VIDISHA

Vidisha also popularly addressed as Besnagar in the ancient times and the erstwhile capital of the brave Sungas, is famed for its rich heritage, ancient monuments and sculptural grandeur. Located at the meeting point of the Bes and Betwa Rivers, Vidisha lies at close proximities to the city of Sanchi, which occupies a prime position in the Indian history as a place of great historic excellence.   

 

 This elegant city of great historic pride ascended to the heights of fame under the popular ruling dynasties of Satvahanas, Guptas, Sungas and Nagas. The city which was a busy trading centre in the 5th Century BC also flourished under the rule of the valiant Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty. 

 

 The sightseeing can be started by first visiting the ancient Udaigiri caves which is located in the majestic sand stone hill, which is about 110 mts from the ground level, is a site of rich antique prosperity which is spectacularly placed amidst the flowing beauties of Bes and Betwa is famed for rock-cut caves and remnants of idols and sculptures influenced by Jain and Buddhist cultures of different dynasties are found in the caves. The caves boast of brilliance in the art of construction with stunning alleyways and great designs in the roof. A visit to the Holiodorous Pillar would also be remarkable. 

 

 The city is also a well known spot for a good amount of temples and holy places. The temples of Bijamandal, Maladevi, Bajramath and Udayeshwara can be visited by the faithful devotees. 

 

 Vidisha with rich architectural splendour amuses the tourists with its elegant congregation of historic places. The city over flowing with its past glory will be greatly admired by the history freaks. 

                                                  PLACES TO VISIT

Udaigiri Caves : Udaigiri caves located in the majestic sand stone hill which is about 110 mts from the ground level, is a site of rich antique prosperity which is spectacularly placed amidst the flowing beauties of Bes and Betwa is famed for rock-cut caves and remnants of idols and sculptures influenced by Jain and Buddhist cultures of different dynasties are found the caves. The caves boast of brilliance in the art of construction with elegant alleyways and great designs in the roof. Cave No 9 is a bigger one than compared to the other caves, which is made up of lofty pillars and a spacious hall. The idol of Varaha Swamy is found in Cave No 5.

Holiodorous Pillar : The Greek representative to the Sunga court named Holiodorous assembled a pillar in the foreground of Vasudeva temple in order to pay respect to the Lord Vasudeva. Hence the pillar is named as Holiodorous Pillar.

VijayaMandir/Bijamandal : This beautiful 11th century temple dedicated to goddess Vijaya was destroyed by King Aurangazeb in the 16th century and a mosque was constructed here.

Gyraspur : This ancient place about 41 kms from Sanchi contains the pillar ruins of the temples of Maladevi and Bhajramath. These temples are believed to be constructed in about 10th Century. 

Maladevi Temple : This beautiful temple located on the hilltop is perfectly placed in the natural setting. The temple adorned with rich carvings encloses a common hall and a room dedicated to the goddess. 

Bajramath Temple : This temple with a spectacular dome which was once believed to be a sanctum dedicated to the Hindu gods are now adorned with the idols of the gods belonging to the Digambar Jains. 

Udayeshwara Temple : This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Udaipur was constructed in the 11th century by King Udaiaditya.

Gadarmal Temple : This temple constructed in Hindu and Jain style of architecture is located in the town called Badoh. The temple registers a highest point in the surroundings and can be viewed clearly from certain distance. 

Sola-Kambi temple :  This temple speculated to be constructed in the Gupta age is located besides a lake and is made up of 16 pillars. Dashavtar Temple and Sat-Madhi temple are located at close distances to this temple.

Giridhari Temple : This temple constructed in 11th century AD is famed for its beautiful carvings. 

By Air : Visitors can opt the Bhopal airport which is about 56 kms from Vidisha. 

By Rail : Vidisha is an important station which has trains to almost all major cities in the state and some of the prominent places in India.

By Road : It is well connected by bus to the near-by places.