Sanchi Stupas

You will be picked up from your hotel in Bhopal and driven to the town of Sanchi in the Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. Visit the Great Stupa here, a large hemispherical structure that contains the relics of the Buddha. The Stupa was commissioned in the 3rd century B.C. by Emperor Ashoka who was dismayed at the huge loss of life in his military campaigns and took solace in Buddhism. The Stupa was built to preserve and spread the Buddhist philosophy.  The huge hemispherical dome of the Stupa is 54 feet high and is surrounded by a stone balustrade. Four ornamental gateways facing the four directions of the universe lead to the central dome. A large sandstone pillar stands on the grounds of the complex. The edict of Emperor Ashoka is engraved on it in the ancient Brahmi script. After the visit to the Stupa, stop for lunch (own expense) at a local restaurant.

Udayeshwara Temple

Next visit the nearby Udayeshwara temple. This 11th century temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. The temple is built of sandstone and is enclosed with a dwarf compound wall, the outer face of which is richly carved. Beautiful carvings can also be seen on the main platform of the temple. Two inscriptions engraved on the temple record the construction of temple during the reign of the Paramara King Udayaditya, between 1059 to 1080 A.D. At the end of the tour, you will be driven back to Bhopal and dropped off at your hotel.