The sculpture of Sanchi Stupa is reminiscent of the Mauryan era. This is a Buddhist monument that rises to a height of 91 meters. The Sanchi Stupa was commissioned in the 3rd century BC by emperor Ashoka after he converted to Buddhism. The sculpture of Sanchi Stupa is simplistic with a massive hemispherical unit that contains the relics of Gautama Buddha. A `chhatri` is also part of its sculpture. In Buddhism a chhatri stands as a symbol of honour and high rank. During the Sunga Era the dome was expanded. What resulted was a structure that was twice in size as compared to the original structure.

It was during the Sunga period that the dome was flattened at the top. It was further beautified by three parasols that were placed within a square railing. The Wheel of Law has been sculpted on this monument. The dome of the Sanchi Stupa has been built on the high circular drum used for circumambulation. A double staircase has been built to access the walking area. Another pathway was enclosed by a stone balustrade that has 4 `toranas` or gateways. These gateways had been built in the direction of the four cardinals.

The sculpture of Sanchi Stupa is a glaring example of the rock cut architecture. The gateways and balustrade have been carved out of stone. In fact the gateways are adorned with detailed narrative sculptures. These narrative sculptures have brought the tales from the Buddha`s life alive. The visitors will find these sculptures quite enamoring as well as enlightening. Amazingly these stone sculptures do not represent Buddha in human form. Rather he is presented to the onlookers with the help of things or incidents which are familiar to all and sundry. For instance the horse on which he fled, the Bodhi tree, his footprints and other symbols have been randomly used to represent the lord. According to Buddhist belief human form was too limited to be used for Buddha.

With time other Buddhist stupas and Hindu religious structures were built around the Sanchi Stupa. One of the oldest Buddhist temples in Sanchi is Temple 17. This temple has a flat roof with 4 pillars and a portico. The pillars in the temple have been carved out brilliantly while the exterior of the temple is utterly simple. The sculpture of Sanchi Stupa is in sync with that of the features of Mauryan sculpture. However it cannot be denied too that later additions were made to the original structure.