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Bhubaneswar Tourism

Bhubaneswar - The Land of Thousand Temples

Situated south west to Mahanadi River, Bhubaneswar is the capital city of Orissa. Name 'Bhubaneswar' in Sanskrit means 'God's World'. Bhubaneswar became the capital of Orissa in 1948, after India's independence. The city has also served as a capital for ancient Kalinga. Today, it is the commercial center of Orissa. It is said that, there were once 7000 temples in the city which earned it the name 'Temple City of India'. There are still more than 600 temples which makes it an important Hindu Pilgrimage. These temples have been constructed over a long period of time, thus showing he gradual changes that took place in styles of temple architecture. With Dhauli hills, a major Buddhist center, just few kilometers away from here, Bhubaneswar also receives a lot of Buddhism followers. Bhubaneswar is one of the three cities that form the golden triangle in Orissa. Puri and Konark are the other two.

Bhubaneswar is the venue for many fairs and festival. Main event is the procession of Lord Shiva (Lingaraja) from Lingaraja temple to Rameshwara Temple. It takes place on the day of Ashokashtami. The chariot of the God is pulled by hundreds of devotees. Durga Puja is a major part of Bhubaneswar life and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and gala. There is no better place than Bhubaneswar to go for Shopping. It gives the option of shopping for traditional Oddisi items from its markets and also has huge showrooms for branded items.

Attractions - Devotion Through Stones

Main attractions of Bhubaneswar are mostly temples and most of them were built before 10th century. Apart from Parashurameshwara Temple, Vaital Deul and Mukteshwar Temple, there are many more important temples in Bhubaneswar. Also visit Dhauli, which is one of the major Buddhist center in India. It is situated at a distance of just 8 km.

Parashurameshwara Temple

Parashurameshwara Temple is one of the most well preserved temples in Orissa. Built in 7 century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a cluster of 20 other smaller temples. Though the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, but you will find images of Lord Vishnu, Goddesses, Lord Yama and Lord Surya. The temple is quite extensively carved and is a perfect example of ancient temple architecture.

Vaital Deul

If you have been to few temples in Orissa, then Vaital Deul will surprise you as much as it will mesmerize you. The style of its architecture is absolutely different from what you would have seen till now. The temple is dedicated to Chamunda (incarnation of Goddess Kali). The temple build in 8th century is more based on Khakhara Order rather than Kalinga style. Khakhara Order is a sub division of Kalinga School. The tower (deul) of the temple is rectangular in shape and has the more common deul on all four sides. The architecture seems a lot more complicated and stunning.

Mukteshwar Temple

It is one of the most beautiful temples in Orissa. Build in 10th century; the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its architecture is more in Kalinga Temple style. The outer walls show figures of ascetics in various positions of meditations. You will be amazed to see carvings related to Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism all together. Often referred to as 'gem of Orissa', temple's main attraction is the magnificent torana-the decorated arch gateway.

Dhauli

Situated at a distance of 8 Km from Bhubaneswar is Dhauli Hills which was witness to one of the most significant wars in Indian History, the Kalinga War. The war saw the transformation of a monstrous king into one of the most revered figures of mercy and compassion. King Ashoka mastered the principles of Buddhism and spread it to places far and wide. The place is famous for the Buddhist Peace Pagoda which was built here in the seventies by Japan Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha. It is popularly known as Shanti Stupa.

Bhubaneswar is the capital of Orissa. So you don't have to worry about finding a hotel according to your needs. All kinds of hotels ranging from ultra luxurious to budget hotels are present here in plenty. Bhubaneswar is also a hot spot for many business travelers as well. So to look after all their needs, most hotels have incorporated great business facilities along with other luxurious features. The most luxurious hotels here are Hotel Oberoi, Mayfair Lagoon, and The trident Bhubaneswar. Other good hotels in Bhubaneswar are Swosti Plaza, Marrion and Crown.

Getting There

By Air

Bhubaneswar has its own airport named Biju Patnaik Airport. Regular flights operate to and from Bhubaneswar to all metros and major destinations in India. The airport is around 3 km from city center and you can hire taxi to any hotel in the city.

By Rail

Bhubaneswar is one of the most important railway stations in Eastern India. It has connecting trains to many states and major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

By Road

The city being the capital, is well connected to all parts of the state and nearby states as well. There is regular bus service to and from all major cities. The main bus stand is at a distance of 8 km from the city center.

Local Transport

Auto rickshaws are the main player in transportation inside the city. There are bus services and taxis as to roam around.