Wandering Destination : Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Bhubaneshwar (Part-I)

The pagoda, known as white peace pagoda, has been built by the Japan Buddha Sangha and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha in the 1970s. Ashoka fought his last battle, infamous Kalinga war, on the banks of river Daya flowing near by the place. It is said that water of the river turned red with blood on seeing which Ashoka realised the tragedy a war brings. He raised many chaityas, stupas and pillars. Many rock edicts have been discovered in the vicinity of this stupa place showing the inscribing made by King Ashoka.

The construction of Shanti Stupa of Dhauligiri was assisted by Fuji Guruji and therefore, the place became the place of devotion and worship for various people belonging to different generations. The overall structure of the stupa is in the shape of a dome. No doors, no rooms to be found. At a short distance from the Shanti Stupa, the temple of Dhavaleshwar is located. Temple was renovated in the year 1972 and is much frequented by Hindu as well as Buddhist devotees. Do visit Dhauligiri, appreciate the sculptures and explore this Buddhist attraction that add to the sacred significance of Dhauligiri in Orissa.

History of Shanti Stupa

Sculptures of lions : Such eight lions are located around stupa
in four directions looking away towards the city

Location:

It is located at Dhauli, a small village about 6 km away from Bhubaneshwar, and situated on the banks of river Daya.

Stupa can be approached by road with private vehicle, tourist bus (prior booking is required) or auto rickshaw. Auto Rickshaw may take about 300 rupees from Bhubaneshwar and back, waiting period included.

Entry fee and visiting time:

There is no entry fee to the stupa. However, toll is collected (rs 5 per vehicle) at the entry point to the village.

No time restriction. One can visit anytime. I advice not to visit very early or on late eve. The area is isolated and not safe.

Stone carvings on the walls of the stupa telling stories about the life of Buddha

Photography tips:

For photography morning time and dusk time would be preferable to shoot stupa with dramatic backgrounds.

Visit as often as you can at different times. I am sure, monument will appear very different every time you visit.

So many tourists visit this stupa. Getting human-free image of the sculptures may be difficult. Spend more time, be patient and grab the right moment.