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The
sculptural and architectural richness of the Buddhist
heritage of Orison, is simply fascinating. The Buddhist
religion traces its germination, and foundation,
in actual terms, from this very state. The famous
Kalinga War, that led to the great Emperor Ashoka's
conversion to a staunch Buddhist, was fought on
the banks of the river Daya, in Orissa. Under the
championship of Ashoka, it was from here, that Buddhism
spread to Far Eastern countries, like China and
Japan. Orissa delivered the poignant message of
peace and Dhamma, non-violence, to the entire world.
The state teems with the remains of several great
Buddhist centres of art and learning, and other
institutions of this noble religion. These had been
a source of immense interest to outside visitors,
from as far back as the 7th century. The noted Chinese
traveller Hiuen Tsang was one of such luminaries,
who had visited the state in the 7th century AD.
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By
air: The nearest
airport is Bhubaneswar, 8 kms from Dhauli, 90 kms
from Ratnagiri, 100 kms from Udayagiri, and 85 kms
from Lalitagiri.
By rail: Bhubaneswar on South Eastern
Railway is the nearest railhead.
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