Bhubaneswar, often referred to as the “Temple City of India,” is a sacred destination where spirituality and serenity meet in every corner. With its thousands of ancient shrines, quiet ashrams, and peaceful gardens, the city provides perfect retreats for those seeking calm, connection, and inner peace.
1. Lingaraj Temple
Why visit: A majestic 11th-century temple that’s not just a site of worship but a place to feel spiritually grounded.
Highlights: – Rich Kalinga architecture – Sacred Bindusagar Tank nearby – Daily rituals and chants
Timing: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free (Only Hindus allowed inside sanctum)
2. Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama
Why visit: A peaceful retreat offering spiritual discourses, meditation, and community service.
Highlights: – Morning prayers – Spiritual library – Clean, meditative campus
Timing: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
3. ISKCON Temple Bhubaneswar
Why visit: A vibrant and welcoming spiritual hub with joyful chanting, serene gardens, and Krishna consciousness teachings.
Highlights: – Aarti and kirtans – Prasadam meals – Peaceful temple ambiance
Timing: 4:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
4. Dhauli Shanti Stupa
Why visit: A hilltop white stupa built as a symbol of peace, overlooking the historic site of the Kalinga War.
Highlights: – Buddha statues – Panoramic views – Evening light and sound show
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free; ₹25 for light & sound show
5. Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves
Why visit: Rock-cut caves once used by Jain monks—ideal for reflection and learning ancient spiritual practices.
Highlights: – Meditation spots – Jain symbols and carvings – Panoramic city views
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners
6. Buddha Jayanti Park
Why visit: A quiet, green park built around Buddhist values, perfect for calm walks and silent prayer.
Highlights: – Statue of Buddha – Lotus pond – Meditation-friendly lawns
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
7. Brahma Kumaris Om Shanti Retreat
Why visit: A serene center offering guided Rajyoga meditation, self-awareness classes, and spiritual detox.
Highlights: – Daily meditation – Spiritual lifestyle sessions – Soul-soothing environment
Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free (registration for sessions may be required)
8. Chausathi Yogini Temple
Why visit: An ancient tantric temple offering a deep sense of spiritual mystery and divine feminine energy.
Highlights: – Circular architecture – Secluded hilltop site – Meditative silence
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
9. Ananta Vasudeva Temple
Why visit: One of the few temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Shaivite-dominated city, known for sacred food offerings.
Highlights: – Peaceful rituals – Temple kitchen with prasadam – Spiritual ambiance
Timing: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
10. Odisha State Museum’s Manuscript Gallery
Why visit: A spiritual and intellectual retreat with ancient scriptures, palm leaf manuscripts, and religious texts.
Highlights: – Illustrated Gita and Upanishads – Buddhist and Jain texts – Quiet reading zone
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed Monday)
Entry: ₹10 per person
Feature Image:- Photo by Soubhagya Maharana
