The early half of this century saw the discovery of art objects that brought to light many Buddhist sites in Andhra Pradesh. Random excavations resulted in mass collection of sculptures, inscribed blocks, coins, relic caskets and the like. In recent years due to planned excavations at Nagarjunakonda, Amaravati-Dharanikota, Saliohundam, Dhulikatta, Kotilingala, Cudinallam, Chandavaram and Peddavegi, we are able to assess the constituents of the early historical cultures of this geographical area.

In Buddhism, places that are associated with Lord Gautam Buddha during his lifetime are considered extremely auspicious. They are the hottest destination when any Buddhist thinks of pilgrimage in India. A whole lot of Buddhist sites await to enthrall you on your visit to Andhra Pradesh which has an intrinsic charm that will bind you almost immediately.

A number of Buddhist temples and monasteries are spread over the whole of the state are held in great reverence by Buddhist community. Some of these temples and monasteries have gained international fame while others are important as local tourist attractions. These centers might include small towns and cities where Buddhism has flourished. The stupas, statues and caves are sure to instill in you a spirituality that is so unique to Buddhism.

The sites reveal an abundance of information and understanding about Buddhism of a bygone era. Undoubtedly, the Andhra art style (Amaravati School of Art) finds creative expression in the Buddhist symbols that are used to depict Buddhist art and architecture in Andhra Pradesh.

Buddhist Centers in Andhra Pradesh