Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar: Top Destinations, Tips & Attractions

Bhubaneswar has been rightly ascribed the title ‘Temple city of India’ as once it had 5000 temples. The city is a growing tourist hub with swarms of tourists thronging every year to pay visit to this enchanting tourist destination.

Bhubaneshwar Travel Guide

Bhubaneshwar is the capital of Orissa, a significant commercial and trading hub, and a popular tourist destination in India. Known as the ‘Temple City of India,’ it is famous for its rich religious tradition and culture. The city is home to various temples and religious monuments from ancient times.

Bhubaneswar’s history dates back around 2000 years. The region became a prominent settlement during the reign of King Kharavela. It was also an important trading centre in the Islamic and Mughal Empires. After India’s independence from British rule, the city became part of Orissa and became the capital in 1948.

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Most Famous Tourist Places in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is replete with attractions that reflect its historical, cultural, and natural beauty. Here are the must-visit spots:

Lingaraj Temple

One of India’s oldest and most revered temples, the 11th-century Lingaraj Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its intricate architecture and spiritual ambience make it a highlight of Bhubaneswar.

Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

These ancient Jain rock-cut caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, are adorned with inscriptions and carvings. They offer a fascinating glimpse into Odisha’s history and Jain heritage.

Dhauli Shanti Stupa

Located on the banks of the Daya River, this white peace pagoda commemorates the Kalinga War and Emperor Ashoka’s transformation to Buddhism. The serene setting adds to its appeal.

Mukteshwar Temple

A gem of Odia architecture, the Mukteshwar Temple is renowned for its ornate carvings and arched gateway. It is a UNESCO-recognized heritage site.

Best Time to Visit Bhubaneswar

The climate of Bhubaneswar, Orissa, is primarily tropical, with hot and humid summers and cool and dry winters. The ideal time to travel to Bhubaneswar is between October and March when the weather is fine, and there is very little rainfall.

How to Reach Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is well-connected by air, train, and road, making it easily accessible:

By Air

Biju Patnaik International Airport connects Bhubaneswar to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The airport regularly receives regular and connecting flights with limited access to international flights. Upon reaching the airport, you can hire a taxi or any local transportation.

By Train

Bhubaneswar Railway Station is a significant railhead with excellent connectivity to cities across India. Once you reach the railway station, you can take a bus, auto-rickshaw, or cab to the city.

By Road

Bhubaneswar is linked to neighbouring states by a network of national highways. Buses and private taxis are available from cities like Puri, Cuttack, and Kolkata. The smooth road ensures travellers enjoy the journey, with picturesque views adding to the excitement.

Getting Around Bhubaneswar

Traveling within Bhubaneswar is convenient thanks to its reliable transportation options:

Auto Rickshaws: A budget-friendly option for short distances.
Buses: The city offers government and private bus services for economical travel.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Ola and Uber are available for comfortable and hassle-free commutes.

Places to Eat in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Odia cuisine and global flavours. Don’t miss these spots:

Fine Dining Restaurants

Trident Hotel Restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international cuisine and impeccable service. Meals for two cost around INR 2,000.
Mayfair Lagoon’s Nakli Dhaba: Known for authentic Odia and North Indian cuisine. Costs approx. INR 1,800 for two.

Street Foods

Dahi Bara Aloo Dum: A tangy and spicy delight at street food stalls.
Chhena Poda: Odisha’s signature sweet made from baked cottage cheese.
Pakhala Bhata: A traditional fermented rice dish, perfect for beating the summer heat.

Shopping in Bhubaneswar

When touring Bhubaneshwar, tourists are expected to indulge in shopping activities. The city is a treasure trove of shops and bazaars scattered near all the major tourist attractions. Here, one can shop for interesting handmade articles, including silk sarees. Paintings and products made from sea shells are equally alluring.

Stay Options in Bhubaneswar

Many hotels in Bhubaneshwar are available in various categories to accommodate the large number of tourists who flock there every year. These hotels cater to tourists’ diverse demands and offer comfortable accommodations.

Nearby Tourist Places from Bhubaneswar

From Bhubaneshwar, tourists can also undertake excursions to the beautiful seaside area of Puri. It is a well-known religious city and is home to the famous temple of Lord Jagannath. Puri is just 2 hours drive from Bhubaneswar. One can also make wildlife trips to the nearby Chandaka Wildlife Reserve and Nandankanan Zoo.