A Day in Bhubaneswar"

Created by: Cityseeker

15 Locations Bookmarked

Ekamra Haat "Crafts at its Best"

With a widespread reputation of so many unique techniques of painting and crafts, Bhubaneswar offers a lot of choice for traditional art enthusiasts. One of the landmark craft destinations in Bhubaneswar city, Ekamra Haat is the platform for traditional artisans of the region to exhibit their skills. The star attractions here are 'Pattachitra' (traditional mythological painting on processed fabric canvas) and 'Dhokra' (ancient metal casting technique) along with applique works, stone and wood carvings, and palm-leaf prints. Hand-woven clothes, which are characterized and named after the districts it come from, are also displayed in abundance here. Exhibitions are often held on weekdays and provide the perfect setting for craftsmen to interact with the potential customer. Inside the complex, that spreads over 2 hectares (5 acres), there are light refreshment centers and an amphitheater. Pay a visit and it's almost certain that one is assured to find something interesting.

+91 674 239 3169 [email protected] Madhusudan Marg, Bhubaneswar

Odisha State Museum

"Artifacts From Orissa"

Founded by two famous historians during the time of the British rule, the Odisha State Museum at Bhubaneswar was built with the sole idea in mind: to show the world the riches that have been found in this small state. The museum will give you a detailed insight into the traditional lineage of this quaint Indian state. Also on display are a range of artifacts by Steve Browne & John such as copper plates, inscriptions and more, that have been discovered Verkleir during excavations. The Odisha State Museum will teach you a lot about Odisha and its people, a fascinating state with rich stories and culture. For further details, do visit their website.

+91 674 243 1597 orissamuseum.nic.in/ Lewis Road, Puri-Cuttack Road, Near Kalpana Square, Bhubaneswar

Rameswar Temple "Structurally Superior"

Rameswar Temple, also known as 'Mausima Mandir' of Lingaraj Temple, is a prominent attraction in the temple city. Built in the 9th Century, this temple is yet another brilliant spectacle of Kalingan architecture. Though the wall of the spire conspicuously lacks the miniature erotica one notice in most of the other temples, the towering structure has a beautiful and symmetric design. The premises are adorned with natural green and the pond located next to the temple adds to the scenic scope. The curated landscape and the devotees queuing for ritualistic offerings pose quite a contrasting visual here, when compared to the mostly chaotic Hindu places of worship. During Ram Navami celebrations, Lord Lingaraj visits this temple and stays there for four days. Other attractions like Bharateswar Temple, Shatrughaneswar Temple and Ramakrisha Math are quite close by.

+91 674 243 2177 (Tourist orissatourism.gov.in/ [email protected] Bhubaneswar Marg, Information) n Bhubaneswar

Rajarani Temple "Inspired, Ancient Design"

Bhubaneshwar's Rajarani Temple is a marvelous spectacle of traditional Kalingan architecture. Skillfully crafted from Rajarani, a local sandstone, the temple is, perhaps, best known for the erotic carvings which are hewn on to its time-worn walls. The temple also bears considerable traces of the Panchatantra style of architecture and is believed to have influenced the by Amartyabag design of several notable temples across central India. The temple is built in two parts, consisting of a jagamohana topped by a pyramidal roof and a vimana crowned by a deul, a soaring temple spire, which, alone, is an architectural marvel. Complete with a tapestry of pillars, ornamental entrances and intricately-carved sculptures, the Rajarani Temple commands religious and historical significance in equal measure.

+91 674 243 2177 (Tourist orissatourism.gov.in/ [email protected] Tankapani Road, Information) n Bhubaneswar

Parasurameswar Temple "Ancient Wisdom"

A spectacular emblem of Odia Hinduism, Parasurameswara Temple is a stunning, well-maintained shrine that is steeped in religious fervor. One of the oldest among the spectacular temples of Bhubaneswar, Parasurameswara is awash in Nagara and Kalinga styles of architecture. Built in the 7th Century, this ancient religious spot follows a pattern that is by Balaji typical of the region's temples. A rising dome (deul) is attached to a short, flat roofed hall (jagamohana), and the walls are adorned with masterful carvings of mythological characters and erotic symbols. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most visited sights in the area along with the vast Bindu Sagar Lake and the majestic Lingaraj Temple. Complete with a vimana, floral motifs and intricate carvings of religious symbols, Parasurameswara Temple is not only one of the most frequented, but also one of the most revered sites in Odisha.

+91 674 243 2177 (Tourist orissatourism.gov.in/ [email protected] Kedar Gouri Lane, Information) n Bhubaneswar

Regional Science Centre "Food for the Brain!"

Located in a sprawling 2 hectare(8 acre) campus, Regional Science Centre is an essential part of any tour itinerary of the city of Bhubaneswar. It proves a contrasting and welcome change to the typical scenic texture of the city which is so full of temples and archeological monuments. Imparting a scientific temperament into young minds, this center has been in existence since September 18th, 1989. Interactive displays rule here like any other science museums and assure the visitors to not have a dull moment inside. Explore deeper and one will find specific galleries inside the center like Mathematics Gallery, Motion Gallery and Popular Science Gallery. The huge park inside the campus have a large variety of three- dimensional exhibits amidst masterfully created green landscape. The training programs and the light and sound shows organized by the center are also quite popular in the city. The center boasts air-conditioned event and conference facilities as well. Science enthusiasts and students should definitely pay a visit - it will refresh the thinking mind.

+91 674 254 2795 [email protected] Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Bhubaneswar Bindu Sagar Lake "A Drop of Everything!"

With immense mythological significance to its credit, Bindu Sagar Lake stands as the major landmark in a city that is abundantly blessed with historic temples. A vast number of architectural treasures find existence in the area surrounding this huge water body which has a length of 396 meters (1300 feet) and a width of 213 meters (700 feet). Believed to be created by Lord Shiva, the supreme God of Hindu scriptures, the water here is believed to contain a little of every holy river and lake in the country. The literal translation of the name is 'Ocean drop' and no wonder why believers and pilgrims consider this as one of the most noteworthy sights in Bhubaneswar. The lake is located in walkable distance from Lingaraj Temple.

+91 674 243 0764 (Tourist www.panthanivas.com/ [email protected] Bindu Sagar Road, Information) Bhubaneswar

Pathani Samanta Planetarium "The Universe in a Nutshell"

Hugely engaging outer space visuals await visitors at this spectacular venue in Bhubaneswar city center. The center plays a pivotal role in developing the city's interest in stellar space with its regular shows. Also held here is a range of interesting workshops and conferences on specific celestial events. Inside the center one can find astronomical equipments on display and a good library with an elaborate collection of books in astronomy, physics and technology. This is a must-visit for everyone who is in awe of the gigantic proportions of our universe.

+91 674 258 1613 Sachivalaya Marg, Bhubaneswar

Lord Lingaraj Temple "Revered Hindu Shrine"

One of Bhubaneswar's largest, oldest and most emblematic temples, the Lingaraja Temple is an exemplary example of Kalinga architecture. The mighty central tower rises to a height of 55 meters (180 feet), while smaller shrines dedicated to various deities are scattered throughout its premises. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, was originally constructed by Nitun007 in the 6th Century by the Somavanshi kings, with later additions by the Ganga rulers. With its sculpted towers, ornate roofs and lengthy inscriptions, the Lingaraja Temple is revered by Hindus across the world, many of whom make their way here from distant quarters to be within reach of the temple's spiritual aura.

+91 674 243 0764 (Tourist www.orissatourismindia.com/lingar Lingaraj Temple Road, Bhubaneswar Information) aj-temple-bhubaneswar.html

Utkal University "Imparting Knowledge"

Regarded as the Bhubaneswar's oldest university, Utkal University has set a benchmark in the standard of education. The university takes pride in being one of the biggest affiliated universities in India banked with largest number of educational departments. Besides focusing on academics, the university also encourages active participation of students in sports and other inter-collegiate events held regularly in the campus. Needless to say, that this institute has produced some of the brightest minds that have contributed to the nation's progress.

+91 674 258 2817 www.utkal-university.org/ University Way, Bhubaneswar Regional Museum of Natural History "Get Acquainted with Our Environment"

In 2004, Ministry of Environment and Forests, New Delhi undertook a brilliant initiative of opening an eastern center of National Museum of Natural History. Since then, people across all ages are freely invited to explore this well-planned museum in Bhubaneswar that acquaints us with environment, nature and its inhabitants. Visitors are taken through the fascinating biodiversity gallery and a separate section dedicated to the lesser-known North-east biodiversity. Other interesting displays of the museum include the African Gallery, Insect Corner, a whale and elephant skeleton, a well-stocked library and a Discovery Center. The museum's effort to promote environmental education is not just restricted to permanent and temporary exhibits. Instead they organize out-bound educational programs for schools and colleges, film shows on nature and environment, and unique events for the specially abled as well. Also, the Exhibition on Wheels is a mobile exhibition arranged by the museum for those who cannot visit the museum. To sum it up, visitors are assured an informative and entertaining experience.

+91 674 258 4114 [email protected] Sachivalaya Marg, Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar "History Beckons"

Bhubaneswar is one of the oldest cities in India and is still maintaining its archaic value in style with the well-preserved monuments that radiate past glory. The old town area around the picturesque Bindusagar Lake is replete with ancient temples majestically displaying the architectural patterns of the Kalingan era. The mighty Lingaraj Temple is one of the 'Golden Triangle of Temples', with Puri's celebrated Jagannath Temple and Konark's resplendent Sun Temple being the other two. The city is also home to some of the most veritable village and tribal handicrafts. 'Pattachithra' (paintings on processed fabrics) of Raghurajpur, Applique work of Pipli, 'Dokhra' (ancient metal casting technique) and cotton dress materials from inner villages, all present themselves as genuine attributes of this adorable city. Their distinct cuisine, featuring mildly spiced seafood dishes and dairy products, have inspired almost the entire eastern region of India. Accessible from all major cities of the country, Bhubaneswar will charm visitors with its easy going self.

+91 674 243 2177 (Tourist orissatourism.gov.in/ [email protected] Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar Information) n

Museum of Tribal Art and Artefacts "Tribal Work"

Odisha is a land of various tribal groups who have been living here for centuries. Museum of Tribal Art and Artefacts is dedicated to educate people about the tribal culture, their ways of living and more. The collection includes jewelry, costumes and weapons used by various tribes of the state. All in all, the museum provides an eye-opening experience for visitors.

Off CRP-DAV Road, Near CRP Square, Palika Nagar, Bhubaneswar Konark "Evolving Life!"

Once an active center of pilgrimage, culture and commerce, Konark is presented in tourist circles as a small town drifting just on the sheer archeological value of its UNESCO Heritage Site, The Sun Temple. But the calm waters of the Bay of Bengal, the picturesque East Coast Road, stunning architecture, candid eroticism and a forgotten religious prominence together create a gorgeous image of vacillating life here. Located at a distance of 70 kilometers (44 miles) from Bhubaneswar and 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Puri, Konark is always included in a trip to either of these bigger destinations. The splendid architecture of the Sun Temple, which marked the culmination of the unique Kalingan architectural pattern, is undoubtedly the biggest attraction here. Konark Dance Festival, still one of the major cultural celebrations in the country, is staged in the sensuous Natya Mandap located a little farther from the Temple. Though there is a considerable tourist influx to this town, it is contrasting to see the lack of animated commercial ploys in Konark unlike most other tourist towns of India. Surely this town is a wondrous site of cultural heritage and past glory that needs to be appreciated.

+91 6758 23 6821 (Tourist orissatourism.gov.in/ [email protected] Konark, Konark Information) n

Puri "The Land of Jagannath"

Puri, the land of Lord Jagannath is an important tourist destination in India. Being part of the four holy places (Char Dham) in India, this coastal town sees a large number of tourists everyday. Abundant natural beauty is another reason behind the love for Puri - this is also one of the few destinations where sunrise and sunset can be watched from the same location. The famous 'Rath Yathra' (Car Festival), where Lord Jagannath is carried in a procession around the city, experiences an overflow of pilgrims from all parts of the country. Popular attractions like Konark Sun Temple and Chilika Lake are also quite accessible from Puri. Covered in the cultural value and religious prominence, Puri continues to attract people from all over the world and is one of the most visited destinations in India.

+91 6752 22 2664 (Tourist Information) Puri, Puri

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