Sirpur Chhattisgarh - The World Largest Buddhist Site

Sirpur Chhattisgarh

Sirpur is a historical town on the bank of river Mahanadi in Mahasmund district 85 km away from Raipur, Chhattisgarh State, India The antiquity of Buddhism in Sirpur and Chhattisgarh State dates back to the lifetime of Buddha itself. Historical, Monumental and Teztual evidence of Buddhist era of Sirpur. Sirpur was an important centre of Buddhism from 6th to 10th century A.D. and was visited by 01st Chinese Traveller Hieun Tsang, in 7th century Chinese pilgrim and Scholar.

Recent excavations have uncovered 12 Buddhist Monasteries, one Jain Temple, monolithic statues of Buddha and Mahavira, 22 Shiva Temples, five Vishnu Temples, an Ayurveda treatment centre, an underground granary market and a bath (snaan kund) (Snankund) famous trading center for many years. A market place is discovered spread over 1 Km area. Mastery of creating metal idols in 7th -8th century AD. These metal idols have been exhibited in Germany, England and America dating back 1,200-1,500 years. There are plenty of other unnamed Buddhist and Jaina viharas, Shiva temples as well as a large Buddhist Stupa. 

Walk Around Sirpur Heritage Site

Buddha Vihara - Sirpur

Popularly known as the Sirpur Buddha Vihara, this is an 8th-century Buddhist temple built by Bhikshu Anand Prabhu. One of the most visited Buddhist pilgrims, this place has attracted many historians even who are studying and joining the dots of the Buddhism timeline. This is a place where you can witness architectural wonders. The beautiful carvings here depict plenty of scenes from Buddha’s life, including love, matrimony, friendship and other ties. This emphasis confirms the influence of Buddhism in Sirpur.

Teevardev - Sirpur 

Teevardev is a Buddhist monastery that had Buddhist artworks, statues and Hindu themes such as tales of Panchatantra. This monastery having a perfect blend of Hindu and Buddhist architectural themes. A beautiful meeting of the Buddhist and Hindu architecture, this monastery is believed to be built by Shaiva Khan and his Buddhist Queen. 

Surang Tila - Sirpur 

Surang Tila is definitely the largest temple complex in Sirpur. The remarkable aspects of this temple complex consist of the white stone steps that lead to 30 feet high pillared terrace. The terrace which served as the Mandapa connects to 5 main Sanctums. While 3 sanctums have (2 grey and 1 black) granite Shivalingas, the other two belong to Lord Vishnu. There are also places of residence for the priests and monks present at the Surang Tila complex. Now, before the temple was excavated, this place used to have a mound with tunnels known as (Surang) used by the locals for commutation to each others. The enormous temple of Surang Tila was unearthed in 2005-06. The temple premises covers a vast area and the main temple stands tall, elevated by a flight of 37 steep limestone steps.

ASI Museum 

This museum having rich collection of artifacts from the excavations conducted during 1950s and 2000s. The origin of many excavated ruins could not be traced, so they found a place in this museum. The artifacts date between 6th and 12th centuries and provide a glimpse into the life and times of those days. The ASI museum is situated in the Lakshman Temple premises.

Lakshmana Temple - Sirpur

Sirpur is referred to as the pilgrimage site for the people who follow Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism; Lakshman Temple is one of the most popular spots in this village, and the architecture of this temple has been a constant inspiration for many architects. The pillars of the Lakhsman Temple carry elaborate inscriptions informing you about the life of common people in the 7th century.

Rama Temple - Sirpur 

This temple is one of the oldest ones and is believed to be dedicated to Ram and Lakshman. The popular attraction of this temple is the star-shaped platform. This Jagati (platform) is believed to be the earliest example of such an architecture in India. A popular attraction, it has a star-shaped platform called Jagati and the place is situated near the Lakshmana Temple.

How to Reach Sirpur

By Air: Nearest domestic airport is Raipur which is (85 km) away from Sirpur. Connected with Mumbai, Delhi, Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Ranchi, Vishakhapatnam and Chennai Airport.

By Rail: Raipur is the nearest Railway station on the Mumbai - Kolkata main line Mahasamund is the nearest railway station on the Raipur - Waltair line.

By Road: Sirpur is well linked to Raipur having regular buses from Raipur and Mahasamund to Sirpur. Taxis are available at Raipur and Mahasamund.