A tiny village located in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, India, Bhattiprolu was known as Pratipalapura in the erstwhile era. At that point of time it was a very well known Buddhist town under the Sala kingdom.

Bhattiprolu is most known for its stupa, the Chinna Lanja dibba and Vikramarka kota dibba. Excavation undertaken in the year 1870 unearthed three mounds while the one carried out in 1892 led to the discovery of three inscribed stone relic caskets containing crystal caskets, relics of Buddha and jewels. The diameter of the stupa measures around 40 m with an additional basement of 2.4 m wide running all around. The most important discovery is the crystal relic casket of sarira dhatu of the Buddha from the central mass of the stupas.


Quick Getaways

• Amravati : Located around 32 km from Guntur on the southern banks of River Krishna, Amravati is best known for its stupa which is the biggest one in Andhra. Apart from it, there is also the Archaeological Museum & Amareswara Swamy Temple worth visiting during a trip.
  
  
• Undavalli Caves : The Undavalli Caves date back to 4th-5th century and are superb specimen of rock cut architecture. The caves are dedicated to Anantapadmanabha Swamy and Narisimha Swamy. A 5 m tall reclining image of Lord Buddha along with another reclining image of Lord Vishnu are the highlights of Undavalli caves.
  
  
• Bapatla beach : This beautiful beach is located at a distance of 7 km from Guntur and is perfect if you wish to enjoy some tranquil moments. Here, you can also taste some mouthwatering seafood
  
  
• Kesanapally : Exacavations work carried out here revealed remains of a Stupa and Vihara. Apart from this a number of lime stone panels showing full and half lotus medallions were also found.
  
  
• Vaddamanu : 34 km northeast of the Guntur city and 10 km southeast of Amravati is a small village by the name of Vaddamanu. Excavation work carried out here have unearthed a Maha Stupa, two votive stupas and platforms, sculptured panels, Maharathi and Satavahana coins, Brahmi label inscriptions and early historic pottery. The pillars found here have striking resemblance to the monastries of Nagarjunakonda.