Thotlakonda Buddhist Site: Ancient History, Monsoon Impact & Latest Developments

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Thotlakonda Buddhist Site: Ancient History, Monsoon Impact & Latest Developments [This article was originally published in 2020 and fully updated in January 2026 for accuracy and completeness.] Introduction Nestled on a scenic hilltop overlooking the Bay of Bengal, the Thotlakonda Buddhist Site in Andhra Pradesh is a remarkable testament to India’s early Buddhist heritage. With origins dating back almost two thousand years, this ancient monastic complex provides valuable insights into the spiritual, cultural, and maritime networks that shaped the region. While the site has survived centuries of natural wear, recent monsoon events and preservation challenges highlight the delicate balance between heritage conservation and environmental forces. This article presents a comprehensive overview of Thotlakonda: its historical significance, architectural features, the effects of heavy rainfall, ongoing restoration efforts, and recent developments that underscore its relevance today. H...
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Bhmala Buddhist complex in pakistan

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https://ancientbuddha91.blogspot.com
The bhamala Buddhist archelogy complexsite  close to khanpur dam at the head of haro valley. The stupa and the monastery date back to 2nd century. They are uniquely significant in gandhara civilization. The largest surviving example particular cross like stupa that resembles to the pyramids. The site of the discovery of the world’s oldest ‘Maha Pari Nirvana’ statue which depicts the death of Buddha. 
                                  The statue which was discovered in 2016, is about 1700 years and 48 feet long. Noted for this archeological style the bhamala complex is said to belong to 2nd to 5th century BCE.The main stupa of Bhamala is unique, with a cruciform plan consisting of a tall square base for the dome above which offset projections for the steps can be seen on all four sides. 
https://ancientbuddha91.blogspot.com
https://ancientbuddha91.blogspot.comBuddhism flourished in what is now Pakistan some 2,300 years ago, after it took route under Mauryan emperor Ashoka in Takashila (now Taxila), Gandhara art is credited with creating the first carved image of Buddha in human form, most of which are still intact at monasteries and stupas such as Bhamala
https://ancientbuddha91.blogspot.com
A small stupa adorned with small Buddha statue.

According to the current understandings, the shape of main stupa is cruciform and it is the biggest surviving example of this shape in Taxila and Gandhara region. The stupa is cross shaped and looks like an Aztec Pyramid. There are about nineteen but small votive stupas in courtyard surrounding the main stupa.

It nominated as UNESCO world heritage site. This site is under control of Pakistan government.


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