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Ashoka,
the Mauryan Emperor, inscribed his decrees on a rock
called the Ashoka rock edicts at the foot of Dhauli
hill. These are the earliest known inscribed records
in India. Above the edicts there is a sculpture of
an elephant, which is, the earliest known sculpture
in Orissa.
It is said that after Ashoka's army killed 150000
people in a battle near here, he renounced the path
of lord Buddha. There is a Japanese Buddhist peace
pagoda on top of this hill. The temple of lord Dhaveleswar
is at the top of the hill above the white-domed pagoda. |
This
hill is 8 km fro Bhubaneswar. The OTDC organized tours
are a convenient way to visit this spot. If you don't
travel in your own vehicle, be prepared to walk about
2 km from where the public bus lets you off.
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.
How to reach
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. |
