Situated about 65 km from Sanchi, Udaypur is dotted with many elaborate and beautiful temples like the Udayeshwar Mahadeva Temple and the Neelkantheshwar Temple, which are excellent examples of the Parmara style of architecture. The Neelkantheshwar Temple was built in 11th century AD. The plan of the temple includes a garbha griha, which is a sanctum sanctorum; a sabha mandap, which is a prayer hall; and three pravesha mandaps, which are elaborate entrance porches.

The temple is noted for its graceful spire and the intricate medallions which adorn its sides. It is built out of red sandstone and stands on a high platform. It is enclosed by a small compound wall and the main features are a shikhara (spire), three entrance porches, a hall and a shrine.

As the name suggests, the Great Bowl is indeed just that. What makes it fascinating is that it has been carved out of a single rock. The Great Bowl was used to store the food that was meant to be distributed among the Buddhist monks living in the monasteries in the vicinity. It is also known as Grand Gumbha and is among the most popular spots in the Buddhist circuit in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Other places of attraction in Sanchi include the Sanchi Stupa, which is a 42-ft-high and 106-ft-wide imposing structure. The central chamber of the stupa is a large hemispherical dome that is home to many relics of Lord Buddha. Sanchi Stupa is surrounded by elaborate toranas, which are free-standing arched gateways used for ceremonial purposes in Indian temple architecture. The intricate carvings on the doorway are inspired by the life events and miracles of the Lord Buddha, taken from the Buddhist jataka stories.

Buddhist Vihara in Sanchi is well worth a visit. Unlike the earlier viharas, this one is not carved out in wood. It was the principal residence of monks and has a central area dedicated for communal activities. The area is surrounded by small chambers wherein the monks can sleep individually.

Considered as one of the most important Buddhist centres, it is located a few kilometres from Sanchi. The remains of Satdhara Stupa can also be found here. Inside the vihara lies a glass chest on a platform, which houses many relics. This place is visited by thousands of devotees, who come here to get a glimpse of the Buddhist culture. People visit the Buddhist Vihara first before heading on to see the other viharas.

Sonari, about 10 km from Sanchi, contains a group of eight stupas which are home to many relics associated with Buddhism. Another location, Satdhara, which is 11 km west of Sanchi, is home to two more similar stupas. It takes an hour long drive to reach Satdhara from Sanchi. Satdhara is located on a hill of rolling green, overlooking the Halali river. Coming here, one can easily imagine how the peace that permeates this place must have appealed to monks centuries ago. The largest stupa here, called Stupa Number 1, is almost as big as the famous Sanchi Stupa. Other minor attractions nearby include the ancient ruins at Andher and Mural Khurd, almost 17 and 12 km away from Sanchi, respectively.

The origin of the Gupta temple can be dated back to the 5th century AD. The temple was built during the reign of the Gupta dynasty, whose rule is referred to as the golden age due to the remarkable progress made during it. Its entrance is flanked by massive pillars that represent one of the earliest known examples of temple architecture in India.

This was the time of the highest glory for the Gupta dynasty and one can see it clearly reflected in the temple. It stands as a testament to the period when architectural investment was being made in Sanchi again after the time of the Mauryan empire. Though the temple is not embellished much, it manages to carve out a niche for itself with its simplicity.