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Amravati Stupa, Andhra Pradesh

The city of Amravati is situated in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It lies on the right bank of River Krishna, at a distance of approximately 65 km from Vijayawada. The erstwhile capital of Satavahana dynasty, it came under the influence of Buddhism through the Kushanas of Mathura. One of the major attractions of Amravati consists of the remains of a 2000-year-old Buddhist settlement, along with the great Buddhist stupa. There is also a temple dedicated to Lord Amaresvara in the city.

The Great Stupa of Amravati was constructed approximately 2000 years ago and stands taller than the stupa at Sanchi. Founded by an emissary of the great Emperor Ashoka, it is also known as the Mahastupa and Deepaladinne (the Mound of Lamps). The stupa is made of brick with a circular vedika and depicts Lord Buddha in a human form, subduing an elephant. It is adorned with 95 ft high platforms, protruding in four cardinal directions. Presently, Amravati stupa has been kept at the Government Museum of Chennai.

Amravati
The capital of later Satvahana rulers in South India in the pre medieval era, Amravati is situated on the right bank of the river Krishna in Andhra Pradesh. Amravati, which was also known as Amaresvaram, is a home to best known 2000 years old Buddhist relics, which make the place an important pilgrimage for the Buddhists. The place is also identified as Dhanyakataka by several scholars, who connects Amravati with the origin of many Tantric teachings especially, Kalchakra.

Location and Accessibility
Amravati can be reached by roadways as taxis and buses are available from Guntur(32 km away) and other places of the state to Amravati. The nearest railheads are at Guntur and Vijayawada. Both the railway stations are well connected with all the parts of Andhra Pradesh, Bangalore, Kolkata, Mumbai and New Delhi. If opting for airways, the nearest airport is at Vijayawada (82 km).

Best Time To Visit
October to February. It is advisable to avoid the summers due to extensive heat.
A visit to Amravati in January 2006 can be a dream come true for many as His Holiness the Dalai Lama has consented to bestow 13 day Kalchakra gathering in Amravati.

How to Reach Amravati

By Air
The airport nearest to Amravati is that of Vijayawada, situated at a distance of 65 km.

By Rail
The nearest railway station is in Guntur, approximately 32 km away.

By Road
Frequent bus and taxi services are available for Amravati, from Guntur and Vijayawada.