Morning Expedition
08:00 AM – 01:00 PM
One of the most visited places in Bhubaneshwar is Nandan Kanan National Park and to avoid the rush and long queue, be here early.
Nandan Kanan literally means ‘The Garden of Heaven’. The zoological park is a unique wildlife sanctuary that has gained prominence for its mission of conserving endangered flora and fauna. There are multiple aspects of the park which attract a large number of visitors from around the globe. An ideal place for people traveling with family or in large groups. With activities like safaris, toy train rides, boating, &c., you are bound to have a great time here.
For more info about Nandan Kanan, visit www.nandankanan.org
Time Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours
Mode of Transport: Any public transport.
20 km from Nandan Kanan is the Udaygiri and Khandagiri Caves.
Udaygiri and Khandagiri Caves have been in existence since the 1st century. These are a blend of natural and artificial caves and hold immense historical and religious significance. There are a total of 33 caves with 18 in Udaygiri and 15 in Khandagiri. Every cave has been assigned a dedicated name. If you have a knack for heritage and history, this is a must-visit place for you.
Time Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
Mode of Transport: Auto/Taxi from Nandan Kanan.
Head towards Ashok Nagar for luncheon. There you find cuisines of all varieties. Truptee Restaurant and Narula’s Restaurant are two popular places among the localities.
Also read: Konark Itinerary
Old Town Sightseeing
03:00 PM – 07:00 PM
The old town of Bhubaneshwar is all about religious heritage and culture. One of the iconic religious sites is the Lingaraja Temple.
Probably the oldest temple in the city of Bhubaneshwar, the Lingaraja Temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be almost 1000 years old. The temple is the epitome of the Odissi style of architecture. During festivals, the temple receives scores of devotees.
Time Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Mode of Transport: Auto/Taxi from Ashok Nagar.
500 meters north of Lingaraja Temple, is Bindu Sagar.
Bindu Sagar Lake is an integral part of the Lingaraja Temple complex. The figurine of Lord Lingaraja is immersed in the lake for a ritual bath once every year. Government initiatives to make Bindu Sagar a tourist and spiritual hotspot are in full swing.
Time Duration: 30 – 45 min
Mode of Transport: Walkable distance from Lingaraja Temple.
500 meters east of Bindu Sagar, you find Mukteshwara Temple Complex.
Another Odissi architectural marvel, Mukteshwara Temple is quite similar to Lingaraja Temple. Like Linggaraja Temple, Mukteshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The intricate design and planning of the temple complex is something to admire.
Time Duration: 30 – 45 min
Mode of Transport: Walkable distance from Bindu Sagar
Your sightseeing for the day ends at Rajarani Temple, 700 meters from Mukteshwara Temple.
Although you may find the overall structure similar the sculptures and the carvings are unique. The temple is often known as Love Temple.
Time Duration: 45 min – 1 hour
Mode of Transport: Walkable distance from Mukteshwara Temple.
After completing your sightseeing, head towards Ashok Nagar for some local shopping. Utkalia is a popular destination for shopaholics where you find authentic textiles, handlooms, and handicrafts.
