A Tour to Khandagiri, Udayagiri and Dhauli Buddhist Sites from Bhubaneshwar

Enjoy your day visiting the famous Buddhist sites of Odisha the Khandagiri, Udayagiri and Dhaulli hills

Highlights:

• Enjoy a day exploring the historical sites, the Udayagiri, Khandagiri, and Dhauli Giri Hills.
• Service of an experienced driver and a well-maintained car.

Detailed Overview:

Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, formerly called Kattaka Caves or Cuttack caves, are partly natural and partly artificial caves of archaeological, historical and religious importance, which are carved by monks in the earliest of 1st century BC. Admire their beautiful carvings and spend time learning about their culture in these sites. Later proceeding to Dhaulli Hill Caves where ancient rock edicts mark the emperor Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism.

Itinerary:

• Start your day early, around 7:30 AM, to maximize your time exploring.
• Arrive at Khandagiri around 8:00 AM. Explore the ancient rock-cut caves, which were once the dwellings of Jain monks. Don't miss the stunning views from the top of the hills.
• Head to Udayagiri, located nearby, around 10:30 AM. Discover more rock-cut caves, including significant Buddhist monasteries and stupas. The caves feature beautiful carvings and inscriptions.
• Enjoy a local meal at a nearby restaurant around 12:30 PM, sampling traditional Odia cuisine.
• Depart for Dhauli around 2:00 PM. Visit the famous Dhauli Peace Palace, built to commemorate Emperor Ashoka’s embrace of Buddhism. Explore the ancient rock monuments and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
• Take time to admire the Shanti Stupa, a symbol of peace and harmony, set against the backdrop of lush greenery.
• Begin your return trip to Bhubaneswar around 5:00 PM, reflecting on the historical and spiritual significance of the sites you’ve visited.
• Dinner in Bhubaneswar:
• Arrive back in Bhubaneswar and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel.