A short and dusty detour before arriving at the magnificent Sun Temple in Konark provides access to a place of tranquillity, calm, and connection to the ancient world — the Kuruma Buddhist Heritage. This lesser-known archaeological site represents a counterpoint to Odisha’s religious monuments; it is a testament to a much earlier tradition of Buddhism flourishing along the coast.
It is an area where the past has left its imprint, and the remains of that ancient tradition await the polite and interested visitor to discover and learn about the many historical links that are evident in the archaeological evidence.
Historical Significance: A Thriving Monastic University
Kuruma was much more than a simple monastery; it also served as an ancient, vibrant monastery, and likely as a vihara. The dating of the site indicates that it existed between the 8th and 10th centuries CE and places Kuruma at the same time period as many of the other great centres of Buddhist learning, such as Nalanda.
It was an important centre for Buddhism, and very likely formed part of a broader network of monasteries that existed along the Odisha coast and served as a hub for Buddhist theology, culture, and exchange. In many respects, Kuruma represents the very earliest history of Odisha before the construction of the Sun Temple.
The Archaeological Treasures: Terracotta Seals and More
Kuruma’s ancient Buddhist culture is embodied in clay artefacts. The most significant artefacts from Kuruma are the terracotta seals, which were used as a means of identification and authentication for the monks’ educational achievements, that have inscribed on them the tenet of Ye Dharma Hetu as expressed in the Sanskrit language.
These artefacts represent a very tangible connection to the scholarly pursuits undertaken by the monks of Kuruma, and the remaining substructures of the stupas, votive chaityas, and meditation cells discovered at Kuruma provide clear evidence of an independent, all-encompassing, and intellectually stimulating community existing in modern-day Odisha.
The Unique Buddha Image: The Bhumisparsha Mudra
In addition to the ruins that surround it, a strong expression of the Buddha is the stone sculpture in Bhumisparsha Mudra, or “Earth Touching Posture.” That moment when the Buddha became enlightened under the Bodhi tree is captured by this beautiful stone image of the Buddha. This stone sculpture is considered to be one of the finest expressions of stone carving artistry and spirituality.
The stone sculpture is wonderful because the Buddha is depicted sitting calmly, with both hands touching the ground, identifying the Earth as a witness to his victory over Mara. Therefore, the stone image is related to calmness and beauty, pointing to the power of meditation upon it, as it is a masterpiece of medieval Odisha sculptural art.
Kuruma, Konark & Puri: A Spiritual Triangle
The visit to Kuruma will change the way you think about the region, and the pilgrimage circuit that you will create will include multiple faiths. In the near vicinity, you will find the cosmic Hindu faith of the Konark Sun Temple, the timeless Vaishnavite faith of Jagannath Temple (Puri), and the peaceful Buddhist legacy of Kuruma. This correlation of the three sites provides a unique, yet condensed, journey of the spiritual and architectural history of India, demonstrating an enormous ongoing dialogue of the three religions for centuries.
The Visitor Experience: A Journey of Serene Discovery
Kuruma is a hidden gem for those looking for a temporary escape from everyday life. Compared to the more well-known attractions, Kuruma has very few people visiting and is tranquil, with only the sound of birds chirping and trees swaying as background noise.
As you walk amongst the remnants of monks and the low brick foundations, you can be an archaeologist of the imagination and recreate the past of the monks from a thousand years ago. It is an excellent place for mindfulness, historical curiosity, and true exploration.
Practical Guide: How to Plan Your Visit
The site is a short 8 km from Konark along some country roads, making it accessible to those in need of day trips from Puri or Konark. Even with increasing signage in the area, hiring a local guide will give greater insight into the historical events behind the site, as many local guides from the city of Konark are knowledgeable about the Kuruma area.
Visiting Kuruma in the morning or later in the day when it is cooler will improve your experience, and you should take plenty of water and wear a hat while you are out. Additionally, allow 60-90 minutes to fully enjoy what the site has to offer.
Conclusion: Preserving the Whisper of History
More than an archaeological site, the Kuruma Buddhist Heritage site is a critical chapter in the ongoing historical narrative of Odisha. It serves as a reminder that there are multiple levels of meaning in history, and that the greatest historical treasures are sometimes found in hidden or lesser-known parts of history.
To visit Kuruma is to be part of a larger community striving to protect and preserve this important part of our past, so that the tranquil presence of the Kuruma Buddha, along with the legacies of the monks who worshipped at this shrine, may continue to light the path of future generations of seekers and wanderers.
Tourist Facilities, Transportation, Tourist Attractions, How to Reach, Accessibility
Opening Time
Kuruma Buddhist Archaeological Site opening time is every Morning from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Kuruma Archaeological Heritage Site is at all times of the year.
Closest Bus Stand & Distance
The Closest Bus stand is at Konark, which is around 7 KM from distance from Kuruma Buddhist Archaeological Site.
Closest Railway Station and Distance
The Closest Railway Station is at Puri, which is around 44 KM from distance from Kuruma Archaeological Site.
Closest Airport
The Closest airport is at Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, which is around 68 KM from distance from Kuruma Archaeological Site.
