The Bavikonda Buddhist Complex is a significant archaeological site located on a hill about 16 km from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The name "Bavikonda," meaning "hill of wells" in Telugu, is derived from the numerous rock-hewn wells on the hilltop that were used for collecting rainwater. The monastic ruins date back to the 3rd century BCE and are considered an important historical site for understanding the early days of Buddhism, particularly the Theravada (Hinayana) school, in southern India.
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| Upsidal Stuba,Bavikonda, AP |
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| Ancient Monastery avikonda, AP |
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| Buddhist Monastic ruins dates back to 3rd centuary BCE facebook.com/ |
Archaeological and Historical Significance
Excavations at Bavikonda, which took place from the mid-1980s to the early 1990s, revealed a well-established monastic complex. The site contains remnants of a Mahastupa (main stupa), viharas (monastic cells), circular chaityas (prayer halls), and a large congregation hall. The architecture suggests that the complex was developed in three distinct stages.
Notable finds from the excavations include:
A piece of bone stored in an urn, believed to be one of the remains of the Buddha.
Inscriptions.
Pottery shards, tiles, and bricks.
Relic caskets.
Coins, including Roman silver coins and Satavahana lead coins, indicating the site's role in historical maritime trade.
A Dagoba, a type of stupa associated with the earthly remains of the Buddha.
The site's proximity to the coast and the discovery of foreign coins suggest that Bavikonda was an important center along ancient Buddhist trade routes, connecting it with other major centers like Thotlakonda and Pavurallakonda.
Conservation and Development Efforts
The Bavikonda Buddhist Complex, along with the nearby sites of Thotlakonda, Pavurallakonda, and Bojjannakonda, has been the subject of ongoing conservation and protection efforts. The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has consistently appealed to authorities to have these sites declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites to ensure better protection and a steady flow of funds for maintenance.
The site is part of the "Shalihundam-Thotlakonda-Bavikonda-Bojjanakonda-Amravati-Anupu" Buddhist Circuit, which is being developed under the central government's PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) and Swadesh Darshan schemes. However, recent reports have highlighted maintenance issues at the site, including non-functional interpretation centers and damaged signage, pointing to a need for more focused attention and funding. There have also been legal disputes regarding the protected boundaries of the sites, with some areas being considered for non-archaeological construction, raising concerns about potential damage to undiscovered remains.
Despite these challenges, Bavikonda remains a popular tourist destination, attracting history enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and nature lovers who come to explore the ruins and enjoy the scenic views of the Bay of Bengal from the hilltop.
https://vizagtourism.org.in/bavikonda-ancient-buddhist-monastery-vizag
https://tripxl.com/blog/bavikonda-ancient-buddhist-monastery/
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