Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar
The City of Temples – Bhubaneswar is known to be home to more than 700 religious hubs. If you wish to explore Temple City, check out this list of highly coveted places on every tourist’s bucket list. From historical monuments to temple architecture, art & craft villages, artifacts, and museums, unravel the mysteries of Bhubaneswar with us!
Top Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar
1. Lingaraj Temple
(Image Source: Odisha Tourism)
Standing at 180 ft is the historically prominent Lingaraj Temple. The temple is famous for Swayambhu, the self-originating shivling. Built during the 7th century by King Jajati Keshari, the temple covers a vast expanse of 2,50,000 sq ft. One can find a beautiful garden of Ekamra Van or a forest of mango trees, having spiritual and medicinal significance.
The holy Bindusagar Lake is yet another attraction. People gather around the lake to enjoy the temple festivities together. The Mahashivratri and Jagannath Rath Yatra are among the most popular festivals celebrated here, adding to the divinity.
2. Hirakud Dam
(Image Source: Hirakud Dam)
The longest human-made dam in India is the majestic Hirakud Dam. The 56-kilometer-long dam’s construction on River Mahanadi took place in 1956. The multi-purpose dam protects the city against floods and supplies water to eastern Odisha. You can enjoy the incredible sight of Gandhi Minar and Nehru Minar, which surround the dam.
The calming chip of hundreds of birds and the lush greenery in the surrounding area leave a soothing imprint on the soul. The architectural beauty of this dam attracts not only locals but also tourists from worldwide. Enjoy the quaint atmosphere of this surreal place!
3. Rajarani Temple
(Image Source: Odisha Tourism)
Originally called Indreswara, the Rajarani Temple is known as a “love temple.” It is famous for the sensuous carvings of women and couples. Moreover, the incarnations of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on the temple walls indicate Shaivism’s practice over centuries. The temple gets its name from the local term “Rajrani,” which refers to construction with red and yellow sandstone.
The ideal time to visit this temple is from 18 to 20th January, when the Department of Tourism of the Odisha Government organizes Rajarani Music Festival. Musicians from all across India perform classical music styles like Hindustani and Carnatic during the three-day festival. So, plan your visit accordingly!
4. Nandankanan Zoological Park
(Image Source: Odisha Tourism)
The 437-hectare botanical garden is a prime attraction zoo of the country. This park, established in 1960, is known as the ‘Garden of Heaven.’ The zoo provides shelter to around 1660 animals from 166 different species. It includes 81 species of birds, 67 species of mammals, and 18 species of reptiles.
Interestingly, it is the first zoo in India to associate with the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Likewise, it is the only conservation breeding center of Indian Pangolins worldwide. You can also enjoy other activities at the park, like boating, jungle safaris, aerial ropeway, and cable car. It stands as one of the most scenic places in Bhubaneshwar, enabling you to discover the vibrant flora and fauna. So, rush to this place now!
5. Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
(Image Source: Odisha Tourism)
Formerly known as the Cuttack caves, the place holds tremendous historical and religious importance. The word Udayagiri typically means ‘Sunrise Hill.’ Of the caves built on the Kumari mountain range, 18 reside on Udayagiri hill and 15 on Khandagiri hill. The caves served as a residence for Jain monks during the rule of King Kharavela of the Meghavahana dynasty.
The intricate architecture was carved by traditional hand-carving practices using some basic tools. On your visit, find references from mythology, such as the depiction of the Kalinga War. Teenagers and women carved depict them saving their motherland from Ashoka’s army. If you are interested in discovering the rich culture and heritage of the country, this place is a must-visit for you!
6. Tribal Museum
(Image Source: Odisha Tourism)
The State Tribal Museum, or the Museum of Tribal Arts and Artifacts, was established in 1953. The lifestyle of tribal people, including their clothes, ornaments, traditions, and equipment, are well portrayed in the museum. Every nook corner – from outer walls to tree trunks, is painted with tribal artwork since every space is a canvas.
You can discover fine illustrations of tribal huts of different tribal groups and artifacts gathered from various tribal communities of Odisha. Besides, you can find a library, audio-visual units, and native art and craft work samples that act as a storehouse of information and documentation of tribal life. If exploring the life of a tribal is something that interests you, head to this place right away!
If you are in the city, take time to discover this delightful collection of historical and heritage sites. Make sure you cover all these alluring destinations on your visit!
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