Ratnagiri Buddhist Day Tour from Bhubaneshwar

Spend a day around the major Buddhist monastery Ratnagiri, which is located in the Brahmani and Birupa river valleys in the Jajpur district of Odisha.

Highlights:

• Enjoy a hassle-free ride to Ratnagiri from Bhubaneshwar.
• Witness the sculptures and beauty of the place.
• Visit other Buddhist sites and the famous Archeological Museum.

Detailed Overview:

The Ratnagiri Buddhist Excavations have been found near Jajpur and have a rich collection of Buddhist antiquities. The tourist spot has been listed in the Diamond Triangle and houses a number of shrines related to Lord Buddha. After unearthing the site, a big stupa, two large monasteries, Buddhist shrines, sculptures, and a large number of votive stupas have been unearthed. The historical Excavations take us back to the 6th century and relate to the Gupta empire. Ratnagiri is believed to be the school of learning for Vajrayana, which is a Buddhist Tantric cult. 

Itinerary:

• Start your journey early this morning. The drive to Ratnagiri from Bhubaneshwar takes approximately 3 hours.
• Reach Ratnagiri around 10:00 AM and visit the Ratnagiri Archaeological Site, home to ancient monasteries and stupas.
• Discover the impressive ruins of the Buddhist monasteries, such as the Mahavihara, and admire intricate carvings and sculptures.
• Explore artifacts in Ratnagiri Museum that showcase the rich Buddhist heritage of the region. This museum offers valuable insights into the historical context of the site.
• Enjoy a local meal at a nearby restaurant, sampling traditional Odia cuisine.
• After lunch, head to the nearby Udayagiri and Lalitagiri sites. Both locations feature ancient ruins, stupas, and serene landscapes.
• Take time to appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and learn about the significance of these sites in Buddhist history.
• Depart from Ratnagiri in the evening and enjoy the scenic drive back to Bhubaneswar.
• Arrive in Bhubaneswar and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel.