History of Chaukhandi Stupa
The history of the Chaukhandi Stupa is quite an interesting one. In fact, its historical significance is one of the primary reasons why this attraction is popular among tourists. It is widely believed that during the Gupta Period between the 4th century and the 6th century, the Chaukhandi Stupa was actually built as a terraced temple and not as the structure it is as of now. Most historians are of the belief that the renowned Emperor Ashoka built this square edifice.
Later, Prince Govardhan- son of the then reigning king, erected an octagonal Mughal tower surrounding the square edifice of the stupa and brought the structure to its present form. This was done in honour of the visit of Emperor Humayun- a mighty Mughal Emperor. However, few historians argue it was, in fact, Emperor Akbar who built the octagonal tower in 1585 to commemorate Emperor Humayun's visit to the shrine.
The city of Sarnath and the Chaukhandi Stupa play a significant role in the life of Lord Buddha. After the great Lord Buddha attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, he travelled to Sarnath. When he arrived at Sarnath, and precisely at the location where the Chaukhandi Stupa stands now, he met his five disciples who had gotten estranged before he went to Bodh Gaya.
Lord Gautam Buddha then went on to preach his first sermons after enlightenment to these companions at the Deer Park in Sarnath, setting in motion the Wheel of Dharma. The importance and historical significance are such that it never fails to evoke emotion and pure devotion among the Buddhist pilgrims that visit it every year.
Architecture of Chaukhandi Stupa
The structure of the Chaukhandi Stupa is mainly built of bricks and hence is quite fragile. This has led to the Archaeological Survey of India to take the matter into their hands and have taken over the responsibility of the care and maintenance of this majestic structure.
Named after its shape, the Chaukhandi Stupa is a square edifice which stands on a basement that consists of three terraces, each 12 feet broad and 12 feet high. The overall height of the structure is about 200 feet. The core of the structure is made of solid brickwork in clay mortar, and the terraces are supported on rows of hollow cells. Standing on a rectangular plinth and surrounded by a mighty octagonal tower on all sides, the Chuakhandi Stupa is undoubtedly a beautiful piece of work.
How to Reach Chaukhandi Stupa
Sarnath is a very popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. Hence, the facilities for commuting to Sarnath are also convenient and comfortable. At a distance of 13 km from Varanasi, it is a 20-minute drive by road. You can hire a taxi or an autorickshaw from any part of the city to reach Sarnath. You can opt for a 15-minute walk to Chaukhandi Stupa through the colourful city of Sarnath.
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Tips
1. Can be crowded during weekends. 2. Try your best to keep this place clean.
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