About Dhauli Shanti Stupa
Dhauli Shanti Stupa is a white-domed peace pagoda located on Dhauli Hills, about 8 km south of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on the banks of the Daya River. Built in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha, it marks the site associated with the ancient Kalinga War and Emperor Ashoka's embrace of Buddhism. The stupa features Buddha images, stone panels and nearby Ashokan rock edicts.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a white dome-shaped peace pagoda atop Dhauli Hills with panoramic views of the Daya River plains and surrounding countryside. The structure has four large Buddha images depicting different life events, stone panels illustrating Buddha's life, and a sculpted lion capital. The complex includes landscaped gardens, paved pathways, nearby Ashokan rock edicts with ancient inscriptions, and an open platform for circumambulation, meditation and photography. An evening light and sound show is often held nearby.
Key highlights
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White dome-shaped peace pagoda built in Indo-Japanese architectural style
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Four Buddha statues showing birth, enlightenment, preaching and nirvana
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Stone panels depicting scenes from the life of Gautama Buddha
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Nearby Ashokan rock edicts with Brahmi inscriptions dating to 3rd century BCE
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Panoramic views of Daya River and surrounding plains from Dhauli Hills
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Evening light and sound show narrating Kalinga War and Ashoka's transformation
History of Dhauli Shanti Stupa
Dhauli Hills is traditionally associated with the Kalinga War in 261 BCE fought by Emperor Ashoka. Following the war, Ashoka is said to have embraced Buddhism and promoted principles of peace and dharma. The hill preserves rock edicts inscribed in Brahmi script attributed to Ashoka. The present Shanti Stupa was constructed in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha as a symbol of peace.
Culture & Context
The stupa is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site and a symbol of peace and non-violence. It represents Indo-Japanese cultural collaboration and is revered by Buddhists. The site hosts Buddhist rituals and attracts visitors interested in Buddhist art, architecture and heritage of Odisha.