The capital of Odisha, Bhubaneswar is famous for its old temples and architectures. It is here that Emperor Ashoka fought the dreaded Kalinga War and therafter took up Buddhism on seeing the brutality of war.
Tourists can explore these places and relive the history here. So let us set out to explore the places you can see while visiting Bhubaneswar.
Lingaraj Temple
A 10th century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Lingaraj Temple is described as the 'truest form of dream and reality'.
The intricate carvings and the architecture will leave you in a daze. The temple is strictly for Hindu's only.
View of the temple.
Photo Courtesy: G.-U. Tolkiehn
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
The two hills of Udayagiri and Khandagiri have carved in them a Jain monastery. The caves are filled with beautiful carvings.
The Rani Gumpha or the Queen's Cave is the largest and is well decorated. There is also the Hati Gumpha or Elephant Cave which showcases the King Kharavela's reign.
Tourists at the cave.
Photo Courtesy: Steve Browne & John Verkleir
Dhauli Giri
Dhauli Giri holds an important place in history. It is here that Emperor Ashoka realised the brutality of war and thus, filled with remorse, took up Buddhism. The Shanti Stupa is located here and is a symbol of peace.
View of the Stupa.
Photo Courtesy: Sankara Subramanian
Travel to the 4 Unique Forts of Odisha
Mukteshwara Temple
Dating back to 10th century, the Mukteshwara Temple marks the important transition phase between the early and the later half of the Kalinga architecture.
The highlight is the magnificent gateway, an arched masterpiece, reminiscent of Buddhist influence in Odisha. This temple is considered to be the gem of Odishan architecture.
The beautiful sculptures eloquently speak of the sense of proportion and perspective of the sculptor and their unique ability in the exact depiction of the minutest objects.
A sculpture in the temple.
Photo Courtesy: Ramnath Bhat
Nandankanan Zoo
The Nandankanan Zoo houses many a wild animals of which noteworthy is the white tiger. There is a lake inside the zoo where you can go boating. There is a ropeway located here and the Botanical Gardens is adjacent to the zoo.
A white tiger spotted at the zoo.
Photo Courtesy: Dreamodisha
How to Reach Bhubaneswar
By Air: Bhubaneswar can be easily reached by taking a flight to the Biju Paknaik Airport located in the city. The airport provides connectivity to various major towns and cities of India.
By Rail: Bhubaneswar is connected by super-fast trains to the major cities and towns of the country. The railway station of Bhubaneswar is situated in the heart of the city.
By Road: Bhubaneswar is well linked by buses to major towns and cities in and around Odisha.