List Of Stupas Constructed By Ashoka The Great

Here is a list of notable stupas built or commissioned by Emperor Ashoka, who played a significant role in spreading Buddhism and constructing stupas across his empire:

1. Sanchi Stupa (Madhya Pradesh, India)

• Significance: One of the oldest and largest stupas in India, this stupa was commissioned by Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. It contains relics of the Buddha and is adorned with intricate carvings and gateways added in later centuries.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site

2. Dhamek Stupa (Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, India)

• Significance: Built by Ashoka at the site where Buddha gave his first sermon, marking the beginning of the spread of Buddhism. The stupa symbolizes the Dharma, or the teachings of the Buddha.
• Key Site: Sarnath is one of the four important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists.

3. Mahabodhi Stupa (Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India)

• Significance: While the current structure is a later addition, Ashoka is credited with constructing the original stupa and marking the location of the Buddha’s enlightenment. It is one of the holiest sites in Buddhism.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site

4. Kushinagar Stupa (Uttar Pradesh, India)

• Significance: Ashoka built a stupa in Kushinagar to commemorate the Buddha’s Parinirvana (final passing away). It is an important site for pilgrims, marking the Buddha’s death.

5. Ramagrama Stupa (Nepal)

• Significance: One of the original stupas containing Buddha’s relics. According to Buddhist tradition, Ashoka tried to relocate the relics from Ramagrama, but the local serpent king prevented him from doing so. It remains intact and untouched.

6. Bharhut Stupa (Madhya Pradesh, India)

• Significance: Ashoka is believed to have commissioned the construction of the Bharhut Stupa, which became known for its detailed stone railings and gateways adorned with Buddhist motifs. The stupa is now mostly in ruins, but the carvings have been preserved in museums.

7. Vaishali Stupa (Bihar, India)

• Significance: Ashoka built a stupa at Vaishali to enshrine relics of the Buddha. Vaishali is also significant as the place where Buddha gave his last sermon and announced his impending death.

8. Nalanda Stupa (Bihar, India)

• Significance: Ashoka is credited with establishing a stupa at Nalanda, a renowned ancient center of Buddhist learning. The site later developed into Nalanda University, one of the world’s oldest universities.

9. Piprahwa Stupa (Uttar Pradesh, India)

• Significance: Excavations revealed a casket believed to contain relics of Buddha at this site, which is thought to be one of the stupas constructed by Ashoka after redistributing the relics of Buddha across his empire.

10. Nigali Sagar Stupa (Nepal)

• Significance: Located in southern Nepal, Ashoka visited and expanded the stupa to honor the earlier Buddha, Kanakamuni. It contains an Ashokan pillar with inscriptions.

These stupas reflect Ashoka’s dedication to spreading Buddhism and preserving the relics of the Buddha. Many have been expanded or restored in later centuries, but their foundations are attributed to Ashoka’s initial efforts to establish Buddhism as a major spiritual tradition.