehicle to reach...
Tourism Tips
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Since the site is an open-air archaeological complex, it's highly recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and carry a water bottle to stay hydrated. Hiring a government-approved guide at the entrance can be very insightful, as they can provide detailed historical and architectural ...
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Kesariya StupaKumhrar ParkRohtasgarh FortRuins of VikramshilaValmiki Tiger ReserveBio-Diversity ParkFanishwar Nath Renu JungleForbesganj Mela GroundJogbaniJokihat MosqueMaata Aasawar MandirRampur Over BridgeRaniganj Vriksh VatikaShiva MandirSultan PhokherBaba Bateshwarnath TempleBaithakji Hajipur Baraila Lake More PlacesNote:-
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