Bhubaneswar - The Temple City of Eastern India

The ancient city of Bhubaneswar is also known as the Temple City of Eastern India. The word Bhubaneswar in its literal sense means the 'God's World' which showcases the walk down centuries of temple architecture. With 600 temples in its treasure, the city is probably the only city in the world that presents a veritable over-view of the stages of development of Hindu religious architecture. Today these temples are a gentle reminder of the gracious past and the rich heritage of India. During the ancient times the regular dances were performed by the 'Devadasis' or divine temple dancers girls, the rituals and the recital of religious song were all central part of temple culture.

ATTRACTIONS - DEVOTION THROUGH STONES
Main attractions of Bhubaneswar are mostly temples and most of them were built before 10th century. Apart from Parashurameshwara Temple, Vaital Deul and Mukteshwar Temple, there are many more important temples in Bhubaneswar. Also visit Dhauli, which is one of the major Buddhist center in India. It is situated at a distance of just 8 km.

Parashurameshwara Temple: Parashurameshwara Temple is one of the most well preserved temples in Orissa. Built in 7 century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a cluster of 20 other smaller temples. Though the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, but you will find images of Lord Vishnu, Goddesses, Lord Yama and Lord Surya. The temple is quite extensively carved and is a perfect example of ancient temple architecture.

Vaital Deul: If you have been to few temples in Orissa, then Vaital Deul will surprise you as much as it will mesmerize you. The style of its architecture is absolutely different from what you would have seen till now. The temple is dedicated to Chamunda (incarnation of Goddess Kali). The temple build in 8th century is more based on Khakhara Order rather than Kalinga style. Khakhara Order is a sub division of Kalinga School. The tower (deul) of the temple is rectangular in shape and has the more common deul on all four sides. The architecture seems a lot more complicated and stunning.

Mukteshwar Temple: It is one of the most beautiful temples in Orissa. Build in 10th century; the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its architecture is more in Kalinga Temple style. The outer walls show figures of ascetics in various positions of meditations. You will be amazed to see carvings related to Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism all together. Often referred to as 'gem of Orissa', temple's main attraction is the magnificent torana-the decorated arch gateway.

Dhauli: Situated at a distance of 8 Km from Bhubaneswar is Dhauli Hills which was witness to one of the most significant wars in Indian History, the Kalinga War. The war saw the transformation of a monstrous king into one of the most revered figures of mercy and compassion. King Ashoka mastered the principles of Buddhism and spread it to places far and wide. The place is famous for the Buddhist Peace Pagoda which was built here in the seventies by Japan Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha. It is popularly known as Shanti Stupa.

EXCURSIONS FROM BHUBANESWAR
Bhubaneswar makes some of the most desired tourist excursions.

Dhauligiri: Dhauligiri has an attraction of Ashokan edicts. These edicts carved on the rock dates back to 2nd century BC. It is here that Ashoka, the great, was transformed into Ashoka, and became the follower of Lord Buddha. Dhauli has gained prominence due to the establishment of Shanti Stupa, built in the early seventies by the Japan Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha. A Much Visited Destination.

Udaygiri & Khandagiri Caves: Udaygiri & Khandagiri is famous for its cave structures. There are series of cave temples belonging to the Hindu and Jain faiths. A guide is a must if interested in visiting the site as he could give you the most bona fide information regarding the site.

Sisupalgarh: Sisupalgarh holds the charm of some ancient ruins of third or fourth century BC. One can have a fair ideal of a well developed ancient city by visiting the site and establish the fact that the Bhubaneswarn civilization has very ancient roots.

Nandan Kanan Zoo: If wildlife enthusiast then Nandan Kanan Zoo makes the ideal destination. The zoo is famous for viewing the Royal Bengal Tiger and white tigers.

Chandipur: It is a seaside resort with one of the finest beaches in Bhubaneswar. Go for an exclusive applique work at Pipli -29 km, a small village famous for its traditional art form originally made for the temple Gods.

Atri Springs: Atri Springs has sulfur springs and is also famous for its Hatakeshwara Temple. A bath in the spring water is reputed to cure skin diseases apart from being a pleasant experience.

Konark Sun Temple: The Konark Sun Temple is a marvelous specimen of 13th century, temple architecture. The beauty lies in its structure as it is constructed in a chariot form. The ruins have sculptures detailing every aspect of human life. The city is also embellished with some of the most beautiful beaches of East India.

Nandankanan: Nestling in the Chandaka forest, Nandankanan is a Wildlife Reserve where one can encounter these wilds in their natural habitat. A lake flowing through the reserve adds to the charm of great wild. Tigers, Lions, Clouded Leopards, Black Panthers, Gharials, Rosy Pelican, Grey Pelican, Indian Python, King Cobra, etc. are among the main attractions. The exotic Botanical Garden on the other side of the zoo preserves varieties of indigenous plants. Regular bus services are available to reach the place.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS
On the day of Ashokashtami in the month of March, the image of Lingaraja (Lord Shiva) and other deities are taken in a procession from Lingaraja Temple to the Rameshwara Temple. Hundreds of devotees participate in pulling the chariot that carries the deities. The deities remain in the Rameshwara Temple for four days.

At the end of January comes Adivasi Mela, a fair that displays the art, artifacts, tradition, culture, and music of the tribal folks of Orissa.

Other festivals of importance are Durga Puja, Janmashtami, and Kali Puja.

HOW TO GET THERE
By Air: Indian Airlines and many private airlines fly on regular basis to Bhubaneswar. Bhubaneswar Airport is 3 km from the city centre and almost all the major cities are connected from here.

By Rail: Bhubaneswar also have good railway network connecting it to major cities of India like Kolkatta, Puri, Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Tirupati.

By Road: The national highway no.5 touches this capital city. The main bus stand is at Barmunda, 8 km from the city centre. There are regular interstate bus services from the nearby towns and cities.

Local Transport: Bhubaneswar State Transport operates regular buses between Bhubaneswar and Berhampur, Chilika, Konark, Puri, and other places. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and local bus services are available. Autos are also a main source of transport. Tourist taxis and deluxe buses are available on rent from Transport Manager. The old bus stand in Unit II (off Rajpath) is mainly used for local services.