Introduction to Dhauli Bhubaneswar

Dhauli is a small village located on the banks of the Daya River, around 8 km south of Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. Dhauli is a significant historical and religious site that holds great significance in Indian history. Dhauli is believed to be the site where the Kalinga War took place, which was fought between the Mauryan Empire and the Kalinga kingdom in 261 BCE. The Kalinga War was a turning point in Indian history, as it marked the end of Emperor Ashoka’s military conquests and the beginning of his reign as a Buddhist king.

How to reach Dhauli

Dhauli is well connected by road and rail. Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport and railway station, from where you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Dhauli. The journey from Bhubaneswar to Dhauli takes around 30 minutes by road.

Things to do in Dhauli

Dhauli offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top things to do in Dhauli:

1. Visit the Shanti Stupa

The Shanti Stupa, also known as the Peace Pagoda, is a white-domed structure that stands atop a hill overlooking the Daya River. The Shanti Stupa was built by the Japanese Buddhist monk, Nichidatsu Fujii, in 1972 to commemorate Emperor Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism after the Kalinga War. The Shanti Stupa is a symbol of peace and non-violence and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

2. Explore the Dhauli Hill

Dhauli Hill is a significant historical site that is believed to be the site of the Kalinga War. The hill is dotted with ancient rock edicts, which were inscribed by Emperor Ashoka after the war. The rock edicts contain messages of peace, compassion, and religious tolerance, making them a valuable source of information about Emperor Ashoka’s reign.