Kuruma Buddhist Site in Puri | Incredible India

January

13.8 - 30.0 °C

February

16.8 - 31.9 °C

March

21.1 - 33.8 °C

April

22.5 - 34.3 °C

May

22.5 - 35.5 °C

June

23.7 - 35.2 °C

July

24.0 - 34.6 °C

August

24.2 - 34.5 °C

September

24.1 - 34.8 °C

October

21.9 - 34.5 °C

November

17.6 - 32.4 °C

December

14.7 - 30.4 °C

Major Airports :

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), Bhubaneshwar

Nearest Railway Station :

Balugaon Railway Station (BALU)

Discovering the ancient secrets

8 km south of Konark Sun Temple lies an unassuming village named Kuruma in Puri, Odisha that holds stories from long ago - Kuruma village is an important spot ripe with history that's well worth discovering! History-laden, this Buddhist heritage site was discovered during the 9th-10th centuries and excavated between 1971-1975. Now complete, its impressive Buddhist monastery boasts twelve impressive blocks that stand 34 meters tall each - it's ready to welcome visitors! Within its walls are cells for Buddhist monks, a sacred shrine chamber and an auspicious courtyard in the shape of an auspicious "Swastik." Locals still revered and honored this ancient site despite being abandoned; one small temple with three exquisite Buddhist statues stands as evidence to its longstanding spirit. A remarkable connection links Kuruma with Odradesh's "Kuruma Stupa," depicted by Cambridge University Library manuscript No 1643 from 1015 BC!

A kaleidoscope of carvings

Kuruma stands out with its stunning stone slab depicting Buddha, complete with intricately-carved necklace and crown, making for an exceptional and revered find throughout Orissa. Avalokitesvara can also be found here seated gracefully on an exquisite lotus seat atop a 10-inch apron adorned with intricately-carved lotuses; further enhanced by the presence of Revanta representation. In its precincts is also housed a mysterious Prayer Hall called Chaitya Griha that offers its spiritual beacon to visitors eager to delve deep into its past history and make this an essential destination not to miss!

Legends of discovery

From 1974-1975, the Orissa State Archaeology Department embarked on an excavation expedition following the accidental discovery of a precious stone slab depicting Buddha by a local schoolteacher. This exciting find set off an effort to discover Kuruma's forgotten past; covering approximately 34 square meters it once housed 12 cells for monks as well as 3 rectangular masonry ovens; as time progressed, many artifacts such as pottery coins and palm leaf manuscripts surfaced during this dig which were lovingly kept at Odisha State Museum Bhubaneshwar.

Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 05:00 PM

Book ticket

Enchanting experiences await

Step into Kuruma's magical realm and let history cast its spell over you. Set out on an exciting voyage of discovery through these exciting activities. At the core of Kuruma lies an ancient stupa believed to stand tall for over 2000 years - discover its remains while immersing yourself in its story!

Wander amidst the remains of the Buddhist monastery, where remnants from its past still stand tall among its ancient buildings and sculptures. Take in some local culture by purchasing traditional handicrafts, clothing or exquisite jewellery in bustling local markets.

Search for peace at Puri Beach, only minutes away, where you can bask in its beauty of sun and sand. Within close proximity of Kuruma UNESCO World Heritage Site lies Konark Sun Temple which will leave history enthusiasts speechless with its grandeur and allure.

Celebrations unfold

Explore the remains of an ancient Buddhist monastery, where reminders of its past can still be seen in its old buildings and sculptures scattered around. Enjoy local culture by shopping local markets for handicrafts, clothing, and exquisite jewellery available there.

Puri Beach offers tranquility at its center, while nearby, Konark Sun Temple awaits history enthusiasts with grandeur and allure. Celebrations also take place here regularly!

As you explore Kuruma, experience its vibrant array of cultural events and festivals that fill this region.

Ratha Yatra Festival in Puri: Every June/July, come witness Puri's spectacular Ratha Yatra festival for an exhilarating procession featuring Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra riding three grand chariots through the streets.

Snana Yatra: Join in the celebrations in June as deities bathe on an elaborate platform adorned with 108 pots of water at Snana Yatra festival!

Puri Beach Festival: Come November, indulge in the Puri Beach Festival's celebration of art, fashion and local talent with mesmerising sand art exhibits, fashion shows and captivating performances that promise an amazing time at Puri Beach.

Konark Dance Festival: Each December brings with it the captivating Konark Dance Festival, where renowned dancers from across India showcase traditional Odishan and other forms of Indian dance.

Makar Sankranti: Celebrate Makar Sankranti in January to experience its joy - vibrant kites will soar into the sky to mark the end of winter solstice, marking an eventful festival celebrated across India.

Start an extraordinary adventure as you traverse the ancient lanes of Kuruma village, where history meets spirituality, and captivating tales are whispered among its ruins. Let its captivating aura fill your heart and soul as cherished memories will last a lifetime - come explore Kuruma - it holds endless riches awaiting exploration!