Budhakhol is an Odisha heritage site located in the Buguda block of the Ganjam district in Odisha, India. It is located about 92 km from the district headquarters. The ancient heritage is known for its beautiful trees, caves, temples, and a perennial waterfall that attracts tourists. Another point of attraction of the place is the presence of a group of five temples. The five temples are Sri Sri Makareswar Swami, Sri Sri Gangadhareswar Swami, Sri Sri Jagadieshwar Swami, Sri Sri Siddheswar Swami, Sri Sri Budheswar Swami, popularly known as Panchu Mahadeva Temple.
History
The place name Budhakhol is derived from Badhesvara, which means Buddha in meditation position. It is firmly believed that Buddha visited the site. Huentsang also visited the place and witnessed the learning and teaching of Buddhists and believed that it was one of the best places to learn Buddhism. The Panchumahadeva temples are believed to have been built in the era of Jagadguru AdiShankaracharya. Therefore, the place is a mixture of Buddhism and Hinduism.
Tourism
Budhakhol is widely known for its Buddhist culture. Several Buddhist remains found at the site give the impression of a Buddhist settlement there. The main attraction point of this place is the combination of caves, jungles and waterfalls, along with the combination of five temples that make the place a must see for pilgrims as well. 42 foot tall statues of Lord Shiva and Parvati donated by Indian princess Ipsita Pati at Budhakhol, Buguda, Odisha. The main attractions of the place are:
The Cave
Budhakhol is a scientific place frequently visited by tourists, pilgrims, and hikers. The caves are one of the most attractive points of the place. The place is located at a distance of about 3 km. north of Buguda in the Ganjam district. When climbing to the top of the hill, one can notice a very large stone in the south, which is called Patharakhai. In the same hill the tourist can find different caves. One of which is Siddha Gumpha, where Buddhist monks are used, they stay and meditate. Another cave called Dayana is also present in the main hills. Statue of Siva.Parbati ,Brusava , Hanuman , Pool ,Way from the top of the hill to the temple , about 495 steps to the temple etc….
Waterfalls
In the highest part of the hills, a perennial stream forms a waterfall, called Panjuria. The water from the falls falls from 25 feet into the Banyan tree and turns into a shower. The water from the Panjuria waterfall is believed to have medicinal properties.