Bhubaneshwar Tour Information
Dhauli (8km)
The historic site is located on the Puri Konark highway, across Dhauli hill on the banks of river Daya. The 3rd century BC Ashokan Rock Edicts, on the foot of the hill indicate that the great ‘Kalinga war’ was fought here. The bloody war transformed emperor Ashoka, who renounced his blood thirsty campaign and embraced Buddhism. A Buddhist Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) was established on the opposite hill in the early seventies by the Japan Buddha Sangha and kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha.
Khadagiri and Udaygiri Cave (7km)
The rock-cut caves at the twin hills of Khandagiri and Udaygiri, were the ancient Jain monasteries and are one of the most important Orissan historical monuments. The caves dating back to 2nd century BC, were carved out by the first known Orissan ruler, Kharavela. The famous Hathi Gumpha (‘Elephant Cave’) and Rani Gumpha (‘Queens Cave’) here are adorned withearly sculptural art depicting the life and times of Jain ascetics.
Atri (42km)
It is well known for the hot sulphur water spring and the temple of Lord Hatakeswar. The spring water is said to possess curative properties.
Nandan Kanan Zoo (20km)
The beautiful zoo carved out of the Chandaka forest is perhaps the finest in the country. The animals are kept in their natural habitat and a centrally located lake divides the Zoo from the Botanical Gardens. The zoo is famous for white tigers as well as migratory birds, which come here during winters. It also has the country’s largest Lion Safari Park and White Tiger Safari with Ropeway and Toy Train.
Cuttack (30km)
Cuttack is said to found by Nripati Kesari (920-935) and is one of the oldest towns in Orissa. It lies at the head of the Mahanadi delta and is virtually an island surrounded by the great river and its tributary, the kathajuri. A stone embankment on the Kathajuri river, built in the 11th century by a king of Kesari dynasty is a marvel of engineering. A shrine of Kadam Rasul set in the heart of the town enshrines some holy relics of Prophet Mohammad, which were bought from Mecca. The ruins of 14th century Barabati Fort are about 3 km north of the city centre.
Paradeep (94km)
It is a major sea port and a fine beach resort.
Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, Udayagiri
These three hills have ruins of a remarkable Buddhist complex. Hieun-T’sang, the Chinese pilgrim found it to be the seat of a flourishing Buddhist University called “Puspagiri”. Extensive ruins of brick pagodas, sculptured stone portals and esoteric Buddhist images have been excavated from here. Ratnagiri is 70km. Lalitgiri is 55km and Udayagiri is 60km from Cuttack.