Bharhut, a small village in the Satna district of Madhya Pradesh, is home to one of the most significant relics of early Buddhist art and architecture—the Bharhut Stupa. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, this ancient stupa provides a fascinating insight into the early phase of Indian Buddhist art. What makes Bharhut stand out among other Buddhist sites is the intricate relief panels with Brahmi script, labeling each narrative.
Click here to know about the beautiful temples of Khajuraho.
The stupa is believed to have been initially constructed under the patronage of Maurya King Ashoka and later developed during the Shunga dynasty, showcasing both Indian and foreign influences in its design. The major donor mentioned in the inscriptions is King Dhanabhuti, whose contributions significantly shaped the site’s development. Though most of the architectural fragments from Bharhut have been relocated to the Indian Museum in Kolkata, the site still holds immense historical and cultural importance.
Baba Allauddin Khan’s House. Click here for details.
History of Bharhut Stupa
The history of the Bharhut Stupa spans centuries, reflecting a blend of Buddhist devotion and architectural excellence. The stupa is thought to have been first commissioned by Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, though many of its artistic embellishments were added later during the Shunga dynasty, particularly between 125–and 100 BCE. The Bharhut sculptures represent one of the earliest forms of Indian and Buddhist art, slightly later than the renowned Ashokan monuments and Sanchi Stupa No.2.
Read More: Dharkundi Ashram Satna.
The stupa remained a prominent Buddhist center until the 12th century, during which time additional constructions were made, such as a Buddhist temple built around 1100 AD. Notable Sanskrit inscriptions were also discovered at the site, reflecting its significance even during the later period of Indian Buddhism.
Dream World Water Park and Resort Satna. Click here for details
Architecture and Sculptural Highlights
The architectural design of Bharhut Stupa is notable for its large stone railings and gateways (toranas). These elements follow a traditional Buddhist style, much like the well-known stupas at Sanchi and Amaravati, with slight regional variations. The railing was adorned with a series of intricately carved medallions and panels that depict Jataka tales (stories from the previous lives of Buddha), Yakshas and Yakshinis (nature spirits), and symbolic representations of the Buddha.
Click here to read about Parasmaniya Hill and Waterfall
Railings and Gateways:
The railings, constructed between 125–and 100 BCE, were the first major architectural components of the stupa. They featured detailed carvings and inscriptions that label the scenes depicted. The gateways were constructed slightly later, around 100–75 BCE, and are noted for their artistic finesse. One of the most intriguing aspects of Bharhut is the presence of mason marks in both Kharosthi and Brahmi scripts on the sculptural elements, indicating that the builders came from various regions, possibly Gandhara in the northwest.
Golamath Temple Maihar, Click here for details
Inscriptions:
The inscriptions found at Bharhut are critical in understanding the socio-religious landscape of ancient India. They mention donors from various parts of India, highlighting the widespread influence of Buddhism during this period. Additionally, the inscriptions provide invaluable insights into the iconography and narrative structure of early Buddhist art.
hri Kamtanath Temple Chitrakoot Dham. Click here to read more.
Dhanabhuti Inscription:
One of the most famous inscriptions at the stupa is attributed to Vatsiputra Dhanabhuti, a local ruler who contributed significantly to the construction of the stupa’s torana. The Dhanabhuti inscription mentions the completion of the gateway during the rule of the Sugas or Sughanas (often identified with the Shungas), but Dhanabhuti himself was likely not part of the Shunga dynasty, suggesting the influence of neighboring regions in the development of the stupa.
Click here to read more about Ramvan Satna
Artistic Style and Foreign Influence
Bharhut’s artistic style is often considered more provincial compared to Sanchi and Amaravati, yet it remains significant due to its detailed narrative carvings and early use of Brahmi script. Interestingly, the gateways exhibit artistic elements influenced by Hellenistic, Persian, and Gandharan traditions. The fluted bell-shaped capitals and palmette motifs used in the stupa’s design bear strong foreign influence, suggesting cultural exchange during this period.
Neelkanth Temple and Ashram. Click here to read more
Despite these foreign elements, the Bharhut sculptures retain a distinctly Indian character, especially in the portrayal of figures dressed in traditional Indian attire such as the dhoti. The Buddha, in accordance with early aniconic traditions, is represented through symbols like the Bodhi tree, empty seat, footprints, and the Dharma wheel, rather than in human form.
Shabri Waterfall (Tulsi Waterfall) Chitrakoot. Click to read more
Excavation and Relocation
The site of Bharhut was first excavated by British archaeologist Alexander Cunningham in 1873, with further excavations carried out by his assistant, Joseph David Beglar. During these excavations, several important artifacts were uncovered, including railings, medallions, and inscriptions. Much of the architectural remains, including the Torana gateways, were removed and reassembled in the Indian Museum in Kolkata, where they remain on display today.
If you want to read about Maihar Sharda Goddess temple please click here
Travel Information
How to Reach Bharhut Stupa:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Bharhut is Khajuraho Airport, about 160 km away, which connects to major Indian cities like Delhi and Varanasi.
- By Rail: Satna is the nearest railway station, approximately 21 km from Bharhut. Satna is a major railway junction and is well-connected to various parts of India.
- By Road: Bharhut is easily accessible via road from Satna, with regular bus and taxi services available.
Tons Waterfall Rewa. Click to read more
Best Time to Visit:
The ideal time to visit Bharhut is between October and March, as the weather during this period is pleasant for sightseeing.
Gaivinath Shiva Temple Satna. Click here for details
Visiting Hours:
The Bharhut site is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, since most of the sculptures are now housed in the Indian Museum, a visit to Kolkata may also be necessary to view the most important relics.
Click here to read about Keoti Waterfall Rewa.
Entry Fee:
There is no entry fee for visiting the site, but it is recommended to visit with a local guide for a comprehensive understanding of the history and significance of the remains.
Beautiful Panni Khoh Waterfall Maihar. Click here to read more
Address and Google map of Bharhut Stupa Satna
Address: Bharhut stupa, Bharhut village, Satna 485001
chhapurti Temple Kjs Cement Plant, Maihar. Click here for details
Images of Bharhut Stupa Satna
About Ujjain Mahakaleshwar Click Here
Other places to visit are Bharhut Stupa Satna.
- Bahuti Waterfall
- White Tiger Safari, Mukundpur
- Deur Kothar Buddhist Stupa
- Chirahula Hanuman Mandir
- Purwa Falls
- Rewa Fort
- Rani Talab(Rani Pond)
- Paawan Ghinauchi Dham
- Govindgarh Palace
- Tons Waterfall, Sirmaur, Rewa.
- Ramvan Temple Satna
- Birsinghpur Gaivinath Temple
- Sphatik Shila Chitrakoot
- Bharat Kup Chitrakoot
- Ganesh Bagh Chitrakoot
- Marpha Chitrakoot
- Dream World Water Park & Resort Satna
- Chachai Waterfall Sirmour
- Sri Kamadgiri Parvatam Chitrakoot
- Ramghat Chitrakoot
- Gupt Godavari Chitrakoot
- Unchehara Kila Satna
- Rani Mahal Satna
- Kalinjar Fort Banda
- Sharda mata temple Maihar
- Badi Kher Mai Temple Maihar
- Bada Akhada Mandir Maihar
- Panni Koh Waterfall Maihar
- Neelkanth Temple and Ashram Maihar
- Lalitamba Shakti Peeth Maihar
- Gola Math temple Maihar, katni
Click for Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple details.
2
20
20
