Salihundam

Once known as “Salivatika”, meaning rice emporium, this little village is situated on the south bank of River Vamsadhara in Srikakulam district. But many called it Salyapetika meaning box of bones or relics as many monuments and images belonging to the later Buddhist period were found. The little village of Salihundam is located at a distance of 5 kms. to the west of old seaport town of Kalingapatnam. Some of the monuments and images at Salihundam belong to the later Buddhist period except a few brick remains, which seem to be little older.

The site was first discovered by Late Rao Saheb Gidugu Venkata Rama Murthy Pantulu in 1919 AD and later it was excavated by A.H. Longhurst, T.N. Ramachandran and R. Subrahmanyan (Report published). During excavations relic caskets, four stupas, a chaityagriha and a number of sculptures reflecting the three phases of Buddhism - Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana were found dating back to about 2nd century B.C. to 12th century A.D.

This village assumed archaeological importance owing to the existence of ancient monuments. There are a number of Buddhist stupas and a huge monastic complex on a hillock amidst scenic surroundings. You can see mahastupa, votive stupas, platforms and viharas. The Buddhist stupas recently excavated reveal the importance of this place in the bygone days. There's distinct evidence of the presence of the 'Vajrayana cult'. The statues of 'Tara' and 'Marichi' were discovered at this site and from here Buddhism spread to Sumatra and other far-eastern countries. The Archaeological Department is taking all measures to preserve these monuments, which are of great value.

Maha Stupa, Chaityagriha, Maha Vihara, structural temples and Vajrayana images.