Chaukhandi Stupa, Sarnath, India

Chaukhandi Stupa, Isipathana Deer Park, Sarnath.


The Chaukhandi Stupa marks the probable spot where Buddha met his five ascetic companions after enlightenment. It is located in Sarnath, India. It was originally a terraced temple during the Gupta period (4th to 6th Centuries). However in 1588 A.D., Govardhan, the son of Raja Todarmal, built an octagonal tower to commemorate the visit of Emperor Humayun, the father of Emperor Akbar, as recorded in Arabic in a stone tablet above the doorway on the north side. Govardhan later went on to become the Governor under Akbar's rule.

The Chaukhandi Stupa was mentioned in the chronicles of Hiuen Tsiang, the celebrated Chinese traveller of the 7th century AD. Archaeological excavations conducted in 1835 and 1904-05 brought to light this 93ft high brick stupa. It is laid in mud mortar with three diminishing square terraces, each about 12ft high and 12ft broad. Each terrace is supported by an outer and inner wall with a number of cross walls to strengthen the structure. The outer walls of the terraces are ornamented with a series of niches separated by pilasters.

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