Dhauli is 8 km South of Bhubaneshwar. In the year 272 B.C. The great Ashoka dynasties legendary king "Ashoka the Great" looked down from over the vast expanse of the verdant countryside littered with bodies after a fierce battle. Even after a well fought victory the sight of the aftermath of the war-death and destruction horrified him and resulted in Ashoka the Great's transformation, he channeled his energy, which he spent in winning wars and conquering.

Kingdom after kingdom is spiritual pursuit. He became a Buddhist and started following Buddha’s teachings and austere ways of leading life. All the destruction made him think about the ephemeral nature of all earthly things and the utter uselessness of running after these earthly possessions which cease after death. He also pondered about the usefulness of wars which brings in its wake nothing but death, destruction and misery to mankind, therefore what was its use or merit-none. It was due to this awakening that Ashoka the Great warrior became a follower of Buddhism and spent the rest of life spreading the teachings of Buddha far and wide that is Orrisa, India and beyond. Carvings of the head and forelegs of an elephant emerging from the rock mark the spot where the change of heart and transformation of Ashoka occurred. It is said to be the oldest rock cut sculpture in India (3rd century B.C.)- This image is symbolic and it symbolizes the birth of Buddha (the enlightened) and the emergence of Buddhism.

The rock edicts at the bottom hill (and the other at Jau gada) dating from 260 B.C. suggest that the conquered area may have had two administrative headquarters. On these rock edicts, instructions to his administrators how to rule his subjects are carved on stones which are as follows. "You are in charge of many 4 is translated thousand living beings. You should gain the affection of men. All men are my children, and as I desire for my children that they obtain welfare and happiness both in this world and the nent, the same do I desire for all men..." These edicts shed light on the miraculous transformator of a Great King from a ruthlessly ambitious warrior to a benevolent and highly evolved soul dedicating his later life to Buddist way of life. These inscriptions on these rocks are remarkably clear even after 2000 years of expose.

After the building up of the "Shanti Pagoda" in 1972 the rock-edicts are ignored by the busloads of tourist that are taken up the hill to see the "Buddhist Peace Pagoda".

Dhauli is about 8km south of Bhubaneshwar. One can reach Dhauli by road from Bhubaneshwar either by bus, autorickshaw or a taxi.

Climate
Being close to Bhubaneshwar the climate is the same as that of the capital city.

Season Same as that of Bhubaneshwar.

Languages  Oriya, Hindi and English.

Places of Interest
Up the hill here there is an alluring white structure called the "Peace Pagoda" or Shanti Stupa. All around the hill till where the eye can see-the view is magnificent, the green expanse of paddy fields dancing along with the breeze is soothing to other and the cashew eyes trees. One can also see the meandering Daya River.

This Stupa is visible from most points in Bhubaneshwar, the striking white domed building, topped with several umbrella like protrusions, resembles a massive alien and ethereal structure.

The "Shanti Stupa" or the "Peace Pagoda" is a Buddhist structure built jointly in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangh and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangh.
Beyond the Stupa is an old Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Dhavaleshwar, which was reconstructed in 1972, is also on the hilltop here.

Accommodation
Being just 8 km from Bhubaneshwar good accommodation can be availed off at Bhubaneshwar.
Dhauli near Bhubaneshwar is an interesting place to visit. This place is part of the many package tours available in Bhubaneshwar. So do not miss it while on a visit to the Temple City of Bhubaneshwar.

Conducted Tours
Tour of Bhubaneshwar, Kandgiri-Udayagiri, Dauli, Nandan-Kanan and museum is available amongst the various tours option available. It’s a full day tour.

Bookings
Booking and information regarding the tours is available at
Orissa Tourism, Panthrivas. Tel. No. 431299.