Dhauli Hill, Buddhist places you can visit in Odisha

Dhauli Hill is a hill located on the banks of the river Daya, about 8 km south of Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha in eastern India. It is an important historical site for Buddhists as it is believed to be the place where Emperor Ashoka, one of the most prominent rulers of ancient India, converted to Buddhism after the Kalinga War in 261 BC.

The hill is famous for the rock edicts of Emperor Ashoka, which were inscribed in Pali language and Brahmi script on a rock surface at the foot of the hill. These edicts, which are among the earliest known examples of Indian writing, proclaim Ashoka’s adherence to the principles of Buddhism and his commitment to non-violence and social welfare.

Dhauli Hill also has a number of other Buddhist structures, including a large white peace pagoda, also known as the Shanti Stupa, built by the Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii in the 1970s. The pagoda has four statues of Lord Buddha facing the four cardinal directions and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Apart from the Buddhist structures, Dhauli Hill is also known for its scenic beauty and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Daya River and the nearby Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary.

Overall, Dhauli Hill is an important historical and spiritual site for Buddhists and a popular tourist attraction in Odisha. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian history and culture, and especially for those interested in the history and teachings of Buddhism