Remnants of An Illustrious Seat of Learning
The most famous and comparatively well excavated site amongst the triad of the Buddhist Diamond Triangle, Ratnagiri captured the imagination of historians and archeologist alike during its excavation, between 1975-1983.
Prof Thomas Donaldson of Cleveland University, who has written many books on art and history of Odisha and India, Ratnagiri was a rival to Nalanda as a site of Buddhist learning and according to him some of the Tibetan texts even regard that the Mahayana and Tantrayana sect of Buddhism originated from Ratnagiri.
The beautifully carved entrance gate of the Monastery is one of the most photographed Buddhist structures in the world. Ratnagiri is also the only monastery in India to have a curvilinear roof. The numerous Votive Stupas (Stupas erected on fulfillment of wish), the Commemorative Stupas (Stupas erected in memory of monks with their relics), the massive Mahastupa (main stupa), Chaityagrihas (prayer halls), statues of Buddha and the ornately carved rooms set amidst serene surroundings on top of hillock makes one wonder about the greatness of an era gone by.
Any mention of Ratnagiri is incomplete without mentioning the name of Mrs. Debala Mitra- the then Director General of Archeological survey of India, who explored and excavated the site. In her book titled “Ratnagiri” she mentions - “recent excavations of the top of the hillock brought to light imposing remains of one of the most important Buddhist establishments, reclaimed as Ratnagiri-Mahavihara (and not Pushpagiri-Vihara as presumed by some) on the basis of a number of sealings bearing the legend Sri-Ratnagiri-mahavihariy-aryabikshu-sanghasya. With its nucleus dating at least from about the fifth century A.D, the establishment witnessed a phenomenal growth in religion, art and architecture till twelve century A.D.
Like what you see? Looking to have a well rounded experience in Odisha? Scroll to see a list of the choicest of curated pre-packaged tours covering the most coveted destinations in Odisha.Browse the list and see details of the trail/package which interests you most. Contact the Dept. Of Tourism recogonized Tour Operators who has published the tour and finalize your trip to Odisha today!
Berhampur, Bhubaneswar+5
Puri Beach, Konark+15
Visit Puri, Jagannath Temple, konark, Raghurajpur, ...
Know MoreBerhampur, Bhubaneswar+3
Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswar Temple+11
Come and Visit the best Places Odisha have for you ...
Know MoreCuttack Town, Jajpur+1
Ratnagiri, Udaygiri+3
Visit Bhitarkanika, Diamond Triangle of Odisha, Si ...
Know MoreBerhampur, Bhubaneswar+5
Lingaraj Temple, Nandankanan+21
The state of Odisha is one of the most artistic an ...
Know MoreBhubaneswar, Jajpur+2
Udaygiri & Khandagiri Caves, Tribal Museum+12
The Diamond triangle tour takes you on an excursio ...
Know MoreBhubaneswar, Jajpur
Bhubaneswar, Rajarani Temple+9
Visit Bhubaneswar, Rajarani Temple, Mukteswar Temp ...
Know MoreBhubaneswar, Jajpur+2
Bhubaneswar, Mukteswar Temple+13
Odisha is an amazing holiday destination, owing to ...
Know MoreBerhampur, Bhubaneswar+3
Rajarani Temple, Mukteswar Temple+14
Visit Rajarani Temple, Mukteswar Temple, Parsurame ...
Know MoreAngul, Bhubaneswar+1
Bhubaneswar, Bhitarkanika Nature Camps+10
Visit Bhubaneswar, Bhitarkanika, Satkosia, Lalitgi ...
Know MoreBhubaneswar, Cuttack Town+3
Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach+14
Welcome to Odisha – a state where hospitality is ...
Know MoreAngul, Baripada+5
Nandankanan, Similipal Nature Camp+9
Come and visit the wildlife of Odisha
Know MoreBalasore, Baripada+2
Bhubaneswar, Rajarani Temple+11
Visit Bhubaneswar, Rajarani Temple, Mukteswar Temp ...
Know MoreBerhampur, Bhitarkanika+3
Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach+8
Visit Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach, Chandrabhaga B ...
Know MoreBalasore, Baripada+8
Bhubaneswar, Dhauligiri+19
Temples in Odisha have a special identity in India ...
Know MoreBaidyanatha, Berhampur+5
Lingaraj Temple, Parasurameswar Temple+18
Visit Bhubaneswar, Dhauli, Pipili, Raghurajpur, Pu ...
Know MoreSo why is Odisha touted as Incredible India's Best Kept Secret. What is it about the places, people , landscape, art , culture and history that entices? What makes Odisha the land of cathartic Spiritual experiences, intricate art and immortal architecture regaling many timeless tales, flair for dance and drama, pristine beaches, delectable cuisines stunning landscapes and formidable yet elegant wildlife. Don't take our word for it ; read the through the journeys and experiences of the many travel enthusiasts who have traversed and fallen in love with the land of Odisha!
Wish to make the best of your trip to Ratnagiri ? Make sure your itinerary covers these below must-see destinations close to Ratnagiri.Most of these are highly coveted on every tourists bucket list and can be reached from Ratnagiri in a matter of hours. We have found 10 such places close to Ratnagiri that will maximize your Experience-Odisha!
The Hill of The Rising Sun
Know MoreThe Hill of The Rising Sun
The Glory of The Past Reflected In Stone
Know MoreThe Glory of The Past Reflected In Stone
A Legacy of Infusing Life Into Stone
Know MoreA Legacy of Infusing Life Into Stone
An Ancient Site & A Unique Form of Shakti
Know MoreAn Ancient Site & A Unique Form of Shakt ...
Where The Ships Come Calling
Know MoreWhere The Ships Come Calling
A Reflection On The Glorious Maritime Tradition
Know MoreA Reflection On The Glorious Maritime Tr ...
The Mini Amazon
Know MoreThe Mini Amazon
The Heavenly Abode of The Inhabitants
Know MoreThe Heavenly Abode of The Inhabitants
The Repository of The State’s Bio diversity
Know MoreThe Repository of The State’s Bio dive ...
Reach Out For The Stars & The Moon
Know MoreReach Out For The Stars & The Moon
There's a variety of options for you to stay at. From Star Rated Hotels, Eco Tour Nature Camps equipped with state of the art swiss tents and facilities to OTDC Government Hotels, Bed Breakfasts and Homestays to choose from. Browse the list below to choose your preferred accomodation.
Showing 2 of 6 Hotel(s) found
Panthanivas Paradeep, Near circuit house, Paradeep
118 Km. Distance from Airport
8 Km. Distance from Railway Station
0 Km. Distance from Bus Stop
View On Map11 Km. Distance from Airport
10 Km. Distance from Railway Station
2 Km. Distance from Bus Stop
View On MapShowing 2 of 7 Nature Camp(s) found
Showing 2 of 9 Hotel(s) found
9 Km. Distance from Airport
7 Km. Distance from Railway Station
0 Km. Distance from Bus Stop
View On MapCB -1, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar
8 Km. Distance from Airport
5 Km. Distance from Railway Station
1 Km. Distance from Bus Stop
View On MapShowing 2 of 4 Hotel(s) found
126 Km. Distance from Airport
116 Km. Distance from Railway Station
5 Km. Distance from Bus Stop
View On MapAt – Jyoti Niketan ( Rajbati) PO & Village – Mangarajpur, via Choudwar Dist - CUTTACK – 754028, Odisha.
60 Km. Distance from Airport
50 Km. Distance from Railway Station
5 Km. Distance from Bus Stop
View On Map
Comments