Explore the timeless Buddhist heritage of Odisha with Alternative Tours
Odisha’s Buddhist heritage is maintained in its rock edicts, stupas, monasteries, and old learning centres, which continue to draw scholars, pilgrims, and visitors from all over the world.
At Alternative Tours, we curate specialized Buddhist heritage tours in Odisha, covering major sites like Dhauli, Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udayagiri, Jiranga Monastery etc.
Odisha offers a unique opportunity to experience the roots of Buddhism in India.
The origins of Buddhism in Odisha date back to the 2nd century B.C.
Since the 2nd century B.C., Odisha and Buddhism have been interwined , and these places bear witness to a legacy, that is being lost in a vividly diverse nation.
TOP BUDDHIST DESTINATIONS IN ODISHA
Dhauli
- Shanti-Stupa-
- Asoka Rock-edicts
Following Asoka, the Buddhist tradition flourished in Odisha until the late medieval period.
The war that changed history- Kalinga war- In the year 261 bc, the war was fought in Dhauli, near Bhubaneswar, 2,50,000 men lost their lives in one of the bloodiest wars in history.
It is reported that the blood of martyrs caused the surrounding Daya River to turn red.
However, it permanently altered both human history and Ashoka. It was his first and last war.
Buddhism flourished in Odisha immediately following the Asoka’s victory In the Kalinga War in 261 BC
Pushpagiri (Diamond Triangle)
Sites like Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udayagiri, collectively known as the Diamond Triangle of Odisha, are among the most important Buddhist remains in India.
These locations bear witness to a legacy that is being lost in a nation that is incredibly diverse
The Mahayana school of Buddhism, saw great success in the Asiatic hill range:
- LALITGIRI- Among the oldest Buddhist sites in Odisha, famed for its relic casket believed to contain the sacred remains of Lord Buddha.
- RATNAGIRI -Known as the “Jewel Hill,” this site flourished between the 5th–13th centuries with grand stupas and exquisite Buddhist sculptures.
- UDAYGIRI- The largest Buddhist monastic complex in Odisha, with sprawling ruins of prayer halls, stupas, and monasteries nestled in serene hills.
JirangaMonastery : The Largest Monastery in Eastern India .
It is a magnificent Tibetan Buddhist monastery and one of the largest in Eastern India. Built in traditional Tibetan style, the monastery is dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava, the revered spiritual master.
Little Tibet of Odisha–Chandragiri
Home to a vibrant Tibetan settlement, it offers visitors a glimpse into Tibetan culture, traditions, and monastic life. Surrounded by lush hills, Chandragiri is famous for its prayer flags, butter tea, handmade Tibetan woolens, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it feel like a Himalayan village nestled in Odisha.
With Alternative Tours, you embark on more than a sightseeing trip; you take a journey into the heart of spiritual India.
With expert guides, comfortable travel, and carefully designed itineraries, we make your journey seamless and enriching.
Plan your Buddhist Tour with Alternative Tours today and let us design a package that resonates with your journey of discovery.