In this section there are 30+ maps of places in Ancient Asia to help as a reference for those interested in understanding the geography and history presented in Buddhist texts and history. A number of them have been prepared especially for this section, and others accompany particular texts and translations that are presented elsewhere on this website. The intention is to add to this section as and when the need arises. I have included modern place names in some of the maps so as to help orientate the reader, who may not be familiar with the geography of Asia. I have also annotated the maps to give sources and further relevant information that could not be included elsewhere.

I have now given a a number of talks based on these maps, and then made videos out of them, including additional information and photographs, etc. where relevant. They can be accessed on YouTube:

1. The Early Life of the Buddha
2. The Last Year of the Buddha’s Life
3. Asoka and the Missions
4. The Spread of Buddhism through Asia
5. Representing the Buddha

My main sources for information in compiling the maps, besides the traditional Texts, Commentaries and Chronicles, have been the following:

• Geography of Early Buddhism by B.C. Law
• Dictionary of Pali Proper Names by G.P. Malalasekera
• Buddhist India by T.W. Rhys-Davids
• Middle Land, Middle Way by S. Dhammika

Many other books have incidental information, including the various annotated translations I have consulted during the course of this work. I am particularly grateful to Bhante S. Dhammika for checking the maps through for me and making many useful suggestions and corrections, which has helped improve them considerably.