Situated by the river Daya, Dhauli hill is an important Buddhist tourist destination, near Bhubaneswar, for the ancient sculptures and the extraordinary art forms that have been found here. The hills are also famous for the Kalinga war that is famous for the transformation of Ashoka, into Buddhism.

Ashoka, one of the foremost followers and patrons of Buddhism, was converted to Buddhism at this place, the signs of which are available abundantly. The place has beautiful landscapes and a charm that can affect the mind in a splendid way, to change it spiritual, and hence soothe from many cares of life.

Location
Situated at a distance of 8 km from Bhubaneswar, the hills rise high near river Daya, in the Khurda district of Orissa.

Attractions
The peace pagoda remains at the top of the tourist choices for the delicate structure of the stupa and the monastery near it. The Saddharma Vihar monastery and the Shanti Stupa make the Buddhist pilgrim a special attraction, and a place to feel eternal peace of mind. Built by Buddha Sangha, in the early seventies, with the influence of Guruji Fuji, this stupa adds to the charm of an important Buddhist location.

Besides, there are many other sculptures to be seen in Dhauli. The main of the artifacts, ancient and archaeologically invaluable is the Ashokan edicts. These are specific due to the inscriptions, written on rock, some of them by Ashoka himself, and are rare pieces of art.

However, not only in Buddhism but also for Hinduism, Dhauili is a pilgrimage. The rock cut caves, small Hindu temples known to belong to the medieval age, A Shiva temple on top of hill are other attractions of this place.

Accessibility
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.

Buddhist Caves in India

Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra | Ellora Caves, Maharashtra | Kanheri Caves, Maharashtra Karla Caves, Maharashtra | Junnar Caves, Maharashtra | Bhaja Caves, Maharashtra Nagarjunakonda, Andhra Pradesh | Barabar Caves, Bihar | Udaigiri Caves, Orissa Khandgiri Caves, Orissa | Ratnagiri Caves, Orissa | Lalitagiri Caves, Orissa Dhauli Caves, Orissa