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Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is a city where history and modernity coexist. Known as the "Temple City of India," it is home to magnificent temples showcasing the grandeur of Kalinga architecture. Over time, Bhubaneswar has evolved into an emerging IT and education hub while preserving its rich cultural heritage. From the ancient Lingaraj Temple and serene Dhauli Shanti Stupa to bustling markets and vibrant street food joints, Bhubaneswar offers a unique blend of tradition, urban growth, and culinary delights. Whether you're here for heritage, adventure, or cuisine, Bhubaneswar promises a memorable experience.

Arriving/Departing from Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is served by Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), which is about 4 km from the Bhubaneswar Railway Station and 6 km from the city centre. It operates domestic flights and limited international flights, connecting Bhubaneswar to major cities across India and abroad.

Air India Express operates regular flights to and from Bhubaneswar, ensuring seamless connectivity for travellers. Travellers should arrive at least 2 hours before domestic departures and 3 hours before international flights to ensure smooth check-in and security clearance.

For airport transfers, travellers can choose from Mo Bus, prepaid taxis, ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber, or auto-rickshaws.

Best Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is a city of temples, caves, and heritage sites, offering a mix of ancient history and natural beauty. These are the must-visit attractions that define the city's character.

• Mukteshwar Temple: A 10th-century Shiva temple renowned for its exquisite carvings and intricately designed gateway arch. The temple is open from 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM and has free entry.

• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: Ancient rock-cut caves that served as Jain monastic retreats, featuring inscriptions from King Kharavela’s reign. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry fees are ₹15 for Indians and ₹200 for international visitors.

• Nandankanan Zoological Park: A wildlife sanctuary and zoo that is home to white tigers and Asiatic lions. It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Mondays. The entry fee is ₹50 for adults and ₹10 for children.

• Dhauli Shanti Stupa: A serene Buddhist site on a hilltop with breathtaking views of the Daya River, where Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism after the Kalinga War. It is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and entry is free.

• Chausath Yogini Temple: This temple on the banks of the Bhargavi River has 64 intricately carved yogini statues. It is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with free entry.

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• Ananta Vasudeva Temple: A 13th-century temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, Balarama, and Subhadra, showcasing Kalinga architecture. Located near Bindu Sagar Lake, it is open daily from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM with free entry.

• Bindu Sagar Lake: This is a sacred water body near Lingaraj Temple, steeped in mythology and believed to contain drops from all holy rivers. It plays a vital role in temple rituals and remains open all day with no entry fee.

• Odisha State Tribal Museum: Showcases Odisha’s rich tribal heritage through five galleries, life-size tribal huts, shrines, and live craft demonstrations. Entry is free, and the museum is open daily from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, except Mondays.

• Ekamra Kanan: A 500-acre botanical garden featuring a vast cactus garden, a 45-acre boating lake, vibrant rose and hibiscus gardens, a musical fountain, and walking trails. It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with an entry fee of ₹25 per person.

• Brahmeswara Temple: A stunning 11th-century temple with Kalinga architecture, intricate carvings, and tantric imagery. Located 3 km from Lingaraja Temple, it is open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM with free entry.

Best Places to Shop in Bhubaneswar

Shopping in Bhubaneswar is a delightful experience, offering everything from traditional Odisha handicrafts to modern retail outlets.

• Bapuji Nagar Market: One of the oldest markets in Bhubaneswar, it is known for clothing, footwear, accessories, Odia handlooms, handicrafts, furniture, and electronics at affordable prices. Open daily with no fixed timings.

• Utkalika: This place is renowned for authentic handloom and handicraft products, offering textiles, brass appliqué, terracotta, tribal jewellery, and bell metal items. Store timings can vary by location, but are usually open between 10:00 AM and 8:30 PM.

• Ekamra Haat: The Best place to buy authentic Odisha handlooms, intricate Pattachitra paintings, and exquisite silver filigree jewellery. The open-air market also features live craft demonstrations and food stalls. It is open daily from 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

• Nexus Esplanade Mall: Odisha’s largest shopping destination features over 130 domestic and international brands. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

• Boyanika: This Odisha State Handloom Weavers' Co-Operative offers an exclusive collection of Sambalpuri, Bomkai, and Ikat sarees directly sourced from artisans. It is open from Monday to Friday from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

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• BMC Keshari Mall: Bhubaneswar’s modern shopping mall features branded outlets, fashion stores, and food courts under one roof. It is open daily from 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM.

• Unit-2 Market Building: A busy, affordable market with local brands offering traditional attire, clothing, bags, handicrafts, electronics, toys, souvenirs, and food stalls. It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

• Sahid Nagar Market: Budget-friendly shopping destination offering trendy clothes, accessories, and home décor items. The timings of stores can vary, but are usually open from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

• Master Canteen Chowk: A historic shopping hub offering Odisha’s local crafts, bamboo basketry, brassware, ethnic wear, and household items at budget-friendly prices. The shops here typically operate daily from around 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

• Odisha Art Emporium: This place specialises in a wide selection of handloom silk sarees and designer handloom sarees, along with other traditional textiles and handicrafts. It is open daily from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

Best Places to Eat in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar’s food scene is a mix of traditional Odia delicacies and popular North and South Indian cuisines. Here are some of the top places to eat:

• Dalma: A must-visit restaurant known for its authentic Odia thalis and dishes like Pakhala Bhata. The average cost for two is approximately ₹1,000.

• Kanika at Mayfair Lagoon: Serves authentic Odia cuisine in an elegant setting. Must-try dishes include Bhetki fish in mustard gravy and Odia thali. The average cost for two is ₹1,800.

• Hare Krishna Restaurant: Popular among vegetarians for its simple yet flavourful satvik food, including dosas, parathas, and North Indian thalis. The average cost for two is ₹300.

• Odisha Hotel: Multiple outlets with popular dishes, including Mutton Curry, Crab Curry, Chakuli Pitha, and Dahi Pakhala. Their Odia thali is also highly recommended. The average cost for two is ₹500.

• The Restaurant at Trident Hotel: This restaurant offers exquisite seafood, North Indian cuisine, and Odia Thalis. Must-try dishes include Lehsuni Jhinga, Butter Chicken, and baked fondant cake. The average cost for two is ₹2,500.

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• Atithi Devo Bhaba: This place specialises in authentic Odia cuisine, offering veg and non-veg thalis, Crab Curry, Mutton Aloo Jhola, and Chhena Poda, with the average cost for two at ₹1,000.

• Chhapan Bhog: Popular sweet shop offering Odia sweets, North Indian cuisine, and street food. Signature sweets include Kesar Jalebi, Chenna Sweets, and unique kulfi flavours like Tender Coconut and Blueberry. The average cost for two is ₹370.

• Ama Handishala: Serves authentic Odia cuisine with homely flavours. Signature dishes include Mutton Thali, Crab Curry, Dalma, and Pakhala. The average cost for two is ₹250.

• Lingaraj Lassi: Serves refreshing lassis, kulfi faloodas, and milkshakes and is famous for its rich, creamy lassi, especially the signature Rabri Lassi. The average cost for two is ₹100.

• Zaika: This place offers a fine dining experience with a mix of Oriya and North Indian cuisine. Must-try dishes include Mutton Biryani and Coca-Cola Masala. The average cost for two is approximately ₹1,800.

Best Getaways Around Bhubaneswar

For those looking to explore beyond the city, Bhubaneswar offers easy access to several incredible destinations, from ancient temples to wildlife sanctuaries.

• Puri: Located 65 km from Bhubaneswar, Puri is famous for the Jagannath Temple, Golden Beach, and vibrant Rath Yatra, making it a key pilgrimage and coastal getaway spot.

• Konark: About 70 km from Bhubaneswar, the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, is a 13th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu sun god, Surya.

• Chilika Lake: India's largest coastal lagoon, 70 km from Bhubaneswar, is a major wintering ground for migratory birds and sustains over 150,000 fisherfolk across shoreline villages.

• Simlipal National Park: This tiger reserve, 200 km from Bhubaneswar, is home to diverse flora, including 94 orchid species and fauna such as tigers, elephants, hill mynahs, and king cobras. It features stunning waterfalls like Joranda and Barehipani.

• Gopalpur: This tranquil beach town, 170 km away from Bhubaneswar, is a perfect relaxing coastal getaway. A lighthouse provides 360-degree views of Gopalpur, the sea, and a portion of Chilika Lake.

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• Satkosia Gorge: A beautiful wildlife sanctuary 160 km from Bhubaneswar, where the Mahanadi River cuts through a scenic valley, offering boat rides and crocodile sightings.

• Raghurajpur Heritage Village: Located 50 km from Bhubaneswar, this award-winning crafts village is famous for Pattachitra paintings, palm leaf engravings, and stone carvings. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase handcrafted souvenirs.

• Bhitarkanika National Park: This mangrove forest, 140 km from Bhubaneswar, is famous for its saltwater crocodiles, birdwatching, and boat safaris. Bordering Bhitarkanika to the east, Gahirmatha Beach is the largest nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles.

• Cuttack: Cuttack, the 'Silver City' of Odisha, located between 26-29 km from Bhubaneswar, is rich in history and culture. Top attractions include Barabati Fort, Cuttack Chandi Temple, Netaji Birth Place Museum, and Odisha Maritime Museum.

• Chandipur Beach: Chandipur, located approximately 200 km from Bhubaneswar, is known for its unique disappearing sea. The sea recedes up to 5 km during low tide, allowing visitors to walk on the seabed.