What are the most popular attractions in Bhubaneswar?

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha and known as the “Temple City of India’, is home to countless temples and monuments. As such, this incredible city has long been a popular destination for tourists from across the world. Located on the majestic banks of the Kuakhai River and surrounded by lush greenery, Bhubaneswar offers visitors an array of historical and spiritual attractions that will leave them breathless.From ancient temples to majestic monuments, Bhubaneswar is full of wonders for those who come to explore. Here, we will introduce you to some of the most popular attractions in Bhubaneswar that you simply cannot miss.

1. Lingaraj Temple

The Lingaraj Temple is one of the oldest and most impressive Hindu temples in India, and it is undoubtedly the star attraction of Bhubaneswar. The temple was built in the 11th century by the rulers of the Ganga dynasty and stands 180 feet tall. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is one of the few temples around that allows non-Hindus to enter and admire the stunning architecture. Its grand towers and intricately carved sculptures represent various eras, making it a treat for the eyes.

2. Rajarani Temple

The Rajarani Temple is widely known as the “Jewel of Bhubaneswar” due to its breathtaking architecture and sculptures. The temple is over 1000 years old and was built in honor of Lord Shiva by the Eastern Ganga Dynasty. It is one of the oldest temples in India, attracting tourists from all over the world. The temple is adorned with many exquisite stone carvings, intricate sculptures, and murals depicting scenes from Shaivite legends. Its beauty is simply unmatched, and it is a must-visit destination when in Bhubaneswar.

3. Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves

The Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves are two distinct sets of rock-cut caves located around 12 km from Bhubaneswar. These caves date back to the 2nd century BC and were built by King Kharavela, who wanted to create a retreat for Jain monks. Many of these caves contain stunning carvings and sculptures, depicting scenes from Jain mythology, with some of them also containing inscriptions from Buddhist and Hindu scriptures. These caves offer visitors a glimpse into Indian history and they are definitely worth a visit.

4. Mukteswar Temple

The Mukteswar Temple is one of the most sacred temples in Bhubaneswar. It was built in the 10th century and stands 35-feet high, with its intricate carvings representing Prasada architecture. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is also known as “the Gem of Orissan Architecture” due to its beauty and intricately carved sculptures. The temple also contains an image house that houses statues depicting Jain, Hindu and Buddhist gods, which makes it an interesting spot to visit for any history enthusiast.

5. Dhauli Giri

The Dhauli Giri is a peaceful hill located 8 km from Bhubaneswar, where it is believed that Ashoka killed thousands of people during the historic Kalinga War in 261 BCE. In recent times, the hill has been transformed into a tranquil buddhist enclave with a large peace pagoda at its summit that houses many beautiful sculptures. Dhauli Giri also contains several ancient monasteries, universities, and residential structures where monks reside peacefully throughout the year. Most notably, the hill contains an engraved edict of Ashoka that gives insight into India’s rich past.

6. Nandan Kanan Zoo & Botanical Garden

Nandan Kanan Zoo & Botanical Garden are located just 9 km away from Bhubaneswar and they are surely one of the city’s most unique attractions. Here you will find a vast array of exotic animals, ranging from royal Bengal tigers to elephants and even endangered species such as the black buck. The garden also houses over 20 different species of birds, along with over 500 different species of plants and trees, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts looking for some peace and relaxation. It is surely worth a visit for those holidaying in Bhubaneswar.

7. Indravalli Cave

The Indravalli Cave is located on the banks of the Kuakhai river around 8 km from Bhubaneswar and it is believed to be as old as 2000 years. These Buddhist caves were built during Mauryan rule in India, and they contain stunning sculptures depicting Buddha and designs related to Buddhism throughout its walls. The caves are also famous for its age-old inscriptions that depict scenes from Buddhist scripture, making it a fascinating spot for anyone interested in ancient history.

8. Odisha State Museum

The Odisha State Museum offers visitors an insight into Odisha’s rich culture and history. Founded in 1932, this museum houses a large collection of artifacts and artwork related to Odisha’s culture and heritage. Its vast collection includes manuscripts, coins, sculptures, paintings, armaments, musical instruments and artifacts dating back to prehistoric times. If you are looking for a unique way to learn more about this state’s history, then make sure you include a visit here on your visit to Bhubaneswar. So there you have it – some of the most popular attractions in Bhubaneswar that you definitely can’t miss out on! Whether you’re looking for spiritual tranquility or just want to explore something new, you’ll surely find something here that appeals to you! Don’t forget to do some research ahead of time about government regulations for visiting these places as well – many of them require special permission – so that you can enjoy your visit without any hassles or unexpected interruptions! As always be sure to travel responsibly – by visiting official websites regarding Bhubaneswar attractions like Orissa Tourism’s Bhubaneswar attractions page, which lists all of their approved attractions along with their safety guidelines, opening times and entrance fee details – to ensure that your visit is memorable for all the right reasons!