Moghalmari Monastery

The first major excavation was conducted in 2002-03 by Professor Asok Datta from the University of Calcutta, which uncovered the main monastic complex. The excavation revealed a triratha-type structure, three stupas measuring 2.80m, 2m, and 1.25m in diameter, and extensive stucco decorations. The fourth phase of excavation revealed a brick gateway at the northern part of the monastery with two pillars featuring a purnaghata (water urn) carving. The fifth phase of excavation in 2013 by the West Bengal State Archaeology Department exposed the massive southern part of the monastery and its southern wall with stucco and lime plaster designs including floral motifs, figures of devotees, and the bodhi tree. Five additional small stupas were discovered in another location, indicating the presence of a main stupa nearby. Artifacts discovered include terracotta tablets, seals, coins (including 200 ancient cowries imported from the Maldives), bronze statuettes, stucco figurines, and ornaments. A small museum adjacent to the excavation site houses these artifacts.

Limited restoration work has been conducted to stabilize exposed structures. The site has been partially covered and protected, and a museum has been established to house artifacts. Ongoing conservation efforts focus on protecting exposed brick structures from weathering and environmental damage.

Traders who benefited from the routes established by Buddhists

The key architectural materials used in Moghalmari were bricks, and stucco made from a mixture of lime, sand, and mud or mortar. The architectural style and building techniques were heavily influenced by the post Gupta period structures. The bricks were bonded with mud and lime mortar. Stucco was then applied on the walls to achieve smooth surfaces and decorative reliefs. The presence of tirtha style buildings indicate the level of planning involved in order to achieve a perfect result. The tools used were most probably rudimentary but the level of detail they achieved with what they had is rather impressive to say at the least.

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Portions of Moghalmari have been excavated, and one of the structures that was unearthed during earlier excavations was a triratha type structure, a particular Indian architectural style typical in Buddhist monasteries where each side has three outward square projections. Apart from this, three stupas were found as well. These stupas were round, made of bricks, and measured 2.80m, 2m and 1.25m in diameter. Five other similar small stupas have been found in another spot as well, indicating that the main stupa must have been somewhere nearby. There are also lines of intricate statues, carvings depicting various floral patterns, stories and scenes along the wall. These are inspired from the Gupta period architecture. Later on, the fourth phase of excavation revealed a brick gateway at the northern part of the monastery. The gateway consisted of two pillars, on top of which was a carving of a purnaghata (a water urn). The fifth phase of excavation exposed the massive southern part of the monastery and its southern wall. The wall has stucco and lime plaster designs along it. The designs also consist of floral motifs, figures of devotees and the bodhi tree among many others.

21.992500, 87.296389

{"notes":"Archaeological site with exposed ruins; visitors should exercise caution on uneven terrain; suitable for all age groups with supervision","restrooms":"Limited facilities available","wheelchair_accessible":"Limited due to archaeological site conditions and uneven terrain"}

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Early morning or late afternoon to avoid extreme heat; Winter months (October to March) offer more comfortable weather conditions; Avoid peak summer months due to high temperatures

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Visitors should wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain; carry water and necessary provisions as local facilities may be limited; respect the archaeological site and do not disturb structures or artifacts; photography may be restricted in certain areas; follow guidance from site caretakers

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2025-11-17T06:38:13.238046+00:00

2025-11-17T11:59:40.10695+00:00