Odisha
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Odisha.
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2 Days in Bhubaneswar for Solo Trip
Bhubaneswar is a perfect blend of ancient temples and modern vibes, making it great for solo travelers. I love how peaceful the old temples are in the morning, and how lively the local markets get by evening. The city has a relaxed pace, so you can take your time exploring without feeling rushed.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Bhubaneswar
Kick off your Bhubaneswar trip with its most iconic temples, a glimpse into Odisha's rich history, and some delicious local flavors.
Activities
Lingaraj Temple & Old Town Walk
Start your day at the stunning Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar's most famous landmark. This 11th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture. Wander around the temple complex, soak in the spiritual vibe, and admire the intricate carvings. Afterward, take a short walk through the surrounding old town area to see smaller temples and local life.
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
- Non-Hindus can't enter the main sanctum but can view from outside
Odisha State Museum
Head to this excellent museum to understand Odisha's art, history, and culture. The collection includes ancient sculptures, palm leaf manuscripts, tribal artifacts, and a fascinating section on Odisha's maritime history. The museum is well-organized and gives great context before visiting other sites in the state.
- Don't miss the rare Buddhist artifacts section
- Photography requires extra fee
Ekamra Haat Shopping & Lunch
Wrap up your day at this government-run handicrafts market where you can find authentic Odisha handicrafts - from Pattachitra paintings to silver filigree work and handloom textiles. There are food stalls serving authentic Odia cuisine - perfect for lunch. Try their thali for a complete taste of local flavors.
- Bargain politely for handicrafts
- Try the chenna poda (burnt cheesecake) for dessert
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Bhubaneswar
A mix of history, nature, and local flavors, exploring Bhubaneswar's remaining highlights and hidden corners.
Activities
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
Start your day with a visit to these ancient Jain rock-cut caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The twin hills offer a fascinating glimpse into Odisha's rich history, with intricate carvings and peaceful surroundings. Udayagiri has 18 caves while Khandagiri has 15 - don't miss the famous Hathi Gumpha (Elephant Cave) with its historic inscriptions.
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the steps
- Hire a guide (₹200-300) to understand the historical significance
Dhauli Shanti Stupa
A serene white peace pagoda built by the Japanese on the site where Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism after the bloody Kalinga War. The hilltop location offers panoramic views of the Daya River and surrounding countryside. The nearby rock edicts of Ashoka add to the historical significance.
- Combine with lunch at nearby local eateries
- Visit the adjacent Shiva temple for more cultural context
Evening at Nandankanan Zoological Park
End your day at this unique zoo and botanical garden, famous for its white tigers and successful breeding programs. The zoo's natural forest setting makes it different from typical urban zoos. The 134-acre park includes a botanical garden, lake, and even a ropeway for aerial views.
- Visit the reptile house and white tiger enclosure
- Avoid weekends when it gets crowded