Best places to visit in Bhubaneswar

India is a country of diverse cultures and traditions, something that makes it unique. One such state that stands out for being deeply rooted in its culture is Odisha. It is home to a plethora of temples and monuments, making it an immensely popular tourist place in India. Bhubaneswar is the capital of Odisha and the most popular tourist destination in the state. With its ancient monuments and beautiful architecture, Bhubaneswar is truly a paradise for tourists. Here is a list of the top 10 places to visit in Bhubaneswar that should be added to your travel itinerary.

10 Best places to visit in Bhubaneswar

Here are the top 10 recommended places to visit in Bhubaneswar.

1. Lingaraj Temple

Lingaraj Temple is one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar and is a highly revered Hindu shrine. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popular pilgrimage site among Hindus. The temple is more than 1000 years old and is a grand example of excellent Kalinga architecture. The intricate carvings of gods and goddesses and the vibrant color scheme are truly a sight to behold.

2. Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar. This ancient Jain monastery is carved out of soft sandstone cliffs and consists of several chambers, passages, and stairs. Each cave has its own unique carvings and sculptures. It is believed that these caves were used by Jain monks during their meditations.

3. Rajarani Temple

The Rajarani Temple is a beautiful 11th-century temple situated near the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. The temple was built in honor of Lord Shiva and has a mesmerizing structure and architecture. The exterior of the temple is decorated with stone carvings of gods and goddesses and the interiors of the temple have beautiful paintings of various Hindu gods and goddesses. The temple is surrounded by lush green gardens and ponds, which make the atmosphere of the temple truly magical.

4. Dhauli Hills

Dhauli Hills overlooks the River Daya and is one of the most popular tourist spots in Bhubaneswar. It is a sacred site for Buddhists as it is believed to be the site of Kalinga War, which was fought between Emperor Ashoka and the rulers of the Kalinga Empire. The place is known for its majestic hilltop edifice, the rock edict, and the peace pagoda. A peaceful and spiritual atmosphere pervades the whole place.

5. Nandankanan Zoological Park

Nandankanan Zoological Park is a huge wildlife park located in Bhubaneswar. It is home to many rare and exotic animals and birds, such as the white tigers, panthers, lions, and several and species of birds. The park also has a botanical garden that boasts of a wide variety of flowers, trees, and cacti. The park also has a mini-train and a toy train that takes visitors around the park.

6. Odisha State Museum

The Odisha State Museum is one of the best places to visit in Bhubaneswar. It is a multi-disciplinary museum that showcases the extensive history, archaeology, culture, art, and anthropology of Odisha. The museum also has an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, textiles, coins, arms, and armor from the ancient, medieval, and modern times. It is one of the must-visit places in Bhubaneswar.

7. Nandankanan Aquarium

Nandankanan Aquarium is the largest freshwater aquarium in the country and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar. It is home to a wide variety of aquatic life, such as fish, turtles, eels, and crabs. Apart from the aquarium, the place also has a butterfly park, a Japanese garden, and an Orchidarium. It is the perfect place for a family outing.

8. Bhimkund

Bhimkund, located 12.8 km from Bhubaneswar, is an important religious and historic site for people following Hinduism. It is believed that Lord Rama had visited this place and his footprints can be seen here. It is a beautiful destination and the perfect place to spend some peaceful time amidst Nature.

9. Udayagiri and Khandagiri Twin Hills

The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Twin Hills are an adaptation of Chandragiri and Udayagiri Caves, created in the 3rd century BCE by Gautama Buddha. The hills are a popular tourist destination as they have several interesting sculptures and carvings of mythological figures. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful views of the city from the hilltop.

10. Chilika Lake

Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lagoon in India and is home to a wide variety of aquatic life, including over 160 species of birds. The lagoon is located in the Puri district and is a popular spot for migratory birds. The lake displays a different beauty in each of its seasons, a magical sight to behold.

Conclusion

Bhubaneswar is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer to tourists. From its ancient monuments and temples to its abundant wildlife and picturesque landscapes, Bhubaneswar is the perfect mix of nature and culture. The city has a lot of places that can offer a wonderful experience to visitors. The above-mentioned list of top 10 places to visit in Bhubaneswar should help you explore the best of what the city has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Provided below are responses to frequently asked questions pertaining to the best places to visit in Bhubaneswar.

What are the must-see places in Bhubaneswar?

The must-see places in Bhubaneswar are: Lingaraj Temple, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Rajarani Temple, Dhauli Hills, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Odisha State Museum, Nandankanan Aquarium, Bhimkund, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Twin Hills, and Chilika Lake.

How far are Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves from Bhubaneswar?

Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves are located about 5 km from the center of Bhubaneswar.

How many animals are there at Nandankanan Zoological Park?

Nandankanan Zoological Park is home to more than 2000 animals and birds, including tigers, lions, panthers, and several species of birds.