Bhubaneswar - Udaygiri and Khandagiri

Udaygiri and Khandagiri are twin hills with ancient caves located wets of Bhubaneswar. The caves provide sufficient proof of Jain and Buddhist occupation. This was the site of an ancient Jain monastery.

Rock cut shelters have been chiseled into the Khandagiri and Udaygiri hills and some are ornately carved. There are many caves in the middle of Udaygiri . The Rani Gumpha (Queen's Cave) is the largest and most ornately embellished with Jain symbols and battle scenes.

The Hati Gumpha (Elephant Cave) has less to see but does feature a long inscription relating to the exploits of King Kharavela during his reign.

Khandagiri offers lovely views over Bhubaneswar from its summit. The Ananta Cave features carved figures of athletes, women, elephants and geese. There are four temples on Khandagiri , the oldest being 200 years old.