UDAYAGIRI VIHARA (BUDDHIST MONASTERY)

These remains are of crucial importance to the Indian Buddhist heritage. It is the largest Buddhist complex uncovered in the country. The monastery would have been in activity between the ^7th and ^12th centuries. Many votive stupas, representations of Buddha, statues were also found. But the most impressive "monument" is undoubtedly the staircase well dug in the stone. Access to water was absolutely essential, especially since this site had at least two monasteries and probably hundreds of monks.