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The stupa in Sanchi (located in Central India) is the original stupa. First constructed by the Mauryan Emperor, Ashoka, it served as the prototype for all others that followed, both in India and throughout Asia (see our map of key stupa sites throughout Asia).
As Buddhism migrated out of India, it followed two routes, which can be traced, stylistically, through stupa architecture: 1) a sea route to Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia; and 2) a land route following the Silk Road to China and Japan, through which it also became known as a pagoda. This Approach Guide will be useful when visiting any Buddhist religious site, however, we have listed the areas that we highlight as having the most quintessential examples of religious architecture as it pertains to the Buddhist tradition (see our custom map). This list includes many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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