CONTENTS: Introduction, Origin of Stupas from Prehistoric burial mounds, Significance of Stupas in Buddhism, Role of Emperor Ashoka in the construction of Stupas, Overview of the book's focus on Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia, PART I: INDIAN STUPAS: 1. Introduction to Stupas, Chaitya grihas, and Rock-Cut Temples, Evolution of these structures, Ashoka's contribution to their development, 2. SANCHI STUPAS: In-depth analysis of Sanchi's well-preserved stupas, Architectural and sculptural features, 3. BHARHUT STUPAS: Discovery and significance of Bharhut Stupas, Contribution to Indian Sculptural Art, 4. SARNATH: Sarnath as a Buddhist Center, Importance of the Dhamekh Stupa, 5. SANGHOL STUPA: Kushana period Stupa in Punjab, Architectural and historical context, 6. GANDHARA AND TAXILA: Buddhist sites in Gandhara and Taxila, Stupas and other Buddhist Structures, 7. BAMIYAN CAVE: Cultural and geographical significance of Bamiyan, Buddhist art and architecture in Bamiyan, 8. AMARAVATI STUPAS: Amaravati stupas and their unique features, Sculptural and artistic richness, 9. NAGARJUNAKONDA STUPA: Nagarjunakonda's importance as a Buddhist site, Stupa architecture and sculptures, 10. OTHER STUPAS AND ROCK-CUT TEMPLES IN SOUTH INDIA: Overview of Buddhist remains in South India, Notable examples and their characteristics, PART II: EASTERN AND NORTHEASTERN INDIA: 11. Bodh Gaya Stupa: Importance of Bodh Gaya as a pilgrimage site, Architecture and history of the Mahabodhi Temple, 12. NALANDA STUPA: Nalanda as a Buddhist University, Stupa and other Monastic structures, 13. RATNAGIRI STUPA AND MONASTERY: Ratnagiri Stupa and Monastery, Ratnagiri's significance in Buddhist History, Architectural and sculpture remains, 14. BUDDHIST STUPAS AND TEMPLES OF PALA AND SENA RULERS: Noltable examples of stupas and temples, PART III: SRI LANKA AND SOUTHEAST ASIA: 15. ANURADHAPURA STUPA: Sri Lanka's Buddhist Heritage, Anuradhapura's importance as a Sacred Site, 16. SOUTHEAST ASIAN BUDDHIST STUPAS AND TEMPLES: Spread of Buddhism to Southeast Asia, Architectural Styles and Cultural Influences, Focus on Java's Buddhist Monuments.