Chandavaram

It is on the hilly edges of the Nallamala Range, not far from Chandavaram. It is one of Andhra Pradesh's most beautiful Buddhist places. It is on a hill called Singarakonda, which has a view of the Gundlakamma River. There is a temple and a stupa with terraces. On the stupa's top are limestone panels with carvings of the Bodhi tree and the dharma chakra. Chandavaram is one of the best places to visit near Vijayawada.

In the past, a museum was located right next to the stupa, where objects discovered were displayed. However, the displays were moved to a different place after a string of thefts in the early 2000s. An artifact from the 3rd century stolen from Chandavaram was returned to the National Gallery of Australia in September 2016. The place is a must-visit during the Vijayawada tour package.

What is the history of Chandavaram?

The spot first came to light in 1871, hidden under a green hill. During excavations, many items were found. It showed this place was a major Buddhist religious centre between 300 BCE and 700 CE. A minimal number of people visit the archaeological site. However, the beautiful ruins and scenery are worth the long trip to Chandavaram.

Abductions at the place

Since 2000, thieves have taken things from the Buddhist spot at Chandavaram. Two 9-foot-long panels were taken from the site's museum in October 2000. The Bodhi tree and chaitya were carved into these panels. Three piers that were each 9 feet long were stolen in February 2001. The picture of Buddha was on a fire on one of the pillars. Three more fancy pillars and a lotus charm were stolen in March 2001.

The Buddhist site at Chandavaram is essential for archaeology and religion. The things found here teach us about Buddhist culture and community, so they must be safe. But there have been cases of these items being stolen. So, when someone or a museum curator goes to buy Buddha statues, they need to be aware of how those statues or other items got there.