bigtravelbuzzBhubaneswar is the capital city of the Indian state of Odisha. Here are some useful information and travel tips:
- Bhubaneswar is known as the “Temple City of India” due to its many ancient temples, including the famous Lingaraj Temple.
- The best time to visit Bhubaneswar is between October and February when the weather is pleasant.
- The city is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar has regular flights to major Indian cities.
- Bhubaneswar has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for travelers.
- Some of the popular tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar are the Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswara Temple, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Dhauli Hill, and Nandankanan Zoological Park.
- Bhubaneswar is famous for its Odissi dance, which is a classical dance form of Odisha. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch an Odissi dance performance while in the city.
- The local cuisine of Bhubaneswar is a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including the famous Chhena Poda, which is a sweet made from cottage cheese.
- Bhubaneswar is a safe city for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables safe.
- Respect the local customs and traditions while visiting Bhubaneswar and other parts of Odisha.
- Bhubaneswar is also a hub for handloom and handicrafts, so don’t miss the opportunity to shop for some unique souvenirs to take back home.
Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, has many places to visit, including:
- Lingaraj Temple: A popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the 11th century.
- Mukteswara Temple: A beautiful 10th-century temple known for its intricate carvings and unique architecture.
- Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: Ancient Jain rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BC.
- Dhauli Hill: A historical site known for its rock edicts, where Emperor Ashoka is said to have renounced violence and embraced Buddhism.
- Nandankanan Zoological Park: A popular zoo and botanical garden known for its white tigers, lions, and other rare animals.
- Rajarani Temple: A unique temple known for its beautiful architecture and carvings, built in the 11th century.
- Odisha State Museum: A museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Odisha, including art, sculpture, and handicrafts.
- Ansupa Lake: A beautiful lake surrounded by lush green hills, perfect for a relaxing day out.
- Ekamra Kanan Botanical Garden: A peaceful garden with beautiful plants and trees, ideal for a leisurely walk.
- Khandagiri and Udayagiri Jain Caves: Ancient rock-cut caves with beautiful sculptures and carvings, dating back to the 1st century BC.
These are some of the top places to visit in Bhubaneswar, but there are many more, including some lesser-known temples and historical sites.
Best Time To Visit Bhubaneswar
The best time to visit Bhubaneswar is from October to February, during the winter season. The weather during this time is pleasant, with cool temperatures and low humidity levels, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The average temperature during this time ranges from 15°C to 25°C, with occasional dips in temperature during the nights. The city also experiences mild showers during this time, which add to the charm of the place.
During the winter season, you can explore the ancient temples, visit the parks and gardens, and enjoy the local cuisine without any discomfort due to the weather. However, it’s important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds at popular tourist spots.
If you’re looking for a quieter time to visit, the monsoon season from June to September is also a good time to visit Bhubaneswar. The city looks lush and green during this time, and the occasional downpour can add to the beauty of the place. However, be prepared for higher humidity levels and occasional disruptions due to heavy rain.
Avoid visiting Bhubaneswar during the summer season from March to May, as the temperatures can go up to 40°C or higher, making it uncomfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, offers a wide range of activities to do and places to visit. Here are some of the top things to do in Bhubaneswar:
- Visit the ancient temples: Bhubaneswar is known as the “Temple City of India” and has many ancient temples, including the famous Lingaraj Temple and Mukteswara Temple.
- Explore the Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves: These ancient rock-cut caves date back to the 2nd century BC and offer stunning views of the city.
- Visit the Odisha State Museum: This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Odisha, including art, sculpture, and handicrafts.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Bhubaneswar is famous for its unique cuisine, including the famous Chhena Poda, which is a sweet made from cottage cheese.
- Attend an Odissi dance performance: Odissi is a classical dance form of Odisha, and watching a live performance is a must-do activity while in Bhubaneswar.
- Go on a wildlife safari: Nandankanan Zoological Park is a popular zoo and botanical garden known for its white tigers, lions, and other rare animals.
- Take a walk in Ekamra Kanan Botanical Garden: This peaceful garden has beautiful plants and trees, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk.
- Go on a shopping spree: Bhubaneswar is also known for its handloom and handicrafts, so make sure to shop for some unique souvenirs to take back home.
- Visit the Dhauli Hill: This historical site is known for its rock edicts, where Emperor Ashoka is said to have renounced violence and embraced Buddhism.
These are some of the top things to do in Bhubaneswar, but there are many more places to visit and activities to enjoy in this beautiful city.
How to Get Around in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, has several modes of transportation available to get around the city. Here are some of the common ways to get around in Bhubaneswar:
- Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular and affordable mode of transportation in Bhubaneswar. They are easily available throughout the city and can be hired for short distances.
- City buses: The city has a well-connected network of city buses that are operated by the state transport corporation. They are an economical way to get around the city and cover most of the major areas.
- Taxis: Taxis are available in Bhubaneswar but are more expensive than auto-rickshaws and city buses. They can be hired for local sightseeing or for outstation trips.
- Ola/Uber: Ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber are also available in Bhubaneswar. They are a convenient and safe way to get around the city.
- Bicycle rentals: Some places in Bhubaneswar offer bicycle rentals, which is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city at your own pace.
- Walking: Bhubaneswar is a pedestrian-friendly city, and some areas like the Old Town are best explored on foot. Walking is also a good way to experience the local culture and street food.
These are some of the common ways to get around in Bhubaneswar. However, it’s important to note that traffic can be congested during peak hours, so plan your travel accordingly.
Where to eat in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, has a rich culinary culture and offers a variety of restaurants and street food stalls to satisfy your taste buds. Here are some of the best places to eat in Bhubaneswar:
- Dalma: This popular restaurant is known for its authentic Odia cuisine, including the famous Dalma, which is a lentil and vegetable stew.
- Raja-Rani-Annapurna: This restaurant serves delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis, which are a must-try while in Bhubaneswar.
- The Zaika: This restaurant serves North Indian and Chinese cuisine and is known for its delicious biryanis and kebabs.
- The HHI Bhubaneswar: This upscale hotel has several restaurants, including The Square, which offers a buffet spread of Indian and international cuisine.
- Lingaraj Lassi: This famous street food stall serves refreshing lassis and other drinks, along with a variety of chaats and snacks.
- Biryani Box: This restaurant serves mouth-watering biryanis, kebabs, and rolls, and is a must-visit for biryani lovers.
- Hotel Kaveri: This restaurant is known for its South Indian cuisine, including the famous dosas and idlis.
- Bhubaneswar Street Food: Bhubaneswar is also famous for its street food, including the famous Bara Ghuguni, Chhena Gaja, and various types of chaats and snacks.
These are some of the best places to eat in Bhubaneswar, but there are many more restaurants and street food stalls to explore in this food paradise.
Famous street stalls in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar is known for its delicious and diverse street food. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Bhubaneswar that you must try:
- Bara Ghuguni: This is a popular street food in Bhubaneswar and is made of fried lentil cakes (bara) served with yellow peas curry (ghuguni), garnished with onions, coriander, and lemon.
- Chhena Gaja: This is a traditional sweet from Odisha and is made of cottage cheese, semolina, and sugar syrup. It’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
- Dahibara Aloodum: This is a popular street food snack in Bhubaneswar and is made of lentil dumplings (dahibara) served with spicy potato curry (aloodum) and yogurt, garnished with onions, coriander, and sev.
- Gupchup/Phuchka/Pani Puri: This popular street food snack is known by different names in different parts of India. It is made of crispy puffed shells filled with spicy potato or chickpea curry, tamarind chutney, and flavored water.
- Chatpata Snacks: Bhubaneswar has several street stalls that offer a variety of chatpata snacks, including aloo chop, samosa, cutlet, and pakoda, served with a variety of chutneys and dips.
- Chhena Jhili: This is a sweet dish made of fried cottage cheese dipped in sugar syrup and is a popular dessert in Bhubaneswar.
These are just some of the famous street stalls in Bhubaneswar that offer delicious and affordable street food. Make sure to try them during your visit to the city.
Where to stay in Bhubaneswar
Luxury accommodation
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, has several luxurious accommodations to choose from. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Bhubaneswar:
- Mayfair Lagoon: This is a luxurious resort located in the heart of the city, surrounded by lush greenery and water bodies. It offers premium accommodation, a world-class spa, and several dining options.
- Trident Bhubaneswar: This 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and multiple dining options, including an award-winning restaurant.
- The Crown: This luxury hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, and several dining options, including an award-winning restaurant.
- Hotel Hindusthan International: This upscale hotel offers luxurious accommodation, a spa, and several dining options, including an all-day dining restaurant and a rooftop lounge.
- Fortune Park Sishmo: This 4-star hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, and several dining options, including a fine-dining restaurant and a coffee shop.
These are some of the best luxury hotels in Bhubaneswar, but there are many more options available, depending on your preferences and budget.
Where to stay in Bhubaneswar
Budget accommodation
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, has several budget accommodation options available. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Bhubaneswar:
- Hotel Grand Central: This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. It’s located in the city center, making it easy to explore the city’s attractions.
- Hotel Pushpak: This budget hotel offers affordable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. It’s located near the airport and is ideal for travelers on a budget.
- Hotel Kalinga Ashok: This budget hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
- OYO Rooms: OYO Rooms has several budget hotels located across Bhubaneswar that offer comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and other basic amenities.
- Ginger Hotel: This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. It’s located near the railway station and is ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
These are just some of the budget accommodation options in Bhubaneswar. There are many more options available, depending on your budget and preferences.