Nicknamed the ‘Temple City’, Bhubaneshwar is the capital of Odisha. A city with a rich culture and history, it is well known for its bamboo basketry, stone and wood carvings, tie and dye textiles, brass and bell metal works and Patta paintings. Built more than 2000 years ago, the city derives its name from ‘Tribhuvaneshwar’ (Lord of Three Worlds). Along with Puri and Konark, the city forms what is popularly known as Odisha’s golden triangle. Here are some of the popular places which you can visit during your trip to Bhubaneshwar:-

Udaygiri and Khandagiri Caves

The rock cut caves which are located within the twin hills are of exquisite beauty. These caves have carvings which were created by artists during the 2nd century BC. You will come across a statue of Rishabdev at the hill top temple located here. These are some of the oldest groups of rock-cut shelters for Jain monks.

They were mostly used for meditation and prayers by the monks. The facades of these cells have court scenes, auspicious objects which are venerated by the Jains, hunting expeditions and royal processions. These caves are frequented by people who have a deep liking for art and architecture.



 

Udaygiri and Khandagiri Caves | Image Resource: sterlingholidays.com

Lingaraja Temple

This temple is one of the most popular temples within Odisha. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shiva who is worshipped here as ‘Lingaraja’. It has a big statue of Shiva which is made from granite and has a diameter of 8 feet. The statue rises to a height of around 54.8 metres. It is bathed with milk, marijuana and water on a regular basis. The temple is believed to have been built in the later part of the 11 th century.

Some of the major festivals which are celebrated within the temple include Mahashiv Ratri, Utthapana Chaturdasi, Rath Yatra, Magha Saptami, Prathamastami and Pravarana Sasthi. Within the temple are 150 minor shrines. The main temple has been divided into four parts such as ‘Natya Shala’, ‘Bhoga Mandap’ and ‘Yajna Shala’.

The major gate is the ‘Simhadwara’ (Lion’s Gate) which is located on the temple’s eastern side. The temple’s outer walls have exquisite sculptures of deities, flowers, birds, animals and creepers. Bhubaneshwar is well connected by the railway route with all major cities across the country. Therefore, you won’t be faced with an issue if you are travelling to the city by train.


 

Railway route | Image Resource: newsd.in

Dhauli Giri

This hill contains many edicts of the Mauryan emperor Ashoka. They have been ornately crafted and are pleasing to the eyes. A sculpted elephant and the symbol of Gautama Buddha are visible in the carvings of the Dhauli Giri hill. It is widely believed to be the place where the famous Kalinga War was fought.

Located on the banks of the Daya river, it had numerous pillars, chaityas and stupas during its hay days. The white peace pagoda which was built here in the ‘70s is also a major attraction.