5 things not to miss in Bhubaneshwar

Posted on October 15, 2019 by Ghoomophiro

Bhubaneshwar (literally ‘king of land’) is the capital of Odisha and one of the major tourist spots of the country. With Puri and Konark, it forms Swarna Tribhuja (the golden triangle) – which is one of the biggest tourist attractions of the East. The attractions of the other two edges of this triangle – Puri, and Konark can be summed up in two words – temples and beaches but Bhubaneshwar is so much more.

There is so much to do in this city but here are the five things that we ghoomophirosisters, personally have enjoyed doing a lot

1. Visiting Temples

The place where Bhubaneshwar is now was once called Ekamra Kshetra meaning temple city. In fact, Bhubaneshwar continues to be called the temple city. There are over a thousand temples in the city and it is next to impossible to visit them all but some of the best ones definitely deserve attention.

The Lingaraj temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is the most popular temple in the city. Other famous temples are Rajarani Temple Muktesvara Temple, Ananta Vasudeva Temple etc.

Rajarani temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has some of his amazing images doing various dance mudras. It was once called Indreshwara and drives its present name from the rock with which it is built ‘Rajarani’. Locally though it is known as ‘love temple’ because of several erotic cavings made on the walls.

Muktesvara temple is second only to Lingaraja temple in terms of architectural beauty and is called ‘gem of Odisha architecture’.

Ananta Vasudeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Krishna, Balarama and Subhadra are worshipped in this temple built in the thirteenth century. Balarama stands under a seven hooded serpent, the image of Subhadra shows her holds Jewels pot and lotus in her hands while keeping her left foot over another jewel pot. The image of Krishna holds a mace, chakra, lotus and a conch

One of the chief attractions of temples is the food on offer. Abadha of Lingaraj Temple and Ananta Vasudeva Temple serve for their devotees is considered a vegetarian culinary delight. Other vegetarian dishes include Dalma (made of lentils and vegetables boiled together and then fried with other spices) and Santula (lightly spiced steamed vegetables).

2. Tribal Research Institute Museum

Tribal Research Institute Museum, also known as ‘Museum of Man’ and get a chance to observe and study tribal art and artifacts, displayed in its five different parts You will find Personal Adornments in first Hall, Belongings, Arts, Paintings & Photographs in second Hall, Hunting & Fishing Implements & Weapons of Offence and Defense in the third hall, Household Objects and Agricultural Implements in the fourth hall and Dance, Musical Instruments and Dhokra Items in the fifth hall.

A visit to this museum gives you a chance to observe closely the culture of the tribal population which, despite so much focus on our own heritage, has not to get the attention it so well deserves.

3. Dhauli hills

Visiting Dhauli Giri makes you feel that you have been kidnapped in the TARDIS and dropped in ancient India The site is of great historical importance, as it was the place where the famous Kalinga was taken place. The war that melted the heart of great King Ashoka, and made him convert to Buddhism. The Shanti Stupa here is mesmerizing. Among other attraction of this place are other Ashoka edicts Budha statue, Shiva temple, and white peace pagoda. Many of these are supposed to have been built at the end of war ushering an age of prosperity and peace for India.

4. Local Cuisine

We have already mentioned the food served at temples but now for foodies who want something non-vegetarian. A fish curry known as Machha Jhola is a must if you visit the city. You can combine it with yummy items like Rasagola, Rasabali, Chhena Jhilli, Chhena Gaja and Chhena Poda.

Gupchup which is a deep-fried crêpe, stuffed with a mix of mashed potatoes and boiled yellow peas, and afterward, dipped in tamarind-infused water is a locale special. Other street food items include more widely known food items of the country like Cuttack-chaat, Dahi Bara, Aloo dum (a deep-fried lentil dumpling marinated into the yogurt-infused water, and served along with potato curry) and Bara-Gauguin

Dahi-Pakhal (rice soaked in water with yogurt and seasonings)  is considered as a body coolant, accompanied by Badi Chura or saga are consumed during months of April–June. If you visit Bhubaneshwar and are unable to bear the heat, you now know what to eat.

And a visit to Bhubaneshwar is incomplete if you haven’t tasted the huge variety of sweets it has to offer.

5.Nandankanan Zoological Park

India’s first zoo to join  World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Nandankanan ( literally ‘garden of paradise’ ) zoo and botanical garden is home to several rare and endangered species like Asiatic lions, Indian crocodilians, big rock Pythons, White tigers etc. White Tigers are always majestic and also scary! There is an aquarium too and a reptile park here too. One of the most fun things was that the reptile park was guarded by a Tyrannosaurus Rex!

And it is time for your bonus –

Biju Patnaik Park

Biju Patnaik Park is named after a chief minister of Odisha.  The park has a lake – you can a walk around or boating in it. The best attraction of the park though is the refreshing way in which water of the fountain dances to music. Don’t miss the splendid evening it has to offer.

Conclusion

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Bhubaneshwar has far, far more to offer. I have just run out of my fingers. Among the other tourist spots are included Odisha State Museum,  Pathani Samanta Planetarium, Regional Museum of Natural History, Regional Science Center and State Handicrafts Museum. Day girl and Khandagiri Caves etc. Also, make sure to go shopping in urban half of Bhubaneshwar to get some souvenirs. Definitely consider buying Patthachitra paintings, palm leaves carvings and other such handicrafts to be able to take something of the city with you. If you are into Odishan movies, Ollywood might also interest you. Odissi dance is generally accompanied by Odissi music. Srjan, the famous Odissi dance academy founded by Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, the legendary Odissi dancer is found here. The Rabindra Mandap in central Bhubaneswar might also interest you, do check if it might be hosting some cultural program, dance, theatre or private function which it frequently does. .There is so much you can do – why haven’t you already started backpacking?