Ramgram Stupa, located in Ramgram-7, Ujjaini, Nawalparasi, is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site. Among the relic stupas of Gautam Buddha, Ramgram Stupa remains the only unexcavated one, preserving its authenticity.
In ancient times, Panditpur, Ramgram, and Devdaha were part of the Koliya Republic. Extensive research and excavations have been conducted in these areas to secure Ramgram Stupa’s inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Constructed by the Koliya King over 500 BCE, this stupa enshrines one of the eight relics of Gautam Buddha after his Mahaparinirvana. Historical accounts, including those of Chinese travelers, describe the stupa’s location as four miles southeast of the Koliya capital, Ramgram. The Tripitaka scriptures also highlight its significance.
Despite its historical and religious importance, Ramgram Stupa has not received the attention it deserves. According to Shambhu Upadhyaya, President of the Ramgram Development and Conservation Committee, the site should have already been a global tourist hub. However, the mystery surrounding the stupa and the lack of comprehensive research continue to leave many aspects unexplored.
After Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana, his relics were divided into eight parts and enshrined in different locations, including Vaishali, Kapilvastu, Magadha, Ramgram, Allakappa, Kushinagar, Vetadipa, and Pava. Emperor Ashoka, who initiated the construction of 84,000 stupas, relocated relics from seven sites but failed to excavate Ramgram Stupa. Ancient texts mention that Nagas (serpent deities) safeguarded the relics, adding to the stupa’s mystique.
Archaeological excavations around the stupa have uncovered remnants of ancient Buddhist ponds and monasteries. In 2018, a geophysical survey identified a large monastery and other significant Buddhist artifacts, prompting further exploration.
Ramgram Municipality has recently established the Ramgram Development Fund to promote the site’s heritage. According to Mayor Dhanpat Yadav, the municipality aims to elevate Ramgram’s global recognition. However, bureaucratic hurdles, including approvals from the Lumbini Development Trust, have slowed progress. Despite these challenges, authorities remain committed to preserving and developing this historical treasure.
