Buddhist sites in Odisha: Know 5 key places, local heritage, and transport details

Odisha, the land of Lord Jagannath, is renowned for its immense cultural heritage and spirituality across religions. Often termed as India’s best-kept secret, the tourism potential of the state lies relatively lesser-known but is in no way short of spectacular.

Along with revered Hindu pilgrimage sites, Bhubaneswar and its adjoining areas are also known to have centuries-old Buddhist sites of extreme importance. Notably, Odisha was the very state in which Emperor Ashoka adopted the path to peace after the Kalinga War. This aspect was also recently highlighted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address at the 2025 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Sammelan in Bhubaneswar.

To soak in this historic and spiritual endeavour, here are five Buddhist sites in Odisha, listed on Odisha Tourism’s official website, and how you can visit them:

1. Dhauligiri Pagoda (Dhauli Shanti Stupa), Bhubaneswar:

The Dhauli Shanti Stupa was built in 1972 to mark the historic Kalinga War and represents peace and Emperor Ashoka's transformation to Buddhism after the war. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, and explore the Shanti Stupa, Ashokan Rock Edicts, and other Buddhist structures, experiencing the site's tranquillity and history.

Nearby attractions include Lingaraj Temple, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Nandankanan Zoological Park, and the Odisha State Museum, offering a blend of spiritual and cultural experiences.

ALSO READ: Visit these 5 places in Odisha highlighted by PM Narendra Modi in 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas speech

2. Jiranga, Gajapati:

The Jiranga Monastery, located in Chandragiri, Gajapati district, is known as ‘Little Tibet’ due to its Tibetan culture and heritage. Established in 2010 and inaugurated by the Dalai Lama, it serves as a major centre for Tibetan Buddhism in Eastern India.

The serene environment, surrounded by lush green hills and the Khasada Waterfall, offers a peaceful retreat for visitors. Nearby attractions include the Jagannath Temple, Maa Kureisuni Temple, and various waterfalls like Khasada and Gudguda. Further, the monastery features traditional Tibetan architecture, a library with ancient Buddhist scriptures, and a main prayer hall adorned with murals and statues.

The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 254 km away, and the closest railway station is Berhampur, around 84 km away. Buses and private cabs from Berhampur or Bhubaneswar are suitable options to reach here.

3. Ratnagiri, Jajpur:

Ratnagiri, located in Jajpur district, Odisha, is a significant Buddhist archaeological site dating back to the 5th century CE. Known as the ‘Hill of Jewels,’ it features ancient monasteries, stupas, and intricate carvings.

Visitors can explore the Great Stupa, Monastery No. 1, and the Ratnagiri Archaeological Museum, which houses many fine sculptures and artefacts. Nearby attractions include Udayagiri and Lalitgiri, forming the Buddhist ‘Diamond Triangle,’ as well as the Biraja Temple and Langudi Hills.

The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 100 km away, and the closest railway station is Jajpur Road Railway Station, around 20 km away.

4. Lalitgiri, Jajpur:

Dating back to the 1st century CE, this archaeological Buddhist site sits along with Ratnagiri and Udayagiri and features a serene environment and hillside Buddhist stupa remains, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.

Nearby attractions and transportation details would remain almost identical to Ratnagiri and cabs from Bhubaneswar or Jajpur being suitable options.

ALSO READ: Eco-Retreat Odisha: Know all 7 locations, local attractions and transport details

5. Udayagiri, Jajpur:

Again a part of the ‘Diamond Triangle’, Udayagiri is also known as ‘The Hill of the Rising Sun’. Along with stupas, monasteries, and carvings, the site also has the Udayagiri Archaeological Museum, which provides a rich cultural and historical experience for visitors. Nearby attractions and transportation details would again remain almost identical to the above two sites of the Diamond Triangle.