Dhauli Shanti Stupa
Historical Significance: Dhauli is historically paramount as the site of the devastating Kalinga War in 261 BCE. The horrific bloodshed here led Emperor Ashoka to renounce violence, embrace Buddhism, and champion the cause of Ahimsa (non-violence). The Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa): The modern Stupa w as built by the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangh in collaboration with the Japanese Nipponzan-My?h?ji monks and inaugurated in 1972. It stands as a symbol of world peace. Ashokan Edicts: The ancient Ashokan Rock Edicts, carved on a massive rock beneath the Stupa, are a tangible link to Ashoka's post-war transformation, containing eleven out of his fourteen major rock edicts.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 hoursPlace Type:
Historical, Religious (Buddhist), ScenicEntry Fees:
No Entry Fee: There is generally No Entry Fee to visit the Dhauli Shanti Stupa or the Ashokan Rock Edicts. Access is free.
Parking Fees: Nominal municipal fees are charged for parking vehicles at the base or designated parking area on the h...No Entry Fee: There is generally No Entry Fee to visit the Dhauli Shanti Stupa or the Ashokan Rock Edicts. Access is free.
Parking Fees: Nominal municipal fees are charged for parking vehicles at the base or designated parking area on the hill.
Photography Fee: Usually, no charge for still photography or mobile phones.
Donation Box: Donations for the maintenance of the Stupa and Buddhist facilities are voluntary.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Some sources say till 8:00 PM). It is a hilltop site with open access during the day.
Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise (5:30 AM to 7:00 AM) is highly recommended for the best light, coolest weat...Regular Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Some sources say till 8:00 PM). It is a hilltop site with open access during the day.
Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise (5:30 AM to 7:00 AM) is highly recommended for the best light, coolest weather, and tranquil atmosphere. Sunset (5:00 PM to 6:30 PM) is also a popular and beautiful time.
Avoid Midday: The heat can be intense as the white stone of the Stupa reflects light, making midday visits uncomfortable.Special Events:
Kalinga Mahotsav: Though not directly on the hill, the site often hosts cultural performances (like martial arts and traditional Odisha dances) during the annual Kalinga Mahotsav festival, celebrating the region's heritage.
Buddha Purnima: T...Kalinga Mahotsav: Though not directly on the hill, the site often hosts cultural performances (like martial arts and traditional Odisha dances) during the annual Kalinga Mahotsav festival, celebrating the region's heritage.
Buddha Purnima: The birth and enlightenment of Lord Buddha are celebrated with special prayers, chanting, and a gathering of monks and devotees.
Anniversary of Stupa Inauguration: A local celebration is held on November 8th every year to mark the Stupa's opening in 1972.Best Photo Spots:
Stupa and Elephant Rock: The best spot is a mid-distance shot that captures both the white hemispherical Stupa and the ancient Ashokan rock edicts (and the elephant carving) together, symbolizing the transition from violence to peace.
Panoramic ...Stupa and Elephant Rock: The best spot is a mid-distance shot that captures both the white hemispherical Stupa and the ancient Ashokan rock edicts (and the elephant carving) together, symbolizing the transition from violence to peace.
Panoramic Valley View: Capture the expansive view of the Daya River meandering through the valley and the flat plains below.
Stupa Carvings: Close-up shots of the detailed sculptural panels depicting the life of the Buddha and the Kalinga War scenes.
Sunset View: The hill offers a magnificent vista for capturing the sun setting over the valley.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Circumambulate the Stupa: Perform Parikrama (circumambulation) around the base of the Stupa, admiring the sculptural panels and statues of the Buddha.
View the Ashokan Edicts: Visit the protected area beneath the hill to read (or observe) the ancient rock inscriptions.
Photography: Capture the brilliant white Stupa against the blue sky and the panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and the Daya River.
Meditation: The tranquil atmosphere of the hilltop is ideal for quiet meditation and reflection on the themes of peace and non-violence.
Watch the Sunset: The sunset from Dhauli Hill is spectacular and a favored activity for both tourists and locals.
Visit the Nearby Temples: Explore the Dhaval...Circumambulate the Stupa: Perform Parikrama (circumambulation) around the base of the Stupa, admiring the sculptural panels and statues of the Buddha.
View the Ashokan Edicts: Visit the protected area beneath the hill to read (or observe) the ancient rock inscriptions.
Photography: Capture the brilliant white Stupa against the blue sky and the panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and the Daya River.
Meditation: The tranquil atmosphere of the hilltop is ideal for quiet meditation and reflection on the themes of peace and non-violence.
Watch the Sunset: The sunset from Dhauli Hill is spectacular and a favored activity for both tourists and locals.
Visit the Nearby Temples: Explore the Dhavaleswar Temple on the same hill and other small shrines.
Attend a Prayer Ceremony: If present during a Buddhist prayer or chanting session by resident monks, observe the tranquil ritual.
Information
-
Why Famous:
Ashoka's Epiphany: It is globally recognized as the exact location where the Kalinga War took place and where Emperor Ashoka transformed from a merciless conqueror (Chandashoka) into a compassionate ruler (Dharmashoka).
The White Peace Pagoda:Ashoka's Epiphany: It is globally recognized as the exact location where the Kalinga War took place and where Emperor Ashoka transformed from a merciless conqueror (Chandashoka) into a compassionate ruler (Dharmashoka).
The White Peace Pagoda: The brilliant white structure of the Shanti Stupa, built by Japanese monks, is a powerful visual symbol of peace, drawing tourists and pilgrims from across the world.
Ashokan Rock Edicts: The presence of the authentic Ashokan inscriptions, carved over 2,200 years ago, gives the site unparalleled historical depth. -
Architecture:
Hemispherical Stupa: The Shanti Stupa is a large, white, hemispherical dome (Stupa) with a central pinnacle, following the traditional design of a Buddhist reliquary monument.
Sculptural Panels: The Stupa's base is adorned with four colossal...Hemispherical Stupa: The Shanti Stupa is a large, white, hemispherical dome (Stupa) with a central pinnacle, following the traditional design of a Buddhist reliquary monument.
Sculptural Panels: The Stupa's base is adorned with four colossal statues of Lord Buddha and panels depicting the life of Buddha and the stories of Ashoka's transformation and the Kalinga War.
The Elephant Sculpture: The famous rock-cut elephant sculpture at the site of the Ashokan Edicts is considered one of the earliest pieces of rock-cut Indian sculpture and a powerful Buddhist symbol.
Rock Edict Inscription: The ancient rock edicts are protected by a canopy but remain a critical part of the site's architecture. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), approximately 11 KMs away. Take a taxi or pre-paid cab.
By Train: Nearest is Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS), approximately 10 KMs away. Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw directly. ...By Air: Nearest is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), approximately 11 KMs away. Take a taxi or pre-paid cab.
By Train: Nearest is Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS), approximately 10 KMs away. Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw directly.
By Road: Located about 8 KMs south of Bhubaneswar city on the highway towards Puri. Easily accessible by private car or hired taxi.
By Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are the most common way to reach the site, but negotiate a return fare, as finding an empty auto for the return trip can be difficult. City buses also ply the main road nearby. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
October to March: Best Season to visit, with cool, pleasant weather perfect for the hilltop exploration and sunset viewing.
Early Mornings: The Ideal Time for experiencing peace, best light for photography, and avoiding the heat reflecting o...October to March: Best Season to visit, with cool, pleasant weather perfect for the hilltop exploration and sunset viewing.
Early Mornings: The Ideal Time for experiencing peace, best light for photography, and avoiding the heat reflecting off the white stone.
Summer (April-June): The intense heat should be avoided, especially in the afternoon. -
Near Tourist Places:
Ashokan Rock Edicts (On site), Dhavaleswar Temple (On site), Daya River (Adjoining), Brahmeswara Temple (7 KMs), Lingaraj Temple (9 KMs), Sisupalgarh (4 KMs), Odisha State Museum (10 KMs), Rajarani Temple (10 KMs), Sari Deula (8 KMs), Pipili (Appliqué Village) (15 KMs).
Tourism Tips
-
Health & Safety: Wear a hat and sunglasses, as the white Stupa reflects intense sunlight. The climb is short but requires caution.
Packing Essentials: Carry a camera with a wide-angle lens for the panoramic views. Wear comfortable footwear...Health & Safety: Wear a hat and sunglasses, as the white Stupa reflects intense sunlight. The climb is short but requires caution.
Packing Essentials: Carry a camera with a wide-angle lens for the panoramic views. Wear comfortable footwear for the walk up the hill.
Accommodation Advice: Accommodation is best sought in Bhubaneswar city, as Dhauli is a quick half-day trip destination.
Other Tips: Maintain silence and a respectful demeanor around the Buddhist site and the Stupa. Do not climb on the sculptural panels. Hire a guide to fully appreciate the historical significance of the Ashokan Edicts.
Reviews
FAQs
Bhubaneswar Itineray And Cost:-
Dhauli Shanti Stupa Tourism:-
Other Places In Bhubaneswar :-
Other States In India :-
Information about New and Updated Locations() of Odisha Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
Near Places
Ananta Vasudeva Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Balaram Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
BDA City Centre
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Bhubaneswar Zoo
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Biju Patnaik Park
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Bindusagar Lake
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Brahmeswara Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Chausathi Jogini Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Daya River Battlefield
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Deras Dam
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Dhauli Shanti Stupa
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ekamra Haat
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ganesh Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Gokarneshwar Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
ISKCON Temple, Bhubaneswar
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities