********UDAYAGIRI********

       Udayagiri, the largest Buddhist complex in Orissa, has assumed further importance after the recent excavation work which revealed the ancient name od the monastery as Madhavapura Mahavihara and brought to light a sprawling complex of brick monastery with a number of Buddhist sculptures. In fact the entire area is found located at the foot hills of a large hill actiong as the backdropof the area. Located in the basin of the U-shaped hill this Buddhist centre is still not completely excavated and expoded. Along with the nearby Ratnagiri and Lalitgiri this comprises the mini golden triangle of Orissa tourism. The archaeological remains at Udayagiri consist of a brick stupa, two brick monasteries (one excavated and the other unexcavated)

a beautiful stone stepped well with inscriptions on it and rock cut sculptures at the top of the hill behind. Chronologically the Udayagiri Buddhist complex is latter than Ratnagiri and Laligir and the monasteries were probably flourishing well between 7th to 12th centuries A.D.

       The large number of exposed sculptures from excavation as well as those found half-buried and in situ belong, obviously, to the Buddhist panteon and consist of Boddhistitva figures and Dhyani Buddha figures. Interestingly, although located close to Ratnagiri, (about 50 kms.), Udayagiri does not possess a number of Vajrayana sculptures. Much remains to be known about this site. But at its newly excavated sprawling monastery complex which is to be reached through a long stairway. The unexcavated area is inviting and challenging to the archeologists as well as art lovers for the hiden treasure that lie buried. The ascent to the hill top to see the rock cut scultptures is very adventurous and difficult. The newly laid out hilly road, which has a serpentine passage along the foot hills, on the other side of Udayagiri is an added attraction and ensures all weather approach to the site.

APPROACH...

       Drive down or catch a bus from Cuttack, which is 70 km away from Ratnagiri, 60 from Udayagiri and 55 km from Lalitagiri.

ACCOMMODATION...

       Panthasala of Orissa Tourism at Patharajpur. Contact Tourist Office, Cutack,Tel: 612225for booking assistance.