About Buddha Statue Archaeological Site
The Buddha Statue Archaeological Site in Boudh, Odisha, is an open-air Buddhist archaeological site located in Boudh town on the banks of the Mahanadi River. It is known for large stone images of Buddha in bhumisparsha mudra dating to around 8th-10th century CE. The site reflects Boudh's history as a major centre of Vajrayana Buddhism and is maintained as a protected heritage area with excavated images displayed in situ.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect an open archaeological area with large monolithic Buddha statues installed on pedestals, surrounded by open ground near the riverbank. The site consists of seated Buddha images with explanatory signage, a simple landscaped enclosure and views of the town and river. It is a quiet, low-infrastructure heritage site suitable for short sightseeing, photography and observing early Buddhist art and iconography.
Key highlights
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Large seated Buddha images in bhumisparsha mudra
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Archaeological remains dating to 8th-10th century CE
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Location on the banks of the Mahanadi River in Boudh town
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Evidence of Vajrayana Buddhist centre in ancient Odisha
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Proximity to other heritage temples of Boudh
History of Buddha Statue Archaeological Site
Boudh was an important Buddhist centre between the 8th and 12th centuries CE, particularly during the Somavamsi period. The Buddha images at Boudh, dated to around 8th-10th century CE, represent Vajrayana Buddhism and show mature Odishan Buddhist art. Excavations and surface finds in the area have revealed Buddhist icons, votive stupas and monastic remains indicating a flourishing monastic settlement along the Mahanadi valley.
Culture & Context
The site represents the Buddhist heritage of the Mahanadi valley and Odisha's tradition of Buddhist art and iconography. It is valued as a cultural and religious landmark illustrating the historical spread of Buddhism in eastern India and is visited for heritage education and cultural understanding.
Route
| By air |
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