Udayagiri and Khandagiri, Odisha

The Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves recall the Kalinga Empire's memory of the Jain emperor Kharvela. The two hills separated by a road have roughly 40 rock cut caves adorning them. Mahavir, the founder of the Jain faith, is thought to have visited Udayagiri and Khandagiri in the 6th century B.C. Modern scholars may be found in the Udayagiti's Rani and Hati Gumpha with descriptions of Orissa's dance tradition dating back to the 2nd century B.C. According to modern academics, the Udayagiri cave complex was also a theatrical complex. Emperor Kharvela was a devoted supporter of the arts.

It's probable that he built the caves for both Jain ascetics and cultural performances. Climbing the hill will reward you with a beautiful view of the city. Every Saturday morning at 6.30 a.m., Ekamra Walks offers free guided walking tours of the Khandagiri hills.

Location: Bhubaneswar in Odisha, India