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Bhubaneswar is an ancient city lying in the eastern part of India, in the state of Orissa. Often referred to as the “City of Temples”, it houses around 600 priceless temples. The word Bhubaneswar means the 'God's World' which describes its rich architecture and cultural heritage. Earlier, it was the capital of ancient Kalinga and with development over centuries; the city has now become a hub for various trading and sacred affairs.
The layout of the modern city is the brainchild of the German architect, Otto Konigsberger in the year 1946. The modern city is a well balanced unification of its ancient glory and contemporary life style. In short, it is an ideal tourist destination which promises to deliver the best for every guest.
Before independence, Cuttack was the capital of Orissa and later in 1948, a year after India gained its independence, Bhubaneswar became the capital. Together, they are referred as the "twin cities" of Orissa.
History of Bhubaneswar
The name Bhubaneswar is derived from the Sanskrit word, Tribhuvaneswara, which denotes Lord Shiva. The history of the place roots back to the 1st century B.C. Bhubaneswar has witnessed the rule of the Afghans, Marathas and the British. With a 2000 year old history, Bhubaneswar has been regarded as a spiritual and religious place. The ancient temples and buildings dedicated to Lord Shiva reflect a work of harmony and peace.
Special attractions in and around Bhubaneswar
- Dhauli: This place has a rich connection with the state’s history. It is here where the famous Kalinga war took place transforming King Ashoka into a compassionate Buddha follower. A Buddhist peace pagoda known as Shantistupa has been established here and the place is surrounded by lush greenery around.
- Lingaraj temple: The temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva and houses a ShivLinga with a deity of 8 ft in diameter and raised 8 inches above the ground.
- Atri : This place is located at a distance of 42 km from Bhubaneswar has the famous hot sulphur water spring which is believed to cure skin diseases.
- Bindusagar: It is located to the north of Lingaraj temple and known as the “ocean drop”. As per local beliefs, it contains water from every river, lake and holy stream of India brought by Lord Shiva. Just like Atri, the holy water is famous for curing stomach diseases with best results during sunrise.
- Udaigiri khandagiri caves: Located at a distance of 8 km from the city, these are a group of 44 caves on two opposite hills.
- Chilka Lake: It is Asia's largest salt water lagoon and located to the south of Puri. The lake is an abundant source of aquatic flora and fauna. It is considered home to the Irrawaddy dolphins and Siberian cranes. If you traipse further into the jungles, you can witness white sand converging into blue water.
- Ekamra Haat: This unique market place is the right place if you are looking forward to collect unforgettable memoirs of the state. The aura includes ethnic handlooms and handicrafts from all over the country. Another feature is the open air amphitheatre where folk and tribal dances are held.
Best Time to visit Bhubaneswar
October to March are the most favorable months to visit Bhubaneswar
Location
State: Orissa
District: Khurda
Distance from nearest cities: The nearest cities to Bhubaneswar are Cuttack, located at a distance of 25 kilometers and Puri, located at a distance of 60 kilometers.
How to reach Bhubaneswar
Nearest airport: There is an airport located 4 kilometers from the city centre.
Nearest railway stations: Bhubaneswar has its own railway station which is well connected with other major cities of the country.
Directions by road from nearby cities: Bhubaneswar is well connected by road to nearby cities like Puri and Cuttack
Tourism Department
Department of Tourism
Museum Campus
Bhubaneswar
Ph: 91-674-2432177
Email:
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Climatic Conditions
Bhubaneswar experiences a hot climate with high temperatures in the summers and pleasant weather in the winters.
Clothing
Light cotton clothes in summers and light woolens in winters are recommended.
Tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar
- Temples: The beautiful and ancient temples reflecting the Jain, Buddha and Hindu styles of architecture are a must see.
- Museums: The museums are a great attraction and house an excellent collection of musical instruments, copper plates, anthropological specimens, lithic and Bronze Age tools, stone inscriptions, paintings, palm leaf manuscripts and sculptures. Apart from these you will also find brass castings and folk paintings in the handicraft museum.
- Nandankanan Zoological Park: This Park is located around 25 kilometers from Bhubaneswar and houses white tigers, gharial crocodiles and black panthers. The place is a must see for nature and animal lovers. You can find 81 bird species, 67 mammal types and 18 varieties of reptiles in this park.
This article was contributed by Abhay Tandon
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