Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is a city where ancient temples and heritage blend seamlessly with modernity. Known as the ‘Temple City of India,’ Bhubaneswar boasts a fascinating array of historic monuments, serene parks, and cultural landmarks that make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and travelers alike.
1. Lingaraj Temple
Why visit: The largest and one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar, dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing Kalinga architecture.
Highlights: – 11th-century stone carvings – Massive 55-meter tall tower – Sacred Bindusagar Lake nearby
Timing: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free (only Hindus allowed inside sanctum)
2. Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves
Why visit: Ancient rock-cut caves that served as dwellings for Jain monks, rich with carvings and inscriptions.
Highlights: – Ranigumpha double-storeyed cave – Jain sculptures – City views from the hilltops
Timing: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners
3. Dhauli Shanti Stupa
Why visit: A peaceful Buddhist monument marking the site of the Kalinga War and Emperor Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism.
Highlights: – Gleaming white stupa – Ashokan edicts on rock – Riverfront views – Light and sound show
Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
4. Mukteswara Temple
Why visit: A small but artistically significant 10th-century temple known as the ‘Gem of Odisha Architecture.’
Highlights: – Beautiful arched torana (gateway) – Intricate carvings – Annual Mukteswar Dance Festival
Timing: 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry: Free
5. Nandankanan Zoological Park
Why visit: A popular zoo and botanical garden famous for its white tigers and natural forest setting.
Highlights: – White tiger safari – Boating in Kanjia Lake – Butterfly park – Lion and bear safaris
Timing: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (closed Mondays)
Entry: ₹50 per person, safari charges extra
6. Odisha State Museum
Why visit: A treasure trove of Odisha’s history, art, and archaeology through well-curated exhibits.
Highlights: – Ancient manuscripts – Stone sculptures – Palm leaf paintings – Handicrafts gallery
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Entry: ₹10 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners
7. Rajarani Temple
Why visit: A distinctive 11th-century temple known for its unique architectural style and absence of presiding deity.
Highlights: – Erotic carvings – Beautifully sculpted figures – Rajarani Music Festival
Timing: 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry: ₹15 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners
8. Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens
Why visit: A sprawling green space perfect for family outings, morning walks, and nature photography.
Highlights: – Cactus house – Musical fountain – Children’s park – Orchid house
Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹20 per person
9. Pathani Samanta Planetarium
Why visit: An educational and entertaining spot for astronomy enthusiasts and students.
Highlights: – Regular sky shows – Interactive science exhibits – Open-air telescope viewings
Timing: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹30 per person
10. Regional Museum of Natural History
Why visit: A well-maintained museum showcasing the biodiversity of Odisha and eastern India.
Highlights: – Dinosaur skeleton replica – Rare animal specimens – Eco-friendly exhibits
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Entry: Free
Feature Image:- Photo by Dilip Poddar on Unsplash
