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3 Days in Bhubaneswar for a Flavorful Food Trip
Bhubaneswar is a hidden gem for food lovers, with its rich Odia cuisine that blends sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors in the most delightful ways. I've spent years exploring the city's street food stalls, local eateries, and sweet shops, and this itinerary covers the best bites you shouldn't miss. From crispy dahibara to melt-in-your-mouth chhena poda, get ready for a delicious adventure.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Bhubaneswar
Kick off your Bhubaneswar food and culture tour with the city's most iconic temples, a taste of Odisha's famous street food, and a deep dive into local flavors at a traditional eatery.
Activities
Morning at Lingaraj Temple
Start your day with a visit to the 11th-century Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar's most famous landmark. The towering spire and intricate carvings are breathtaking. Arrive early to avoid crowds and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Don't miss the temple's sacred pond, Bindusagar.
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
- Leave shoes at designated stalls (₹10 fee)
Breakfast at Truptee Restaurant
Just a short rickshaw ride from the temple, this no-frills local favorite serves authentic Odia breakfasts. Try their pakhala (fermented rice) with fried fish or the crispy chenna poda (caramelized cheese dessert) for something sweet.
- Their dalma (lentil-vegetable stew) is legendary
- Ask for the day's special
Evening Street Food Crawl
As the sun sets, head to Unit IV Market for Bhubaneswar's best street food. Sample crispy dahibara aloodum (fluffy lentil dumplings in yogurt), spicy ghuguni (pea curry), and the must-try chhena jhili (fried cheese balls in syrup). End with a hot cup of adrak chai (ginger tea).
- Look for stalls with the longest queues
- Carry small change (₹10-20 notes)
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Bhubaneswar Culture & Cuisine
Dive deeper into Bhubaneswar's rich heritage with visits to iconic landmarks and a taste of Odisha's culinary delights.
Activities
Morning at Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves
Start your day with a trip to these ancient rock-cut caves, once home to Jain monks. The intricate carvings and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect morning escape. Don’t miss the Hathi Gumpha (Elephant Cave) with its historic inscriptions.
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the steps
- Carry water as it can get warm
Lunch at Dalma
Head to this iconic restaurant for a taste of authentic Odia thali. Their signature dish, 'Dalma' (lentils cooked with vegetables), is a must-try. The thali also includes classics like 'Pakhala' (fermented rice) and 'Chhena Poda' (caramelized cottage cheese dessert).
- Try their 'Macha Besara' (fish curry) if you're a seafood lover
- Weekends can be crowded, so arrive early
Evening at Ekamra Haat
Wrap up your day at this vibrant handicraft market, where local artisans sell everything from Pattachitra paintings to silver filigree work. It’s also a great spot to sample street food like 'Dahi Bara Aloo Dam' and 'Gupchup' (local pani puri).
- Bargain politely for handicrafts
- Try the 'Rasabali' (sweet fried dough in syrup) from the food stalls
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Hidden Gems of Bhubaneswar
A relaxed day uncovering lesser-known spots, local markets, and authentic Odia flavors.
Activities
Morning at Nandankanan Zoological Park
Start your day with a visit to Nandankanan, one of India's few zoos with a white tiger safari and a botanical garden. The lush greenery and serene Kanjia Lake make it a peaceful escape. Don’t miss the reptile park and the chance to spot rare species like the Indian pangolin.
- Carry water and wear comfortable shoes—the zoo is sprawling.
- Weekends get crowded; weekdays are quieter.
Lunch at Odisha Hotel
Head back to the city for a hearty Odia thali at Odisha Hotel, a no-frills spot loved by locals. Their meals come with classics like dalma, saag, and chhena poda (caramelized cottage cheese dessert). The flavors are homely, and the portions are generous.
- Try their machha besara (fish curry)—it’s a standout.
- Cash-only; ATMs are nearby.
Evening at Tribal Crafts Market
Wrap up your trip with a visit to a lesser-known tribal crafts market near Unit I. This open-air market showcases handmade dokra metalwork, palm leaf engravings, and vibrant sarees from Odisha’s tribal communities. It’s quieter than Ekamra Haat but equally rich in culture.
- Bargain politely—prices are often negotiable.
- Look for the Pattachitra painters—their work is stunning.