Khandagir & Udayagiri

The Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves relive the memories of Kalinga Empire under the Jain emperor Kharvela. There are about 40 rock cut cave adoring the two hills separated by a road. It is believed that the founder of Jain faith, Mahavir had visited Udayagiri and khandagiri in the 6th Century B.C. Modern scholars are found in Rani and Hati Gumpha in theUdayagiti with description of the culture of dance in Orissa as far before as the 2nd century B.C. Modern scholars are of the opinion that the Udayagiri cave complex was also a theatre complex. Emperor Kharvela was a staunch and a great patron of culture. It is possible that he had created the caves for use of Jain ascetics as well as for cultural shows.