Langudi Buddhist Archaeological Site

Langudi Buddhist Archaeological Site is an ancient Buddhist complex on Langudi Hill in Jajpur district, Odisha, about 90 km northeast of Bhubaneswar. Systematically excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India from 1996 onwards, it comprises rock-cut stupas, votive stupas, monasteries, chaityas and Brahmi inscriptions dating from the 3rd century BCE to 9th century CE. Part of Odisha's Buddhist Diamond Triangle with Ratnagiri, Udayagiri and Lalitgiri, it is noted for its large Mahastupa and early rock-cut architecture.

Visitors can expect an open-air archaeological complex spread across Langudi Hill with exposed rock-cut stupas carved into the hillside, brick-built monastic remains, votive stupas, chaitya structures and stone inscriptions. The site is set in a rural, semi-forested hill landscape with excavated mounds and pathways connecting different levels. There is no enclosed museum on site; exploration involves walking on uneven ground and steps to view stupas, sculptures and structural remains in situ.

Langudi was discovered and excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India and Odisha State Archaeology from 1996. The site revealed a major Buddhist establishment with 34 rock-cut stupas, a Mahastupa, monasteries, votive stupas and Brahmi inscriptions. Archaeological evidence dates occupation from the 3rd century BCE (Mauryan period) to the 9th-11th century CE, covering Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana phases. Scholars associate Langudi with Pushpagiri Vihara described by Chinese traveler Xuanzang in the 7th century.

Langudi is a significant Buddhist religious and cultural site representing the evolution of Buddhism in Odisha. It demonstrates early rock-cut stupa architecture and monastic tradition and forms part of the Buddhist Diamond Triangle that highlights Odisha's role as a major centre of Buddhist learning and pilgrimage in ancient India.