7 Ashoka Pillars in India: History, Locations And Significance of Edicts!

Today, 20 of these magnificent structures still survive, each one a masterpiece of early Indian stone craftsmanship. What makes them even more special is that they are India’s oldest known stone inscriptions, offering us a rare glimpse into the advanced Mauryan civilization.

In this article, we’ll explore seven prominent Ashoka Pillars in India and uncover the history, significance, and fascinating details of these monuments.

1. The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath

The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath is also known for its smooth sandstone, which has survived thousands of years. The importance of Ashoka Pillars like this one is highlighted by their continued relevance; the lion capital of Ashoka is still seen on Indian currency and serves as the country’s official emblem.

• Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Fridays.
• Entry Fee: Rs. 5 for Indian visitors and Rs. 100 for foreigners. This ticket often grants access to nearby archaeological sites, including Dhamek Stupa and the museum.

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2. The Vaishali Pillar of Ashoka

This pillar of Ashoka carries inscriptions focused on peace, unity, and respect for all beings. Ashoka used this Ashoka Pillar to communicate his ideals to people in this region, urging them to live together harmoniously. The importance of Ashoka Pillars like Vaishali’s goes beyond their religious value, reflecting Ashoka’s efforts to foster a unified, moral empire.

• Timings: Open from sunrise to sunset.
• Entry Fee: Usually free for visitors, making it accessible to all without a formal entry ticket.

3. The Allahabad-Kausambi Ashoka Pillar

This Ashoka Pillar has inscriptions about kindness, respect, and a sense of duty toward all beings. The messages here are intended to encourage people to live in harmony, embracing a moral lifestyle. For historians, this ashok pillar offers valuable insights into how Ashoka’s principles were both practical and profound.

• Timings: Open from sunrise to sunset.
• Entry Fee: Generally free for visitors, donations may sometimes be encouraged for site maintenance.

4. The Lauriya Nandangarh Ashoka Pillar

This pillar of Ashoka contains inscriptions promoting peace and non-violence. The list of edicts of Ashoka inscribed here emphasizes compassion, a core theme across all his edicts. Each Ashoka Pillar reflects his desire to establish a kingdom rooted in ethical values, and Lauriya Nandangarh’s pillar is a prime example of this message.

• Timings: Generally open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. Specific timings can vary, so checking locally is recommended.
• Entry Fee: Typically free, but occasional nominal charges may apply depending on preservation efforts or specific events.

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5. The Rampurva Ashoka Pillar

The importance of Ashoka Pillars such as the one at Rampurva lies in their design and messages, meant to encourage people to lead virtuous lives. Ashoka used this ashok ka stambh to inspire respect for all life and emphasize the need for ethical conduct. The Pillars of Ashoka facts highlight that, for Ashoka, these pillars were a way to bring Buddhist ideals into the daily lives of his people.

• Timings: Generally open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. Specific timings can vary, so checking locally is recommended.
• Entry Fee: Typically free, but occasional nominal charges may apply depending on preservation efforts or specific events.

6. The Delhi-Meerut Ashoka Pillar

The inscriptions on this Ashoka Pillar encourage respect for different religions and promote tolerance. This message of respect and peaceful coexistence is a core theme across all Pillars of Ashoka and one that still holds relevance today. The importance of Ashoka Pillars like the Delhi-Meerut pillar lies not only in their historical value but also in the timeless wisdom they embody.

• Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.
• Entry Fee: Rs. 25 for Indian citizens and Rs. 300 for foreign nationals

7. The Ashoka Pillar at Topra

The inscriptions here guide people toward kindness and non-violence, with the list of edicts of Ashoka reflecting his teachings on moral values. This Ashok pillars serves as a reminder of Ashoka’s aim to create a harmonious society, one that values integrity, ethics, and tolerance.

• Timings: Open during standard hours, sunrise to sunset.
• Entry Fee: Free to visit, as this remains an open site

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Why the Ashoka Pillars Matter?

For modern Indians, the Ashoka Pillars in India represent a connection to ancient ideals. The teachings on these pillars remind us of the values that can help build a harmonious society. The Ashoka pillar locations serve as pilgrimage sites for Buddhists and historians alike, providing insights into both Ashoka’s life and his dedication to spreading the Buddhist Dharma.

Where are the Ashoka Pillars Located?

These Ashoka Pillars show us a ruler’s evolution from conquest to compassion and give us glimpses into a time when rulers used their power to promote ethical values. Through the pillars of Ashoka, Ashoka encouraged his people to lead lives of honesty, kindness, and respect, values that are still meaningful today. Each Ashoka Pillar is a reminder of the potential for growth and change, showing how a powerful leader transformed into a proponent of peace and unity, leaving behind a legacy that still inspires millions.