Sanchi, renowned as a Buddhist site is located on an isolated hill about 46kms northeast of Bhopal. The site houses a group of Buddhist stupas, monasteries, Gupta temples, chaityas and pillars, dating from the 3rd century BC to the12th century AD. Due of its archaeological and historical importance, Sanchi was declared as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in the year 1989. The major attractions of Sanchi is the 'Great Stupa' (the first and the oldest Buddhist Stupa in the world), measuring 36.5 meters in diameter and 16.4 meters in height. The originally structure that was built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, was rebuilt in its present form, in the middle of the 2nd century BC. 

An archaeological museum, located within the premises displays fine collection of artifacts excavated from nearby locations. The exhibits here includes lion capital of the Ashokan pillar and metal objects used by the monks, a yakshi (maiden) hanging from a mango tree, and a beautiful Buddha figure in red sandstone discovered during the excavations at Sanchi, etc. The museum opens from 10 am to 5 pm daily except Fridays. Entry Fee: Rs. 10 per head for the citizens of India and free for children up to 15 years of age. Charges for foreigners are US $5.  

Buddha Purnima is observed at Sanchi with great enthusiasm to commemorate the triple anniversary of Gautama Buddha's birth, enlightenment and parinirvana.