Shanti Stupa of Dhauligiri is also popularly called the Peace Pagoda. Dhauligiri is situated around 7 km from Bhubaneswar. Shanti Stupa lies on the way as one travels from Bhubaneswar to Puri. The word ‘shanti’ literally means peace. After King Ashoka chose to follow the path of peace and non-violence and turned to Buddhism, he laid the foundation of Dhauli Shanti Stupa at Puri, where the Kalinga War was fought. Inside the premises, you can find the edict of Lord Buddha that tourists from around the world travel to catch a glimpse and seek peace for themselves.
About The Dhauli Shanti Stupa
Image Credit: Sailesh Patnaik for Wikimedia
Dhauli Hill is believed to be the area where the popular Kalinga War (261 BCE) was fought. The Kalinga War was between the Mauryan Dynasty, led by King Asoka, and the Kalinga Kingdom. Shanti Stupa of Dhauligiri was built in 1972 under the assistance of Fuji Guruji. It gradually became the local’s favourite spot for worship and devotion, and then tourism began. Tourists can see several stupas and pillars built under King Ashoka’s leadership. Several edicts exhibit King Ashoka’s intention to promote and encourage peace and contentment worldwide. You can also find an ancient elephant rock, which is believed to be one of the oldest Buddhist sculptures here.
Must Read: Tourist Places In Odisha
Places To Visit Near Dhauli Shanti Stupa
This Stupa is an essential monument in the Buddhist culture. Odisha is home to many beautiful temples and monuments among them. Here is a curated list of places to visit near Dhauli Shanti Stupa:
1. World Peace Pagoda
Image Credit: Madrishh for Wikimedia
The most prominently famous structure in Dhauli is the World Peace Pagoda, ‘the Vishwa Shanti Stupa’, a significant site for Buddhist devotees in Odisha. It was built in 1972 by the Japanese Buddha Sangh and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangh. While the peace stupa is the area’s main attraction, several structures built by King Asoka say a lot about his devotion and contribution towards Buddhism. The statue of a reclining Buddha is a must-see here, along with images and sculptures of a Bodhi tree, the footprints of Buddha bearing the Chakra and an elephant procession.
2. Pipli
Image Credit: Sumit Surai for Wikimedia
Just about 12 km from Dhauli, the village of Pipli lies at the top of places to visit near the Shanti Stupa. It is most famous for the colourful Chandua applique art that has assumed country-wide recognition and welcomes all tourists to Odisha with open arms. Pipli village has a profound history that goes back to the 12th century. The craftsmen and artists here practised their craft from their ancestors, who once worked for the kingdom’s royals. If you love shopping, you can find an array of items in the shops here, like outfits, handbags, puppets and many other goods made with applique and patchwork.
Suggested Read: Offbeat Places In Odisha
3. Dhavaleshwar Temple
Image Credit: Nirmalbarik for Wikipedia
The temple is dedicated to Lord Dhavaleshwar, an avatar of Lord Shiva. Dhavaleshwar Temple is just a little far away from the Dhauli Shanti Stupa. While the Shanti Stupa is a significant site for tourists and Buddhist devotees, more Hindu devotees visit this temple. The temples here are praised for their beautiful architecture. Tourists love visiting Odisha’s temples because of their peaceful ambience and structural beauty. Dhavaleshwar Temples is one such place for you.
4. Nandankanan National Park
Image Credit: Abhas Kumar Kheti for Wikipedia
With a wildlife zoo and botanical garden in Bhubaneswar, visiting Nandankanan Park will be a fun adventure for all, especially children. It is the first zoo in India to join the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and a significant part of it has also been made into a sanctuary. You can find hundreds and thousands of wildlife species here, but the zoo’s highlight is the white tiger, and tourists come here from far and wide to glimpse it. In 2008, the park launched a program called ‘Adopt-an-Animal’ where adopters pay a certain amount for the animal’s yearly responsibilities and needs. If you are an animal lover visiting Odisha, this is the place for you!
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Dhauli Shanti Stupa Location And Timings
Image Credit: Sharda Crishna for Wikimedia
It is situated in the town of Dhauli in Odisha. Dhauli is a historically abundant town about 20 km outside Odisha’s capital, Bhubaneshwar. The peace stupa lies along the banks of the Daya River and is well-known for the Kalinga War, fought on the vast expanse of lush plains by the river. Dhauli is a hill known as Dhaulagiri, and the way to the summit is lined by several edicts with the insightful teachings of King Asoka engraved on them. Even though Buddhist and Hindu devotees visit the place more frequently, the splendour and historical value of Dhauli and the stupa attract many tourists here. Shanti Stupa’s opening and closing times are 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. every day, and it is not closed on public Holidays.
Dhauli Shanti Stupa Travel Route
By Air – The nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, just 13 km away. It is the only international airport in Odisha with a domestic terminal connecting the metro cities. Buses and cabs are available from the airport to reach your destination.
By Rail—Bhubaneswar Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Dhauli, and you must cover the remaining journey by road. Many regular trains operate between the capital and other major cities and are easily accessible.
By Road—Odisha has great road connectivity, whether it is in major cities or small towns and villages. Buses, private cars, taxis, and rickshaws are easily available for those who want to complete the journey via road.
Further Read: Temples In Odisha
Now that you know all the attractive tips for visiting Dhauli Shanti Stupa, the next step is to pack your bags and set out for a fantastic trip to Odisha. Book your tickets ASAP! Odisha is an entirely religious and serene place. If you want to submerge in the tranquillity and explore India’s spiritual and cultural areas, do add this to your iternerary.
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Cover Image Credit: Debashis Pradhan for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Dhauli Shanti Stupa
What is the average temperature in Odisha all year round?
The usual average temperature in Odisha is around 25 degrees Celsius in Summer from March till June. Around the end of February, the weather starts to go high and humid and the average temperature during that time is 36 degrees Celsius.
What is the best time to visit Dhauli?
The most convenient season to visit Dhauli is during winter. The overall daytime climate is pleasant all through the season to explore the local spots. Night-time temperatures can go really low and it is advised to carry woollen clothes during the winters.
Is there any entry fee to enter the premises?
The entry fee to visit Dhauli Shanti Stupa is Rs 25 for adults and Rs 10 for students.
What are some popular local dishes in Odisha?
Dahi Baigana, Khichdi and Dalma are some popular dishes of Odisha that every tourist must try whenever they visit the state.
How much time does it take to cover the Dhauli Shanti Stupa?
It takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore the Dhauli Shanti Stupa premises.
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