Ashoka Pillar

Ashoka Pillar

The Ashoka Pillars refer to a series of columns scattered across northern South Asia. According to the carvings on these pillars, they were all built by King Ashoka of the Maurya Dynasty in the 3rd century BC. Legend has it that King Ashoka spent his life waging wars and conquests, and in his later years, he felt deep remorse for his sins. After being enlightened by monks, he converted to Buddhism. To promote Buddhist teachings and educate his people, he erected such stone pillars, which were inscribed with — intended for public learning — to instruct citizens through the dharma.

Over time, most of these pillars have now become fragmented ruins, with only 19 remaining relatively intact. Each pillar was typically carved from a single piece of stone, averaging 40 to 50 feet in height and weighing about 50 tons. Depending on the quarry, some were made of red-and-white sandstone, while others were crafted from light yellow, "wood-grained" hard sandstone. The Ashoka Pillars mainly consist of four parts: the shaft, usually finely polished and smooth, tapers slightly upward and features a flattened top forming an inverted bell-shaped lotus. Lotus petals are carved with lions symbolizing the might of the Maurya Dynasty. These lions are exquisitely sculpted, some standing, some crouching, with lifelike, piercing eyes, showcasing the exceptional carving artistry of the time.

Pillars of Ashoka

Why go: One of the most significant historical monuments in India

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: India[India]

Province/State where the attraction is located: National Capital Territory of Delhi [National Capital Territory of Delhi]

City where the attraction is located: New Delhi [New Delhi]