Bhubaneswar Odisha, India Travel Guide
Lingaraj Temple: 11th-century, one of the earliest and largest temples. Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Harihara), a blend of Shaivism and Vaishnavism. Zenith of Kalinga architecture.
Mukteshwar Temple: 10th-century, "Gem of Kalinga Architecture." Exquisitely carved torana with intricate sculptures. Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
11th-century, beautiful sculptures of graceful female figures (Nayikas). No presiding deity, unique architectural style.
7th-century, one of the oldest. Early Kalinga architectural features and elaborate relief sculptures.
Ancient rock-cut caves, predominantly Jain monasteries, 2nd century BCE. Hathi Gumpha inscription. Panoramic views.
Diverse collection: archaeology, traditional Odia art (Pattachitra), ancient manuscripts, tribal artifacts, natural history.
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, closed On mondays. Entry fee applies.
Collection of tribal arts, crafts, and lifestyle. Traditional tools, clothing, jewelry, musical instruments.
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, closed Sundays and public holidays. Entry fee applies.
Focus on flora, fauna, geology, and biological diversity of Odisha and Eastern India.
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, not Open on mondays. No entry fee.
Check local listings or websites of Rabindra Mandap, Utkal Mandap, and Odisha State Museum for special exhibits and programming.
Museums stock an unique perspective rarely found in other Indian cities.
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves are ancient rock-cut Jain monasteries from the 2nd century BCE, with the Hathi Gumpha inscription.
Lingaraj Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, Rajarani Temple, Parasurameswara Temple are prominent examples of Kalinga architecture.
Dhauli Shanti Stupa, a Peace Pagoda on Dhauli Hills, commemorates Emperor Ashoka's transformation subsequent to the Kalinga War.
Nandankanan Zoological Park (zoo, botanical garden, a wildlife reserve, white tigers, safari), Ekamra Kanan Botanical Garden (various plant species, rose garden), Forest Park (green space for walks).
Plan your visit to Nandankanan in the morning, animals are frequently more active.
Dhauli Hills (panoramic views of Daya River). Nandankanan Lake (boating opportunities within the Zoological Park).
Dhauli Hills: peaceful setting, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Showcases traditional textiles and crafts of Odisha.
Astronomy shows in English plus Odia.
Platform for contemporary Odia artists.
Older, less visited temple near Lingaraj, peaceful.
A few hours from Bhubaneswar, with stunning riverine landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Offers ecotourism.
Renowned for mangrove forests, estuarine crocodiles, and rich birdlife.
An emerging destination for the outdoors and wildlife lovers.
A lesser-known museum beautifully demonstrating traditional textiles, handlooms, and crafts of Odisha.
Hire a local guide for the temple complex or the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves.
Bhubaneswar provides a mix of urban green spaces and a connection with nature.
