Dhauli Stupa, Buddhist Monument Odisha

The rock outcropping on Dhauli at the bank of the river Daya, is a little away from the main road as one drives 8 km south of Bhubaneswar. It is the site of a set of rock edicts left by the Indian emperor Ashoka in about 260 BC.

The Odishan edicts, consisting of two special edicts not found elsewhere, are essentially public injunctions to the empire’s administrators in the area, enjoining them to rule with gentleness and justice: 
‘…these are my instructions to you. You are  in charge of many thousands of living beings. You should gain the affection of men. All men are my children, and as I desire for my children that they should obtain welfare and happiness both in this world and the next, the same do I desire for all men…’
The elephant which emerges from the rock above the inscription was probably meant to draw attention to the edict, and to serve as a symbol. Elephants are frequently associated with the Buddha, either as the form in which he is believed to have entered his mother’s womb, as the form the Buddha assumed in a previous incarnation, or as the sacred symbol of Buddhism itself.

Shanti Stupa at Dhauli, The serenity of the place and the legacy of Buddhism motivated the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha, under the guidance of Guruji Fujii, Founder President of Nipponzan Myohoji of Japan to establish a Peace Pagoda or Shanti Stupa at Dhauli along with the construction of the monastery called Saddharma Vihar in early seventies of 19th century. Along with the Ashokan Edicts, the Peace Pagoda and modern Buddhist Monastery, Dhauli offers the visitors small-rock cut caves.

Dhauli Tourism

Dhauli is a small town 8 Km away south of Bhubaneswar, located on the bank of river Daya and holds great significance for the followers of lord Buddha. Dhauli is said to be the witness of the reform of Ashoka’s character.

This is the area which is believed to the land for the Kalinga War in the 3rd century B.C. between the Mauryan Empire led by Great Ashoka and Kalinga kingdom. The war was so intense that it is said that Daya’s water had turned red with the bloodshed because of the massacre. This also led to significant change in the beliefs of King Ashoka and he eventually adopted Buddhism. His responses to this war were recorded in forms of Ashoka edicts, which are essentially rock structures with inscriptions on them. Dhauli has several major Ashoka edicts and it is now an important centre for Buddhism in India. Ashoka built several Stupas, Chaityas, Pillars around the town and did his best to create a peaceful society by helping others post war. Dhauli has a beautiful Peace Pagoda which attracts thousands of tourists every year. Besides Buddhists, There are also other attractions in Dhauli like rock cut caves, Sadharma vihar monastery, which would definitely make your visit worth the time.

Nearest Airport : Bhubaneswar
Nearest Railway Station : Bhubaneswar
How to Reach :

Air: Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport, well connected to major cities of India.

Rail : Bhubaneswar is a major station near Dhauli and well connected on the railway network of India.

Road: Dhauli can be reached by Bus, or rented Taxi. Auto rickshaws run too, but as usual, fix the amount before riding.