Dhulikatta Buddhist Stupa

Dhulikatta Buddhist Stupa is an ancient archaeological site in Peddapalli district, Telangana, dating back to the 2nd century BCE during the Satavahana period. The Mahastupa features a circular drum with ayaka platforms on four cardinal directions and carved limestone slabs depicting Buddhist symbols including Naga Muchilinda. This Hinayana sect Buddhist site represents over 2000 years of religious heritage and was a major monastic complex.

Visitors can explore the ruins of an ancient Buddhist stupa situated on elevated ground near Hussaini Vagu. The site features a circular drum structure with projecting ayaka platforms, remnants of fortification walls, and excavated limestone slabs with Buddhist carvings. The surroundings include peaceful rural landscapes along the riverbank, with visible structural remains of the ancient monastic complex including the lower pradakshina patha and dome base.

The Buddhist Mahastupa was established at the end of the 2nd century BCE, making it over 2000 years old. The site flourished during the Satavahana period (2nd century BCE to 3rd century CE) as a major political and economic center. The stupa's limestone embellishments are contemporary to the Barhut Stupa. Archaeological excavations revealed punch-marked coins from Roman Kingdom and Satavahana dynasty, ivory combs, beads, bangles, and silver jewelry. Greek emissary Megasthenes' descriptions match this fortified town on river banks.

The stupa belongs to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism where anthropomorphic representation of Buddha was taboo, instead showing Buddha through symbols like Chatra, Padukas, throne with Swastika, and Pillar of fire. The site holds significance for Buddhist heritage in Telangana, with the Naga Muchilinda carving being prominent. A three-day Satavahana festival is held annually in January at Dhulikatta.