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Bhubaneswar!

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Population

0.84 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Odisha map East India 🕉️ Spiritual Bhubaneswar Odisha Temples East India Travel Guide

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is often called the 'Temple City' for its numerous ancient temples. It's a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modern urban development, also emerging as an IT hub.

Bhubaneswar offers a deep dive into Kalinga architecture and Odissi dance. However, be prepared for intense heat during the summer and potential touts near major temples. The city's infrastructure is still developing, so expect some traffic congestion.

Allocate at least two to three days to explore the major temples and historical sites. Getting around is relatively easy with auto-rickshaws and taxis, but negotiate fares beforehand. The airport is conveniently close to the city center.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

20-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for sightseeing. The days are sunny, and the evenings are cool.

Why Visit:

This is the best time to explore temples and outdoor attractions comfortably. The weather is perfect for cultural events and festivals. Hotel prices are higher, but the experience is worth it.

Tip: Expect larger crowds at major attractions, especially during festivals. Book accommodations and transportation in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

28-35 degrees C

Monsoon season with moderate to heavy rainfall. Humidity is high, but the landscape turns lush green.

Why Visit:

The monsoon brings relief from the summer heat and fewer tourists. The city looks refreshed, and you can find better deals on hotels. However, outdoor activities might be limited due to rain.

Tip: Some attractions may have reduced hours or be temporarily closed. Be prepared for occasional flooding in certain areas.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

Extremely hot and humid weather. Heatwaves are common.

Why Avoid:

It is best to avoid Bhubaneswar during these months due to the scorching heat. Sightseeing can be very uncomfortable, and you risk heatstroke.

Note: If you must visit, stay hydrated and avoid being outdoors during peak hours. Many locals avoid going out during the day.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Lingaraj Temple

⏱ 2-3 hours Free (Non-Hindus not allowed inside)

The Lingaraj Temple is the largest and most prominent temple in Bhubaneswar, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its towering spire and intricate carvings showca...

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Raja Rani Temple

⏱ 1 hour ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

The Raja Rani Temple is known for its exquisite carvings of women and couples, showcasing the sensuous side of Kalinga art. The temple's name is deriv...

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Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹25 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

These ancient rock-cut caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, were Jain monastic dwellings. Udayagiri has more elaborate carvings, while Khandagir...

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Nandankanan Zoological Park

⏱ 4-5 hours ₹50 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Nandankanan is a large zoo, botanical garden, and natural sanctuary. It's famous for its white tiger population and diverse collection of animals....

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Odisha State Museum

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

The Odisha State Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts related to the history, art, and culture of Odisha. Exhibits include sculptures, c...

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ISKCON Temple Bhubaneswar

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

The ISKCON Temple in Bhubaneswar is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It's a peaceful place for prayer and meditation....

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Mukteswar Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

The Mukteswar Temple is a 10th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its intricate carvings and the beautiful torana (arch) at...

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Things To Do

attractions

Odissi Dance Class

⏱ 2 hours 💰 ₹500-800 per person

Learn the basics of Odissi, a classical Indian dance form originating from Odisha. A trained instructor will guide you t...

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attractions

Tribal Art Workshop

⏱ 3 hours 💰 ₹700-1000 per person

Participate in a hands-on workshop and learn about tribal art forms from Odisha. An expert artisan will teach you the te...

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attractions

Cooking Class: Odia Cuisine

⏱ 3 hours 💰 ₹800-1200 per person

Learn to prepare traditional Odia dishes from a local chef. You'll learn about the unique spices and ingredients used in...

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attractions

Cycling Tour of Old Bhubaneswar

⏱ 4 hours 💰 ₹400-600 per person

Explore the ancient temples and historical sites of Old Bhubaneswar on a guided cycling tour. Discover hidden gems and l...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Attend the Raja Festival

Varies (3 days) | Free

Raja is a three-day festival celebrating womanhood and menstruation. It's a time of feasting, games,...

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celebration

Visit a Tribal Village (Day Trip)

8-10 hours | ₹1500-2500

Take a day trip to a nearby tribal village to experience the traditional lifestyle and culture of Od...

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celebration

Watch an Odissi Dance Performance

1-2 hours | ₹300-800

Witness the graceful and mesmerizing movements of Odissi, a classical Indian dance form originating ...

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celebration

Attend a Pattachitra Painting Workshop

3-4 hours | ₹800-1200

Learn the art of Pattachitra, a traditional cloth-based scroll painting from Odisha. A skilled artis...

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celebration

Explore the Ekamra Haat Handicrafts Market

2-3 hours | Free (cost of purchases varies)

Browse through a wide variety of handicrafts and handloom products from all over Odisha. This open-a...

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celebration

Visit the Ananta Vasudeva Temple

1-2 hours | Free

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, Balarama, and Subhadra, this temple is known for its beautiful architectu...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Dalma
Dalma

A lentil and vegetable stew, a staple of Odia cuisine (try at Dalma Restaurant)

Pakhala Bhata
Pakhala Bhata

Fermented rice dish, especially refreshing in summer

Chhena Poda
Chhena Poda

Baked cheese dessert, a must-try Odia sweet

Seafood
Seafood

Fresh seafood preparations, especially prawns and fish

Rasagola
Rasagola

The Odia version of the popular Indian sweet

Where to Eat

Dalma Restaurant

Dalma Restaurant

₹₹

Odia

📍 Kharabela Nagar

Authentic Odia cuisine in a traditional setting. A popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

DalmaThalis

₹500-700 for two

Wildgrass

Wildgrass

₹₹₹

Multi-cuisine

📍 Janpath

Upscale restaurant with a diverse menu and elegant ambiance. Good for a special occasion.

ContinentalIndian

₹800-1200 for two

Street Food Spots

Station Square

Station Square

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be mindful of hygiene. Try the local snacks from reputable vendors.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Bhubaneswar

More restaurants & dishes from Bhubaneswar

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Chandrasekharpur

A modern residential area with good connectivity and a range of hotels and restaurants. Suitable for business travelers and families.

Best For: Business travelers, families

Kharabela Nagar

A central location with easy access to major attractions and shopping areas. Ideal for tourists who want to explore the city.

Best For: Tourists

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Pushpak

📍 Near Railway Station

Basic but clean rooms, convenient location for transport. Good for a short stay.

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Grand Central

📍 City Center

Decent budget option with comfortable rooms and essential amenities. Close to restaurants and shops.

₹900-1300/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2000-3000/night

The Presidency

📍 Janpath

Well-maintained hotel with spacious rooms and good service. Offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities.

₹2000-3000/night

Hotel Kalinga Ashok

📍 Near Airport

A government-run hotel with reliable service and comfortable rooms. Convenient for travelers arriving or departing by air.

₹2500-3500/night

Luxury

₹4500+/night

Mayfair Convention

📍 Jayadev Vihar

Elegant hotel with luxurious rooms, multiple dining options, and a spa. Offers a premium experience with excellent service.

₹4500+/night

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bhubaneswar

📍 Near Nandankanan Zoo

Upscale hotel with sophisticated rooms, fine dining restaurants, and a swimming pool. Ideal for a relaxing and luxurious stay.

₹5000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), 3km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS)

Main railway station with trains from all major cities, centrally located.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 24 hours (₹800-3000)
  • From Mumbai: 30 hours (₹900-3500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Baramunda Bus Stand
  • Cuttack Road Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Kolkata: 10 hours (₹700-1200)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-200

Best for: Short distances, negotiating fares

Negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Metered autos are rare.

directions

Taxi/Uber/Ola

💰 ₹200-500

Best for: Comfort, longer distances

Use ride-sharing apps for fixed fares. Taxis are readily available.

directions

Local Bus

💰 ₹10-30

Best for: Budget travelers, exploring different areas

Buses can be crowded. Check the route and destination beforehand.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Light cotton clothing is best, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: Widely available

Cash vs Card: Cash is useful for small transactions and street food. Cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Expected in markets and for auto-rickshaws

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic.

Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration. Carry ORS (oral rehydration solution) and stay hydrated.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. Requires passport and visa.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and cafes

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Odia phrases is helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹20-50

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