About Khandagiri & Udayagiri
Khandagiri and Udayagiri are two adjacent hills located on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, Odisha’s capital city. Together, they form one of the oldest and most important archaeological and historical sites in the state. These twin hills are home to a series of rock-cut caves that date back to the 2nd century BCE, built during the reign of Emperor Kharavela of the Mahameghavahana dynasty.
The caves were carved as residential spaces for Jain monks and stand as a glorious example of Odisha’s early religious tolerance, stone architecture, and artistic legacy. For visitors and riders alike, the site offers a peaceful yet enriching experience — combining spiritual aura, ancient heritage, and panoramic city views.
Udayagiri: The Hill of Sunrise
Udayagiri (meaning “Hill of Sunrise”) features 18 rock-cut caves that served as dwelling places for Jain monks. Among these, Rani Gumpha is the largest and most richly decorated, featuring carved balconies, elephant processions, dancing scenes, and inscriptions in Brahmi script.
Other important caves here include Hathi Gumpha (Elephant Cave), which contains the famous rock inscription of King Kharavela, detailing his reign, victories, and donations. These inscriptions offer critical insight into Odisha’s ancient history and early Jain influence.
Khandagiri: The Hill of Retreat
Facing Udayagiri is Khandagiri, home to 15 caves. While less elaborate, the caves here offer serene walking paths, forested hill views, and spiritual calmness. The Tatowa Gumpha (Parrot Cave) is noted for its carvings of birds and animals, and local legend says monks lived here in complete silence and meditation.
On top of Khandagiri hill is a small Jain temple that offers a panoramic view of Bhubaneswar’s expanding cityscape. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time for soft golden light and quiet exploration.
The Ride Experience
Located just 7 km from Bhubaneswar Railway Station, Khandagiri and Udayagiri make for a perfect short city ride. Riders often pair this visit with other heritage sites like Dhauli Stupa or Lingaraj Temple. The roads are smooth, and parking is available near the base of the hills.
Though a quick ride in terms of distance, the visit itself can take 1–2 hours if you want to explore the carvings, climb the hills, and take in the stories etched in stone.
Nearby Attractions
- Dhauli Shanti Stupa – A peaceful Buddhist monument on the banks of the Daya River.
- Lingaraj Temple – One of the grandest examples of Kalinga-style temple architecture.
- Rajarani Temple – Known for its stunning sculptures and sandstone color.
- Odisha State Museum – A great place to learn more about ancient Jainism and regional history.
How to Reach
Khandagiri and Udayagiri are easily accessible via NH-316 and Khandagiri Chowk. From Bhubaneswar city center, it takes just 15–20 minutes by bike. Local signage is clear, and the roads are biker-friendly. You can also access the site via city bus, auto, or cab, but nothing beats the joy of an early morning solo or group ride to these heritage hills.
Entry is ticketed (₹25 for Indian citizens) and managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. Cameras are allowed, and the area is clean and well-maintained.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is ideal, with cooler temperatures and better sunlight for viewing the carvings. Early mornings are less crowded and offer better photography conditions. Evenings are also pleasant but can get slightly busier due to local visitors.
Conclusion: Carved Stories, Eternal Silence
Khandagiri and Udayagiri are more than just ancient rocks — they’re pages from Odisha’s spiritual and historical journal, open for anyone willing to read between the lines. Whether you’re a biker, a history buff, or a peace-seeker, these caves offer a timeless pause from the modern rush. A short ride, a long reflection — and a deeper respect for the wisdom carved in stone.