Lalitgiri, Buddhist archaeological site in Cuttack district, India
Lalitgiri is a Buddhist archaeological complex in eastern India featuring stone-carved stupas, monastery remains, and sculptures spread across elevated ground. The structures are distributed across several hills and display different architectural styles from different periods.
The site emerged in the post-Mauryan period and flourished as a religious center for several centuries until the 13th century. Excavations between 1977 and 1991 revealed these layers of occupation and showed how the monastery evolved over time.
This site served as a major pilgrimage destination for Buddhist devotees across the region for centuries. Visitors came to meditate and honor the sacred remains, giving the place deep spiritual meaning in the lives of local communities.
The site sits on hills, so comfortable footwear is needed for exploring, especially if visiting multiple structures. A museum on-site displays Buddhist sculptures, pottery, and inscriptions found during excavations, helping visitors understand the history better.
Golden containers holding bone fragments believed to be Buddha relics were discovered inside the main stupa. These rare findings offer insight into how Buddhist devotees preserved and protected their most sacred objects.
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