How To Reach Dhauli

Situated roughly 20 km away from Bhubaneswar – the capital of the coastal state Orissa – Dhauli is a religious and historically significant town that attracts Buddhist and Hindu devotees from places near and far. Situated along the banks of the river Daya, the region was the grounds of the infamous Kalinga War that is known to have changed the heart of King Asoka and introduced him to the teachings and principles of Buddhism. History and archaeology enthusiasts love to visit Dhauli to explore the numerous rock-cut carvings dotted around Dhaulagiri (Giri translates to Hill) that bear the edicts of Asoka, along with images related to Buddhism and its ideologies. Don’t forget to make a day trip to Dhauli on your next Orissa holiday; if you’re an Orissa resident, Dhauli should definitely feature on the list of your local vacation spots. Here are some of the best ways to reach Dhauli. 

The Biju Patnaik International Airport in the capital city Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport from Dhauli, which is situated just 13 km away. It is the only international airport in the state and also has a domestic terminal that connects the capital to all major cities across the country and within Orissa. Air India is the sole flight that operates in this airport; for visitors traveling via other flights from overseas can get in to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport in Kolkata first and catch a connecting flight to Bhubaneswar.

The Bhubaneswar Railway Station is a well-connected railhead that makes reaching the capital city via train a convenient affair. A number of regularly running trains operate between Bhubaneswar and all major cities in the country, making this junction one of the busiest in India. Buses and taxis are available from the railway station that can be availed to reach Dhauli, which is located 13 km away via Puri Road.  

Dhauli is situated very close to Bhubaneswar and can be reached easily through a number of means of transport. The shortest distance via road is 18 km away if you take the Puri Road from Bhubaneswar. Buses, both public and private, are available from the bus stands of Bhubaneswar to get to Dhauli. Visitors can also hire cabs or even auto-rickshaws to cover the short distance. Since Dhauli is just 68 km and 27 km away from important cities like Puri and Cuttack respectively, some people choose to drive directly from these cities as well.

All key attractions in Dhauli are within walking distance and don’t require separate means of transportation. People who visit Dhauli in their personal vehicle can drive around the region at their own leisure, while visitors journeying with a tourist group usually travel in tour buses that will take you to all the popular spots.