Buddhism began to spread across Odisha after the invasion of emperor Ashoka and the legendary Kalinga war, after which the emperor followed Buddhism, a peaceful religion. Several monasteries and important Buddhist settlements were built in the state of Odisha. One of the most prominent things about this was that these were built on hills. Today all these settlements and monasteries are prominent Buddhist heritage sites.
In Buddhism, Nirvana is a state that refers to the condition of detachment, and you can experience a blissful aura that liberates the soul from the rebirth cycle. Suppose you are looking forward to visiting Odisha. In that case, consider visiting the Buddhist sites mentioned here, as your trip is incomplete without getting some rejuvenation vibes from these great sites.
Listed below are the top 6 Buddhist sites in Odisha:
1. Diamond Triangle of Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri and Udayagiri
One of Odisha’s most prominent Buddhist circuits is also known as the diamond triangle. Lalithagiri is one of the oldest Buddhist sites, with ruins of a monastery built in the first century. The monastery was a center for the Mahayana and Hinayana sects of Buddhism. The ruins comprise the main stupa or Maha stupa and prayer hall.
Udayagiri is another Buddhist heritage site that is nestled near Lalithagiri. You can find ruins of two monasteries at this place. there are some amazing sculptures that you can come across and a great lion statue nestled at the base of Udayagiri hill. One of the best excavated Buddhist sites in Odisha is Ratnagiri, a time ago rivalled Nalanda. The monastery here is special, with a Maha stupa and different statues of Buddha.
How to Reach: Located just one hundred kilometers from Bhubaneswar, the state capital, these sites are accessible by road.
Location: Jajpur District, Odisha
Historical Significance: The Diamond Triangle is a renowned Buddhist complex consisting of the three sites of Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udayagiri. These sites are known for their ancient stupas, monasteries, and relics, dating back to the 1st century CE.
Nearby Attractions: Langudi Hill, Biraja Temple
Activities: Exploring ancient stupas and monasteries, visiting archaeological museums, learning about Buddhist history
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Practical Tips: Allocate a full day to explore all three sites thoroughly. Hiring a local guide can enhance your understanding of the historical context. Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water.
2. Dhauli and Dhauligiri
It is one of the best heritage sites in Odisha. The Buddhist destination keeps a prominent place in the history of Odisha. It is believed that the Kalinga war took place. You can find some amazing rock edicts of Ashoka king in this place.
It is considered that the rock-cut elephant here above the educate is the earliest Buddhist sculpture of Odisha. There are also ancient Buddhist monuments inside the caves, which were built by the Japanese Buddhist sangha in the 1970s.
How to reach: the place is just eight kilometers away from Bhubaneshwar. So, if you are in Odisha or the capital city of Odisha, you can take this day trip to witness the beautiful Buddhist site.
Location: 8 km south of Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Historical Significance: Dhauli is a significant site where the Kalinga War took place, leading Emperor Ashoka to embrace Buddhism. The Dhauligiri Shanti Stupa, built by the Japanese Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha, stands as a symbol of peace.
Nearby Attractions: Lingaraj Temple, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
Activities: Visiting the Shanti Stupa, exploring rock edicts of Ashoka, learning about the Kalinga War
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Practical Tips: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Don’t miss the light and sound show in the evening. There are several small eateries nearby for refreshments.
3. Jirang
Jiranaga is also prominently known as Tibet of Odisha. In 1959 after the Chinese invasion, a group settled here when the Tibetans had left the nation and came to India.
In 2010 Padmasambhava Monastery was inaugurated. Even though there is no Buddhist culture alive year, you would be just amazed by the beauty of this beautiful sight.
How to Reach: The Buddhist site is nestled near Brahmapur city, which is 100 kilometers away. This place is your best bet if you are in Brahmapur and look forward to exploring other things. You can also visit the famous Gopalpur sea beach near the Buddhist site and make the most of your day trip.
Location: Gajapati District, Odisha
Historical Significance: Jirang, also known as Padmasambhava Mahavihara Monastery, is the largest Buddhist monastery in Eastern India. It serves as a center for Tibetan Buddhism and is home to many monks.
Nearby Attractions: Chandragiri, Mahendragiri Hill
Activities: Visiting the monastery, attending meditation sessions, exploring the surrounding landscapes
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Practical Tips: Respect the monastery’s rules and regulations, and consider participating in meditation or prayer sessions for a more immersive experience. Accommodation is available at the monastery for those wishing to stay.
4. Kuruma
Kuruma is a quiet village near Konark, where you can see the Buddhist monastery’s ruins that go back to the 9th and 10th centuries. Today you can just come across the shrines and the remains of the blocks. The Buddhist heritage site in Odisha is close to the coast.
How to Reach: the place is nestled seven kilometers from Konark town, home to the prominent sun temple.
Location: Near Konark, Odisha
Historical Significance: Kuruma is an ancient Buddhist site known for its brick stupas, votive stupas, and sculptures dating back to the 9th-10th centuries CE. It’s believed to be one of the places visited by the famous Chinese traveler, Hiuen Tsang.
Nearby Attractions: Konark Sun Temple, Chandrabhaga Beach
Activities: Exploring ancient ruins, learning about early Buddhist architecture, visiting nearby Konark
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Practical Tips: Combine your visit to Kuruma with a trip to the Konark Sun Temple for a comprehensive historical tour. The site is best visited during the winter months. Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
5. Balasore and Bhadrak District
Balasore is one of the best places for tourists, and there are amazing tourist attractions, including ancient palaces and Chandpur beach. These places make it one of the most visited places in Odisha for tourists. But least known about this place is the connection with Buddhism and the Buddhist sites.
When you visit this place, you can see the ruins of a Buddhist monastery and temple in Kupari. Several statues and Buddhist ruins can also be seen across the Bhadrak district. Here you can find the ruins of ancient Buddhist monasteries and temples.
How to Reach: Balasore district is around 194 kilometers away from Bhuvneshwar and 150 kilometers away from Kolkata. Bhadrak district is just sixty-five kilometers from Balasore.
Location: Northern Odisha
Historical Significance: These districts are home to several lesser-known but significant Buddhist sites, including the ruins of ancient monasteries and stupas. The area has been an important center of Buddhist learning and culture.
Nearby Attractions: Chandipur Beach, Bhadrakali Temple
Activities: Exploring ancient ruins, visiting local museums, learning about regional Buddhist history
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Practical Tips: Plan your trip with a local guide who can help you locate and understand the scattered historical sites in these districts. Comfortable walking shoes and hydration are essential.
6. Langudi Hill
Odisha is home to several Buddhist heritage sites. One of those is Langudi Hill. It is nestled in Jajpur. Several monuments and ruins are found on the top of a hill in Langudi. The ruins were earlier identified as Pushpa Giri. Some of the ruins include the remains of rock-cut stupas and rock-cut caves.
How to Reach: the amazing Buddhist heritage site is just located close to Lalithagiri and Udayagiri, which are around 20 kilometers from these sites. So, if you are looking forward to going on a diamond triangle tour, you should not forget to visit this site.
Location: Jajpur District, Odisha
Historical Significance: Langudi Hill is an important archaeological site with numerous rock-cut stupas, votive stupas, and Buddhist sculptures dating back to the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE. It’s believed to be part of an ancient Buddhist monastic complex.
Nearby Attractions: Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, Udayagiri
Activities: Exploring rock-cut stupas, learning about ancient Buddhist practices, visiting nearby archaeological sites
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Practical Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, and carry water and snacks as the site is quite expansive. Early morning visits are ideal to avoid the heat. Engage with local guides to gain insights into the site’s historical significance.
Odisha has a lot to offer, and if you are enthusiastic about Buddhism, then you should not think twice before visiting this place. You need to pack your bags and book a flight, and you can experience Buddhism like never before.
Click here for additional information on Odisha:
- Odisha’s 20 Famous Destinations to Visit
- 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Odisha
- Odisha’s 10 Most Famous Waterfalls
- Top 10 Famous Temples in Odisha
- 5 Romantic Getaways in Odisha for Honeymoon
FAQs
1. What are some famous Buddhist monasteries in Odisha?
Jirang Monastery: Also known as Padmasambhava Mahavihara Monastery, it is the largest Buddhist monastery in Eastern India, located in the Gajapati district.
2. Where can I find Buddhist monuments in Odisha?
- Dhauli Shanti Stupa: A famous peace pagoda located near Bhubaneswar.
- Ratnagiri Monastery: Known for its ruins of ancient monasteries and stupas.
3. What is the history of Jirang Monastery?
Jirang Monastery, established in 2010, was built by the Tibetan Buddhist community and serves as a center for spiritual learning and meditation.
4. Are there any Buddhist temples near Bhubaneswar?
- Dhauli Shanti Stupa: Located about 8 km from Bhubaneswar.
- Buddha Vihar, Bhubaneswar: A serene place for Buddhist worship and meditation.
5. What are some significant Buddhist places to visit in Odisha?
Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udayagiri: Known as the Diamond Triangle of Odisha, these sites are famous for their ancient monasteries and stupas.
6. Is there a Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Odisha?
Yes, the Jirang Monastery in Gajapati district is a well-known Tibetan Buddhist monastery.
7. What can I find at the Dhauli Caves?
Dhauli Caves: Known for their historical significance and ancient rock-cut architecture related to Buddhism.
8. What is the significance of Langudi Hill in Odisha?
Langudi Hill: An important archaeological site with Buddhist stupas and sculptures dating back to ancient times.
9. What are the visiting hours for Jirang Monastery?
Jirang Monastery: Open to visitors from 8 AM to 6 PM. It’s advisable to check for any special events or closures before planning a visit.
10. Are there any Buddhist sites near Puri?
Kuruma: An ancient Buddhist site located about 8 km from Konark and near Puri, known for its archaeological remains.
