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Vaishya Tekri Ujjain: The Mysterious Ancient Stupa That May Be Larger Than Sanchi

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For nearly nine decades, a massive archaeological mound near Ujjain has remained only partially understood. Known as Vaishya Tekri , the site was excavated in 1938–39, when archaeologists identified the remains of an unusually large monument believed to be a Buddhist stupa. Now, after almost 90 years, the site has returned to the archaeological spotlight. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Madhya Pradesh government are pursuing renewed investigation and excavation at Vaishya Tekri. The most striking claim comes from the old excavation record: the monument was estimated to have a base of around 350 feet in diameter and a height of at least 100 feet . For comparison, the present Great Stupa at Sanchi is about 54 feet high. However, whether Vaishya Tekri was actually larger than Sanchi—and whether it was specifically built under Emperor Ashoka—still requires scientific verification.  What Is Vaishya Tekri? Vaishya Tekri is an ancient archaeological mound at Undasa in Ujj...

Takht-e Rostam Stupa: Afghanistan's Unique Rock-Cut Buddhist Masterpiece – Complete 2026 Guide

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Takht-e Rostam Stupa: Afghanistan's Unique Rock-Cut Buddhist Masterpiece – Complete 2026 Guide [Originally published on April 2020 and updated on January 20, 2026 with new information, 2026 travel guide, and latest preservation updates."] Afghanistan's ancient history is filled with layers of civilizations, and one of the most remarkable surviving examples of its Buddhist heritage is the Takht-e Rostam stupa and monastery complex in Samangan Province. This extraordinary rock-cut site, often called the "sunken stupa," stands as a testament to the spread of Buddhism along the Silk Road and remains one of the best-preserved pre-Islamic monuments in the country. Unlike many sites damaged or destroyed over centuries of conflict, Takht-e Rostam has endured remarkably well, thanks to its ingenious design carved directly into the bedrock. Location and How to Visit in 2026 The complex is located about 2-3 km southwest of Aybak (also known as Haibak), the capital of S...

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