Dhauli is just 8 km south of Bhubaneswar and situated on the banks of the picturesque river Daya.
Dhauli is not just any small town – it holds great significance for the followers of Lord Buddha, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Indian history. Legend has it that this is the very area where the Kalinga War took place in the 3rd century BC, between the Mauryan Empire led by Great Ashoka and the Kalinga kingdom.
The war was so intense that the river Daya ran red with blood.
But the story doesn’t end there. King Ashoka, after witnessing the brutal aftermath of the war, underwent a significant change in his beliefs and eventually adopted Buddhism. The town is home to several Ashoka edicts – rock structures with inscriptions on them – that bear witness to this transformation. And if that wasn’t enough, Ashoka also built several stupas, chaityas, and pillars around the town in his quest for peace and harmony.
One of the main attractions of Dhauli is the beautiful Peace Pagoda, or Shanti Stupa, which attracts thousands of tourists every year. It’s a big white building covered with intricate carvings, and is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine art. And if you’re a Lord Shiva devotee, you won’t be disappointed either – Dhauli has some ancient temples that are steeped in history and are sure to leave you feeling serene and blessed.
But the real showstopper in Dhauli is the night-time projection show on the white Peace Pagoda. State-of-the-art projectors beam laser rays onto the surface of the pagoda, creating a jaw-dropping 3D rendition of the town’s historical past. It’s like being transported back in time and living every moment of the history unfolding before you.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Dhauli, where history, art, and technology come together in a riot of fun and adventure. Who knew a small town could pack such a punch?