Bhubaneswar

Introduction

You can explore a landscape where ancient history meets modern growth in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha. Known as the "Temple City," this destination is defined by its vast collection of temples and its position within the Swarna Tribhuja alongside Puri and Konark. While the contemporary city was formally established in the mid-20th century, the surrounding areas possess a history dating back to the 1st century BCE.

As you navigate the city, you will encounter a rich confluence of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain heritage. The old town area, historically referred to as Chakra Khetra and Ekamra Khetra, features numerous Kalingan temples constructed between the 6th and 13th centuries. Today, the city serves as a modern hub for tourism, sports, and information technology.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by understanding that Bhubaneswar is celebrated as a Temple City, showcasing a wide range of Kalinga architecture. As part of the Swarna Tribhuja, it sits alongside Puri and Konark as a major destination in eastern India. While Odia is the primary local language, you can also communicate easily in Hindi and English as the city embraces a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

To ensure a smooth trip, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Dress in cool, white clothing during the summer months to stay comfortable.
• Be cautious of touts near temples, hotels, and railway stations; remain firm but polite if you wish to decline their services.
• While the city is generally peaceful and clean, avoid traveling late at night as the area tends to sleep early.
• In the event of any issues with transportation providers like taxi or auto-rickshaw drivers, report the matter immediately to a nearby police outpost.

Getting there

You can arrive in the city by plane at Biju Patnaik International Airport, which is well-maintained and offers direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai. International connections are available from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Upon arrival, you can choose between a prepaid taxi service or a private cab agency located at the exit; however, you may find better transportation options once you enter the city. Alternatively, you can arrange a radio cab if your destination is within the local area.

The city serves as a major railway hub on the main line between Kolkata and Chennai, providing excellent connectivity to most parts of India through two long-distance stations. For those traveling by road, the city sits on National Highway 16. You can also reach the city by bus via the Baramunda Bus Station, which is located away from the center and accessible by auto_rickshaw.

Getting around

Navigating the well-laid out streets of Bhubaneswar is straightforward and affordable. You can choose from various modes of transport depending on your needs:

• Town buses run throughout the city at regular intervals, offering a budget-friendly way to travel across different areas.
• Auto-rickshaws serve as a primary mode of transport and are available on most streets; you can hire them for short distances or book them for longer periods covering specific tourist spots.
• Several online cab-hailing companies provide options for private cars, shared taxis, and bike rentals, which are useful for day trips to nearby locations like Puri, Konark, or Chilika.

Where to stay

You can find a wide range of accommodations in the city, from budget-friendly options to more upscale stays. For those seeking basic amenities and comfortable beds on a quiet back street near local breakfast stands and a supermarket, you might choose a stay in the Laxmi Sagar area. If you prefer a more modern experience with an on-site cafe and ATM, there are well-regarded hotels that offer good value for your money. Other options include properties featuring high-quality interiors or those located within the railway station for a clean and safe stay.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose from various styles of lodging:

• A lodge in Ashok Nagar with basic but functional conditions.
• Homestay options in Patrapada for a more local feel.
• Retiring rooms located directly inside the railway station.
• Hotels offering comfortable bars and well-maintained interiors.

Food & drink

Savor the local flavors of Odisha by visiting Dalma for authentic Odiya cuisine in the Chandrasekharpur area. If you prefer a variety of options, Country Kitchen offers spicy non-vegetarian dishes, primarily chicken, alongside a separate vegetarian menu. Other dining choices include Hare Krishna, a dedicated vegetarian restaurant near the railway station, and Mirch Masala located in Patia.

While the city is not known for a heavy party scene, you can unwind at several local spots:

• The Cellar offers an atmosphere where you can bowl, dance to Bollywood music, and enjoy drinks.
• Desire provides a space with pleasant interiors for relaxing and drinking.
• Rock On serves as a nice location to spend time with friends over drinks.
• Xstacy Lounge provides another option for your evening plans.

What to see and do

Explore an ancient city where the architectural footprints of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism coexist. You can wander through the Old Town area, where hundreds of temples are nestled within an intricate network of lanes and bylanes. This region serves as a primary center for Kalinga style Hindu architecture, showcasing some of its finest examples from between the 10th and 13th centuries. To see these sites, you can choose to walk through the narrow paths or use auto-rickshaws to navigate the cluster of structures centered around Bindu Sarovar.

The city offers a variety of cultural and natural landmarks for your visit:

• Explore major temples such as Lingaraja, known for its intricate carvings; Mukteswara, featuring a magnificent torana; and Parasurameswara, one of the oldest surviving structures in the region.
• Visit Rajarani Temple to see its unique red-gold sandstone and curved exterior, or visit Ananta Vasudeva, a 13th-century temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
• Discover other nearby sites including Bhaskareswar, Megheswar, and Bramehswara temples, all of which showcase various styles of Odisha architecture.
• Experience the local environment at the botanical garden, visit several museums, or explore a large zoological park that offers safaris.

When to go

You can experience a variety of climates in Bhubaneswar throughout the year, ranging from dry periods to heavy rainfall. The winter season offers the coolest and driest conditions for your visit. As you move into spring, you will notice the temperature begin to rise as the region transitions toward the summer heat.

During the summer months, you can expect extremely hot and humid conditions. The monsoon season follows, bringing heavy rains from the Bay of Bengal that drench the city. After the monsoon rains subside, a transition period occurs where temperatures begin to moderate before the winter season returns.

Day one, you arrive in the Temple City and begin your journey through the historic landscapes of Odisha. You can explore the sacred sites within the Ekamra Khetra to experience the rich heritage of the region.

Day two, you travel toward the Swarna Tribhuja to see the architectural wonders of Konark and Puri. These locations offer a deep connection to the ancient traditions that have shaped the land for centuries.

Day three, you spend your final day reflecting on the cultural history of Kalinga. You can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere before preparing for your departure from the region.