Top 13 Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is one of the lesser known gems of tourism in the vast country of India. While the people of the rest of the country do not often realize the potential for tourism in Bhubaneswar, the residents and regular visitors are well aware and duly enchanted with the unique charm that these places have. Let us illuminate some of these destinations so that you can integrate them into the places to visit in Bhubaneswar.

13 Best Places to visit in Bhubaneswar

• Udaygiri and Khandagiri caves
• Dhauli Hill
• Odisha State Museum
• Nandankanan Zoological Park
• Brahmeshwara Temple
• Mukteshwar Temple
• Lingaraja Temple
• Parasurameswara Temple
• Ekamravan
• Dhenkanal
• Puri
• Konark
• Chilika

1. Udaygiri and Khandagiri caves

The Udaygiri and Khandagiri caves are both partially natural and artificial. Built around 1^st century BC by the Chedi Dynasty, there are many ancient Jain temples and monasteries in these 33 caves of various sizes. The intricate stone carvings done by the Kalinga artisans can be seen on the walls of these relics. These caves are famous places in bhubaneswar

2. Dhauli Hill

One of the best summer vacation destinations in Bhubaneswar is Dhauli Hill. Known for its rich heritage, it is considered to be the site of the Kalinga war which changed the course of history. You will be able to see the rock-carved elephant here along with the edicts of Ashoka explaining the ancient war. One of the major tourist attractions here is the peace pagoda called Shanti Stupa, which was built back in the 1970s by the Japanese Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Budha Sangha.

Must Read: Best Places to One Day Short Trip From Bangalore by Car

3. Odisha State Museum

This museum was set up in 1938, but later was shifted to a new building in 1960. If you want to know about Odisha and the dynasties and kingdoms that ruled the land of this state, you must visit this museum. There are more than 10 galleries in this museum, which include antiquities such as manuscripts, scientific tools, weapons and armory, natural history, etc.

4. Nandankanan Zoological Park

This zoological park is spread across an area of 990 acres of land. The zoo and botanical garden cover certain areas of Kanjia Lake and Chandaka Forests. The zoological park houses Asiatic Lions, White Tigers, Indian Pangolin, Crocodiles, and many endangered species. There are 34 aquariums in this park which have varied species of fish.

5. Brahmeshwara Temple

This is one of the best places to visit in Bhubaneswar as you will be able to witness one of the oldest temples in the country. Built in the 9^th century AD, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The kalinga style architecture makes this temple a rare exhibit of its kind and one of the most visited ones in the state. If possible, try to visit this temple during the Hindu festivals to get the full experience and see it in its entire splendor.

6. Mukteshwar Temple

Mukteshwara Deula, is a most places to visit in bhubaneswar orissa. This temple is called by the natives of Odisha, was built in the 10^th century. If you want to see original Odisha architecture, you must visit this temple. The intricate stone carvings of the dome of the temple and its arched gateway, make the temple unique.

Must Read: 15 Summer Vacation Destinations Around Bangalore

7. Lingaraja Temple

Built in the 11^th century AD, even Lingaraja temple showcases the fine Kalinga style architecture. The primary deity being Lord Shiva, this temple contains many images of Vishnu as well. This is a must visit place in Bhubaneswar.

8. Parasurameswara Temple

Constructed between 7^th and 8^th century AD, this is one of the oldest temples that still exist. Like many other temples in the city, this temple is also dedicated to Lord Shiva. The architecture is that of Nagara style. The stone carvings are worth appreciating. This can be one of your summer weekend getaways in Bhubaneswar, as even if it is hot, you can take rest under tall trees in the temple premises.

9. Ekamravan

Also known as the garden of healing, Ekamravan is the place you should definitely visit once, when you are in Bhubaneswar. It is basically a garden with numerous plants, which are used for medicinal purposes. The garden is frequented by visitors for educational purpose but is also filled with lush greenery giving everyone a visual treat.

10. Dhenkanal

Once you are done with touring in Bhubaneswar, you can check out the places near this city. At a distance of 99 km from this city, is located Dhenkanal. Mostly known for its verdant deep forest, you may also come across some fauna here. Apart from the flora and fauna, you may also want to visit other attractions here, which include Kunajakanta Krishna temple, Balabhadra temple, Sambhugopal Temple, etc.

Must Read: Fascinating Road Trips From Hyderabad That You Must Not Miss

11. Puri

It is one of the most visited places for people from the Eastern part of the country. You can reach to this beautiful destination in one and a half hour from Bhubaneswar. The city is standing on the Bay of Bengal and you can visit the Jagannath temple there. The other thing that you must do is to visit the sea beach of the city. While you are at the sea beach, don’t forget to try the variety of delicious fish items, provide you are a non-vegetarian.

12. Konark

The most popular tourist spot in Odisha, the Sun temple of Konark is a fabulously preserved exhibit of the Indian architecture which will keep you glued for hours. You can reach this place in just one hour from Bhubaneswar. Apart from temples, you can also visit the pristine Chandrabhaga Sea Beach here.

13. Chilika

Chilika is located at a distance of 81 km from Bhubaneswar. What differentiates Chilika from the rest of places in the country is its lagoon, which is second largest in the world. You might even see Irrawaddy dolphins in Chilika lake.

As you can see from the few examples mentioned in this blog, Bhubaneswar is a destination which is well preserved and rich in heritage. The place played a significant part in the region’s historical and cultural legacy. This is clearly evident from the architectural wonders that have borne witness to it and are worthy of your time and attention.

Must Read: Best Holi Party in Bangalore