Even though Lord Buddha, the Enlightened One, never visited the eastern Indian state of Orissa during his lifetime, Orissa has a great Buddhist connection and has several famous Buddhist spots that show the state's close links with Buddhism and Lord Buddha. The discovery of many Buddhist monasteries, stupas and images in Orissa bear testimony to this.
The renowned Chinese pilgrim Hieun Tsang had visited Orissa in the seventh century and had found Buddhism flourishing there. In fact, Buddhism (Mahayana) was a leading religion in the state till the 15th century AD. No wonder, Orissa is regarded an important Buddhist destination and its many Buddhist spots such as Dhauli, Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udaygiri are considered significant Buddhist spots. These and many other Buddhist spots of Orissa much attract those on the trail of Lord Buddha.
Dhauli
One of the most significant Buddhist sites in the world, Dhauli is much renowned for its 3rd century Asoka edicts, the Shanti Stupa or Peace Pagoda, and the nearby Buddhist monastery. Besides, it was here that the emperor Asoka underwent a change of heart after the massacre of Kalinga. This event proved to be of great significance as it changed the cultural history of the world and made Buddhism a leading religion in not only the Indian sub continent but also the entire world.
Lalitgiri
This magnificent Buddhist spot has one of the earliest Buddhist complexes in the world believed to be made in the 1st century AD. With several rock-cut caves, viharas, chaityas, monasteries, stupas, and caskets of stone with Buddhist relics that throw much light on the history of Buddhism, Lalitgiri is indeed an important Buddhist destination.
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri located in the Jajpur district of Orissa has excellent Buddhist ruins, sculptures, large monasteries, shrines, big stupas, and a colossal statue of Lord Buddha which much attract the visitors to the state. However, it is the wonderful Pushpagiri monastery that is really the pride of the place.
Udaygiri
A renowned pilgrimage destination, Udaygiri is the largest Buddhist site in Orissa and is much famous for the Avalokitesvara statue of Lord Buddha. This statue of Buddha is unique as here the Enlightened One, i.e., Lord Buddha, is depicted having long flowing tresses.
