Udayagiri, Ancient Buddhist complex in Jajpur district, India
Udayagiri is an ancient Buddhist complex in Jajpur district featuring numerous rock-cut caves, monasteries, and stupas distributed across several levels of a hillside. The site comprises multiple religious structures organized across different elevations of the terrain.
The site developed as a Buddhist settlement between the 7th and 12th centuries and served as an important monastic center. Excavations from 1997 to 2000 revealed extensive remains from this period.
The site displays stone carvings of Buddhist deities such as Tara, Manjusri, and Avalokitesvara that reflect the religious beliefs of medieval India. Visitors can discover these crafted details while walking through the various caves and levels.
The site is located approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Bhubaneswar or about 70 kilometers from Cuttack and is accessible by road. Visitors should expect stairs and uneven paths on the grounds, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
At the center of the compound stands a large stupa about 7 meters tall, surrounded by carefully finished stone flooring and platforms built with ashlar masonry. This central structure demonstrates the skilled craftsmanship applied in building the complex.
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