Following the famous Kalinga War, one of the bloodiest conflicts in Indian history, and Emperor Ashoka’s invasion, Buddhism started to take root in Odisha. The Emperor eventually converted to Buddhism, a faith recognized for its emphasis on peace. Several monasteries and important Buddhist communities were built in the state of Odisha; these locations are now known for their distinctive topography. These towns and monasteries are now widely recognized as important Buddhist historical sites.
The vestiges of Odisha’s rich Buddhist past can be found far from the bustle of the city, among the serene settings along the banks of the Daya river. A good example of a symbiotic relationship is the mutual effect that exists between Buddhism and Odisha’s cultural legacy, with the latter helping to propagate the religion throughout Asian nations.
Buddhism has had a major impact on Odisha’s historical and cultural development. Visits to the state’s numerous historic forts and Buddha statues draw tourists and Buddhists from all over the world. Odisha is home to nearly 200 Buddhist heritage sites, including the Padmasambhava Mahavihara Monastery, the Chandragiri Buddhist Monastery, the Ratnagiri Monastery, the Udayagiri Buddhist Complex, the Kuruma Buddhist Heritage Site, the Lalitagiri Buddhist Complex, and the Dhauli Shanti Stupa.
Be astounded by the wealth of undiscovered and unspoiled Buddhist sites in Odisha. Here is our selection of some of the BEST Buddhist sites and locations in Odisha. Discover why Odisha is deservedly referred to as India’s Best Kept Secret Gems by scrolling through the list below!
The Diamond Triangle of Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri and Udayagiri
One of the most well-known Buddhist circuits in Odisha, the Diamond Triangle, stretches for around 100 km from Bhubaneshwar to Jajpur and includes the three nearby heritage sites of Lalitagiri, Ratnagiri, and Udayagiri.
The oldest of the three locations, Lalitagiri, is home to the remnants of a monastery that was constructed in the first century AD and functioned as a hub for the Buddhist schools of Hinayana and Mahayana. The remains include of the main stupa, known as the Mahastupa, other votive stupas, and prayer rooms. This museum displays a wide range of artifacts, such as statues of Tara, Jambhala, and Lord Buddha.
Situated next to Lalitagiri, Udayagiri is home to magnificent sculptures, prayer halls, the remains of two monasteries, and mahastupas. Along with seeing a variety of native bird species, visitors may take in views of the massive lion statue located at the foot of Udayagiri hill.
Ratnagiri, regarded as one of the most well excavated Buddhist monuments in Odisha, was formerly Nalanda’s adversary. This unusual monastery comprises many Buddha images, a Mahastupa, and votive and commemorative stupas. The monastery’s elaborately carved entrance gate is another attraction for visitors to see.
These three Buddhist heritage sites, Lalitagiri situated in the Cuttack district, and Ratnagiri and Udayagiri situated in the Jajpur district, are all located within 100 km from the state capital, Bhubaneshwar.
The Message of Peace, Dhauligiri’s Shanti Stupa
On the route to Puri, the Shanti Stupa, also called the Peace Pagoda, is situated near Dhauligiri, roughly 7 kilometers from Bhubaneswar. The word “shanti” means “peace,” and this stupa was constructed on the spot where King Ashoka adopted Buddhism and embraced calm after the Kalinga War. This is the location of Emperor Ashoka’s well-known rock edict, which attracts a lot of Buddhist believers. The Japan Buddha Sangha and Nippon Kalinga Buddha Sangha constructed the Shanti Stupa to honor King Ashoka’s message of peace following the conclusion of the Kalinga War, which marked its 50th anniversary last year.
A famous tale states that Emperor Ashoka was converted from a belligerent to a peace-loving man as a result of the violent Kalinga War. King Ashoka set the foundation for numerous stupas, chaityas, and pillars. He also issued decrees that encourage happiness, contentment, and harmony. There’s also the earliest Buddhist sculpture in Odisha, a rock-cut elephant.
The stupa is shaped like a dome, with images of the Bodhi tree and the Buddha’s footsteps engraved on stone panels. Additionally, there is a picture of Ashoka surrendering his sword to Lord Buddha, signifying his total giving up on fighting. The Saddharma Vihar Monastery is well-liked by Buddhist followers and is situated close. A little distance away, the Dhabaleshwar temple is equally popular with Hindu and Buddhist worshipers. It was rebuilt in 1972. To fully appreciate the many Buddhist sites that contribute to Dhauligiri’s spiritual significance in Odisha, a visit is a necessity.
Jiranga Monastery: the land of heaven
Jirang is sometimes referred to as the “little Tibet” in Odisha, India, the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. However, since China conquered Tibet in 1959, Jirang has served as a settlement for Tibetan settlers. The first group of Tibetans arrived at Chandragiri, also known as Camp No. 4, on May 1, 1963. Since then, through their initiative and attitude, they have not only settled in Chandragiri and the nearby camps at Labarasingh, Mahendragadh, and Tankilipadar (all within 4-5 km of Chandragiri) but have also given color to the picturesque Eastern Ghat mountains in this region of Odisha. This area is called “Phuntsokling” by the Tibetans, which means “land of plenty and happiness.”
The main draw in this area is the Padmasambhava Monastery, commonly referred to as the Jirang Monastery. His Holiness the Dalai Lama opened the largest monastery in Eastern India there in 2010. Indian Buddhist monks travel from all over the country to study at the monastery, which doubles as a house and college. Other well-liked sights in the region are the Monastery at Labarasingh and the sitting Avalokiteswara statue of Mahendragad. Don’t overlook the Peace Pagoda located near Camp No. 4’s gate. Please be kind to the Tibetan population when interacting with them as they are known to be helpful to outsiders and visitors.
In conclusion, Odisha is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich Buddhist heritage of India. With its impressive collection of ancient monuments, stupas, monasteries, and temples, the state offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Buddhism in India. If you’re looking for an enriching travel experience, pack your bags and head to Odisha to visit these top Buddhist heritage sites in the state.
Buddhist Tours in Odisha is very much admired by millions of Buddhist pilgrims around the globe. To perceive details on Buddhism’s comprehensive guide to Buddhism and its significance thousands of tourists visit Odisha and explore the cosmic Buddhist Tourist Destinations. For more details, visit www.odishatourism.gov.in and to book your travel package, visit www.bookodisha.com
