Sripur Is The One Of The Richest Archaeological Sites In India

An Ayurveda treatment centre, underground granary market and a sixth century 'Ayurvedic Snaan Kund' (an ancient spa), puts Sirpur in the list of the richest archaeological sites in India.

This quaint town is one of India's most sought after archaeological wonder and is often described as a museum under the open sky, this peaceful town is situated on the banks of Mahanadi river. Unmatched stone carvings, along with 22 Shiva temples, four Vishnu temples, 10 Buddha Viharas, three Jain Viharas, an Ayurveda treatment centre, underground granary market and a sixth century 'Ayurvedic Snaan Kund' (an ancient spa), puts Sirpur in the list of the richest archaeological sites in India.

The modern Sirpur, which contains the remains of the ancient and medieval Buddhist era, is one of the most treasured places for Buddhists. Among the numerous temples and Buddhist monasteries (viharas), the most notable are the Lakshman Temple (one of the finest brick temples), Gandheshwar Temple, Anandprabhu Kutir Vihara and Swastika Vihara.

The recently excavated Tivaradeva Mahavihara is, however, the most stunning of all. The sanctum of the vihara houses a sculpture of the Lord Buddha in the "Bhumisparsh mudra". The Buddhist monasteries at Sirpur are said to be largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in India.

Once you've had your historic fill, make your way to the highly acclaimed Sirpur National Dance and Music Festival, organised every year in the month of January by Chhattisgarh Tourism Board in order to promote the Buddhist sites of Sirpur. It is a rare confluence of art and culture aimed at creating international cultural amity and brotherhood and showcases the best proponents of Chhattisgarh's traditional music and dance forms including the Pandvani, the Panthi, the Raut Nacha, the Karma, the Saila and the Gedi dance (in which wooden sticks and poles are used as props).

Getting there: Sirpur is 80 km from Raipur (1 hour 30 minutes by road.) Raipur is well connected via rail, road and air with major cities in the country.

When to go: During the Sirpur National Dance and Music Festival which takes place in the month of January each year.