Ashokan Rock Edict and Dhauli Shanti Stupa: History, Significance, and Visitor's Guide

Ashokan Rock Edict, Dhauli, Bhubaneswar

Dhauli, located on the southern outskirts of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a prominent historical and spiritual site. Renowned for its Ashokan Rock Edicts and Shanti Stupa, it marks the transformation of Emperor Ashoka after the Kalinga War in 261 BCE. Today, Dhauli stands as a symbol of peace, compassion, and universal harmony.

Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Bhubaneswar — Shanti Stupa, Dhauli — symbol of peace and transformation

Panoramic Views

The Dhauli Hill provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the serene Daya River that once witnessed the bloodshed of the Kalinga War. The tranquil environment today contrasts beautifully with its turbulent past.

View of Bhubaneswar city from Dhauli Hill — View of Bhubaneswar city and Daya River from Dhauli Hilltop

Dhauli Shanti Stupa

The Dhauli Shanti Stupa, or Peace Pagoda, was built in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangha and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha. The white dome with a golden spire represents the eternal message of peace and enlightenment. The stupa’s serene environment makes it a major pilgrimage destination for Buddhists and peace-seekers alike.

Ashokan Rock Edicts

Below the Shanti Stupa lies one of India’s earliest historical inscriptions — the Rock Edicts of Emperor Ashoka. These edicts, inscribed in Brahmi script on a rock face, date to the 3rd century BCE. They record Ashoka’s repentance after the Kalinga War and his adoption of Dhamma — a life of peace and compassion.

The forepart elephant and Ashokan Edicts at Dhauli — The rock-cut elephant above the Ashokan Edicts — symbolizing Buddha’s awakening

Ashokan Edict inscription, Dhauli — The inscribed stone surface bearing Ashokan Edicts, 3rd century BCE

Ashokan Inscription, Dhauli — Close-up of Ashokan inscription, Dhauli

Ashokan Edicts translation plaque — Translation of the Ashokan Rock Edicts displayed near the site

These edicts reveal Ashoka’s renunciation of violence and his vision of a moral society based on tolerance, kindness, and dharma.

Hindu Monuments at Dhauli

Dhavaleswar Temple

Apart from Buddhist heritage, Dhauli Hill also hosts ancient Hindu temples. The Dhavaleswar Temple (10th–11th century CE) is a Saivite shrine known for its artistic stone carvings and sacred ambience.

Dhabaleswar Temple, Dhauli — Dhavaleswar Temple, Dhauli — 10th–11th century Saivite shrine

Mahisasuramardini near Dhabaleswar Temple — Mahisasuramardini relief sculpture near Dhavaleswar Temple

Bhairangeswar and Ganesh Temples

The Bhairangeswar Temple (11th century CE) and nearby Ganesh Temple reflect the coexistence of Hinduism and Buddhism at Dhauli. These structures, though small, are rich in local artistic expression.

Bhairangeswar and Ganesh Temple, Dhauli Hill — Bhairangeswar and Ganesh Temple complex — 11th century CE

Sculptural fragment near Bhairangeswar Temple — Sculptural fragment unearthed near Bhairangeswar Temple

Historical Importance

Ashokan Inscription

Dhauli represents the moral transformation of Emperor Ashoka and the birth of the Buddhist message of peace. The site serves as a timeless reminder of humanity’s capacity for change and compassion.

Ashokan Rock Edict stone, Dhauli Hill — The historic Rock Edict stone and shaded structure at Dhauli Hill

Daya River

The Daya River flowing beside Dhauli is believed to be the site of the Kalinga War. Legends say its waters turned red with blood — a sight that moved Ashoka to embrace Buddhism. Today, it flows peacefully through fertile plains, echoing the message of forgiveness and renewal.

Shantikar Dev Inscription

An additional inscription from the 9th century CE, attributed to King Santikara-deva of the Bhauma-Kara dynasty, lies opposite the Ashokan edicts. It reflects the continuation of sacred activity at Dhauli over centuries.

Shantikar Dev Cave Inscription, Dhauli — Shantikar Dev cave inscription — Bhauma-Kara dynasty, 9th century CE

Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: Dhauli Hill, on the banks of River Daya, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
🕗 Open Time: 6 AM – 6 PM (Open All Days)
🎟️ Entry Fee: Free Entry (Nominal parking fee applies)
🏛️ Maintained By: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and Odisha Tourism
💡 Special Feature: Evening Light & Sound Show depicting Kalinga War and Ashokan Transformation
🏞️ Nearby Attractions: Lingaraj Temple, Khandagiri–Udayagiri Caves, Rajarani Temple, Odisha State Museum
🌤️ Best Time: October – February (Early mornings and evenings recommended)

Related Books:

Konarak – K. S. Behera (Hardcover)

Odishan Temples