Are you looking for a destination that combines history, spirituality, and natural beauty? Look no further than Dhauli, a suburb of the ancient city of Bhubaneswar in the Indian state of Odisha. Dhauli is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring India’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour of Dhauli and guide you on how to plan your trip to this unique destination.
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.
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:
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.
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.
The Dhauli Peace Park is a sprawling park located at the foot of Dhauli Hill. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, a meditation center, and a museum that showcases the history of Dhauli and Emperor Ashoka’s reign.
Dhauli is located close to several ancient temples that are worth exploring. Some of the top temples near Dhauli include the Lingaraj Temple, the Mukteswara Temple, and the Rajarani Temple.
One of the most relaxing and serene activities you can enjoy in Dhauli is taking a boat ride on the Daya River. The river is an important part of the history and culture of the region and is considered sacred by the locals. The boat ride offers a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape and is a great way to unwind and take in the beauty of the region.
You can rent a boat from the Dhauli Peace Park and take a leisurely ride down the river. As you sail along, you can take in the stunning views of the hills and forests that surround the river. You may also spot some exotic bird species and other wildlife that inhabit the region.
No trip to Dhauli would be complete without indulging in some of the local cuisine. Odisha is known for its delicious and diverse culinary traditions, and Dhauli offers plenty of opportunities to sample some of the best dishes in the region.
Some of the must-try dishes in Dhauli include the famous Odia pithas, a type of sweet cake made with rice flour, jaggery, and coconut. Another popular dish is the chhena poda, a delicious baked cheese cake that is a specialty of Odisha. You can also try some of the spicy curries and seafood dishes that are popular in the region.
Dhauli is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which are an important part of the local culture and heritage. Some of the most popular festivals in Dhauli include the Dhauli Kalinga Mahotsav, which celebrates the region’s history and culture, and the Chandan Yatra, which is a grand celebration of Lord Jagannath’s journey to the sea.
Attending a festival in Dhauli is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and get a glimpse of the traditions and customs of the region.
Dhauli is also known for its exquisite handicrafts, which are made by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. Some of the popular handicrafts in Dhauli include the famous Pattachitra paintings, which are intricate and colorful paintings on cloth, and the Dokra art, which is a type of brass casting that is unique to Odisha.
You can visit the local markets and shops to explore the wide range of handicrafts available in Dhauli and learn more about the traditional techniques used to make them.
Dhauli is a hidden gem in the heart of Odisha that offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a spiritual seeker, Dhauli has something to offer everyone. From exploring the ancient rock edicts on Dhauli Hill to taking a boat ride on the Daya River, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Dhauli. So plan your trip to Dhauli today and experience the magic of this ancient and beautiful city.
