Dhauli

Introduction
This place belongs to the well-known transformation of Ashoka the Great. The incidence ocurred in 272 BC. is recognized as one of the most important events in Asia, leave alone India. After winning the war against Kalinga, the Emperor was overpowered by the deep sense of guilt, repulsion and nausea after looking at the overall catastrophe everywhere. This impact culminated into his total transfomation. He vowed to relenquish the violence forever and became Buddhist. His phenomenal efforts spread the message of Buddhism in every corner of India and beyond. Buddhism, a major Asian religion now, proves that the infuence was ever-lasting.

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Location & Climate
It is 8 km south of Bhuvaneshwar. The temperature in the region fluctuates between 40*C & 20*C in summer and between 28*C & 16*C in winter. To pay the visit to the place between Octobar to April is recommonded.


Sightseeing
Carvings of an elephant, emerging from the rock at Dhauli, mark the spot where the incidence happened. This oldest rock-cut sculpture in India is a symbol of the birth of Buddha and the emergence of Buddhism. The instructions for the administrators have been carved out on the rock edicts at Dhauli and Jau-Gada, dating circa 260 BC. But the 'Shanti Stupa' or Peace Pagoda, build in 1972, have outplaced the edicts as the main tourist attraction.

This is an attractive white structure on the top of the hill. The Peace Pagoda is surrounded by the green paddy fields dancing along the breeze. You can also see the circuitous Daya river from here.

This pagoda is a Buddhist landmark. It has been developed by Japan Buddha Sangh and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangh. The stupa, looking like a huge other-worldly structure, is visible from almost everywhere in Bhuvaneshwar.

An old Hindu temple of Lord Dhawaleshwar (renovated in 1972) is another edifice on the top of the hill.


Accommodation Options
It's better to stay at Bhuvaneshwar itself; as this is just 8 km from Dhauli. The hotels at Bhuvaneshwar are properly providing the world class services to the guests. Some hotels at Bhuvnaneshwar are including these.

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Accessibility
You can reach Dhauli from Bhuvaneshwar by bus or taxi in minutes. Bhuvaneshwar, the city capital, is a major airport & railway head and well-connected with the other important destinations of the country.

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