Lifestyle Desk – Mauryan Empire is one of the oldest known dynasties in India and in the world. It is marked for its finest works of Indian art. The art and architecture were mainly during Ashoka’s reign who was one of the celebrated Indian rulers in his capital city Pataliputra, now known as Patna, the modern-day capital of Bihar.
Ashoka was a follower of Lord Buddha and followed his teachings, his pure dedication to Buddha can be seen in many stone stupas built in and around India. Several Mauryan architectural structures were built throughout the state of Bihar, which is appreciated by history lovers.
The stunning monuments from that era prove that people during that time were extremely artistic. You can explore some of the prominent ancient monuments from the Mauryan dynasty in Bihar, which are no less than a historical wonder.
3 Best Mauryan Architectural Heritage Bihar
Ashoka Pillar, Vaishali
Ashoka Pillar is in Vaishali, Bihar. There is not just one pillar instead, it has a series of monolithic columns, called the “Pillars of Ashoka”. On the top of the pillar, there is a life-like structure of a lion engraved which said that the lion’s face is in the direction of Lord Buddha’s last voyage. The pillar stands at a height of 40 to 50 feet. Also, you can explore a small tank called Ramkund, near the pillar.
Barabar Caves
Barabar Caves is a historical site located at Makhdumpur in the Jehanabad district of Bihar. There are a total of seven caves: four on Barabar Hill and three on Nagarjuna Hills and these caves are called the oldest-surviving rock-cut caves in India. The caves are the epitome of the unique skills that people have during that time.
Lauriya Nandangarh Stupa
Lauriya Nandangarh Stupa is a historic town in Bihar, set 20 km from Bettiah. The town has one of the Ashoka Pillars that comprises the six proclamations issued in 244 BC by Ashoka. It is said that it is one of the largest Stupas in India. People are not aware of this place but it is a must-visit place in Bihar, especially for history lovers.
Besides that, If you truly want to explore Mauryan architectural wonders then you can explore, Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh, Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh, and Ashoka Pillar, Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh.
