Things To Do in Bhubaneswar

Whether you are exploring ancient rock cut caves, probing the cosmos or enjoying local delicacies; Bhubaneswar is a place where warmth and discovery converge. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Bhubaneswar, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

The Lingaraj Temple Bhubaneswar is much more than just a place for worship. It is an impressive piece of evidence of old-time architectural genius and devotion from people. Constructed in the 11th century by Somavamsi dynasty king Jajati Keshari, it represents classical Kalinga-style architecture in its shape. With its main tower measuring 180 feet and over 150 smaller shrines, intricate sculptures and carvings at the temple portray that era’s artistry. This temple is Shiva, who is called here Hari-Hara, thus being a centre for spiritual activities, especially throughout events like Mahashivaratri as well as Chandan Yatra which pull in thousands of devotees.

Lingaraj Temple Timings are set from 6:00 AM-12:30 PM and again from 3:30 PM-9:00 PM. One can easily get engrossed in this spiritual atmosphere all day through its entire schedule. Nevertheless, only Hindus are allowed entrance. Anyone can view the amazing exteriors from an adjacent platform, which gives them an opportunity to see how magnificently built they are.

Nandankanan Zoological Park is an amazing wildlife sanctuary situated on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar. It is famous for its unique open enclosures that resemble natural habitats. Since its establishment in 1960, the park has spread over 437 hectares, accommodating about 1600 animals, including white tigers, lions and Pangolins Indian (rare species). 

This makes it possible to view animals in their natural habitat-like settings as closely as possible, thus enhancing the overall experience of the park as a wildlife conservation facility. At INR 50 for adults from India, INR 10 for children and INR 100 for foreign nationals, Nandankanan Zoological Park tickets are affordable. The park operates from Monday to Sunday except in the early morning hours when it remains closed, starting operations from 7:30 AM. until 5:30 PM. 

The Udayagiri Khandagiri Caves take you back in time to India’s ancient Jain rock-cut architecture. They were chiselled out during the first century BC under the governance of King Kharavela, who made use of them as shelters for Jain monks known for their ornate carvings and historical inscriptions. Udayagiri, meaning ‘Rising Sun Mountain’, consists of 18 caves, while Khandagiri, meaning ‘Broken Hills’, has 15 caves. Additionally, the Hathigumpha inscription, which is housed here, provides insight into his achievements during his rule as the king. The Udayagiri Caves  are a calm place to explore that is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and are part of the “Golden Triangle” together with Puri and Konark in Odisha. 

The Regional Science Centre Bhubaneswar is an exciting centre for scientific discovery and education that was established in 1989. Seated on an 8-acre campus, it has an assortment of interactive exhibits with galleries that exemplify various science fields such as natural sciences, mathematics and physics. It features attractions like the Motion Gallery, whose emphasis is on motion principles and the Mathematics Gallery which illustrates practical applications of mathematical concepts to daily life situations. Visitors enjoy fun-filled experiences in the outdoor exhibits at the science park or animated dinosaur models at Prehistoric Life Park. 

The tranquil Dhauli Shanti Stupa Bhubaneswar Odisha is a poignant monument of peace and reconciliation. The serene statue lies on the banks of the Daya River which was once upon a time site for the Kalinga War which changed Indian Emperor Ashoka to Buddhism thereafter. The dome was made in 1972 by the Japanese Buddha Sangha, and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha is white with panels of stones illustrating scenes about the life and teachings of Buddhas. A peaceful place to meditate or reflect while surrounded by other features found within this garden. This Dhauli Shanti Stupa Bhubaneswar Odisha is open between 6 AM-6 PM every day without any entry fee, making it available to everyone. In the evenings, light and sound shows dramatise the narrative through vibrant lights as well as sound effects. At the same time, an annual Dhauli Festival in February showcases art, dance and music, highlighting Orissa’s rich cultural heritage. 

A thriving marketplace, both culturally and economically, in Bhubaneswar since it was established by the state government in 2002, known as Ekamra Haat. For instance, selling traditional handcrafts, handloom products, and local foods among others are more than fifty stalls that make up this vibrant celebration of Odisha’s artistic expressions. Right from pious Pattachitra paintings up to detailed tribal ornaments sold here represent various crafts that come from India’s handicraft sector having a wealthy legacy this Indian province has ever had. Apart from buying unique items in the market, one can take part in many other activities, for example, mingling with the artists and attending their workshops where they will be taught how to make such products. Its architecture blends traditional Odia elements with modern infrastructure which makes it an inviting and exclusive venue. 

Bhubaneswar is a culinary adventure of immense variety that embodies the diverse eating habits that exist within its boundaries. Among Bhubaneswar Famous Food, there are several traditional Odia dishes and the most colourful Street Food in Bhubaneswar. Some of the popular foods include Dalma, which is prepared by combining lentils and vegetables, while Chhena Poda represents a rich cheese dessert baked properly as per requirement, which epitomises the city’s culinary heritage. The city’s fast-food scene is just as fascinating, serving delicacies like Dahi Bara Aloo Dum, lentil fritters in yogurt, along with spicy potato curry and Ghuguni,  a savoury dish made from yellow peas that is spiced up. These street foods are available at local restaurants and stalls to give you an authentic flavour of Bhubaneswar’s gastronomical culture. For lovers of seafood, Chungdi Malai is a prawn curry thickened with cream served alongside Macha Ghanta, which is well-seasoned fish gravy made with vegetables on it.

The Pathani Samanta Planetarium Bhubaneswar ranks among the best places for people who generally love astronomy or space science. Named after an eminent astronomer called Pathani Samanta, this planetarium features a digital dome theatre that has been extensively modernised to give viewers a full view of the sky above their heads at 360 degrees angles. There are presentations about different subjects regarding astrology offered by the planetarium on a regular basis, ranging from basic celestial phenomena to advanced astrophysics. These shows are accessible in several languages include English, Hindi, and Odia, bringing out the inclusiveness in them. Besides the shows, visitors can also participate in sky observation programs at the planetarium for special astronomy events, where they will be able to view heavenly bodies using telescopes. The educational exhibits concerning space exploration, along with the history of celestial observations, have a great impact on one’s learning. Pathani Samanta Planetarium is known as a destination for families, students or anyone who has an interest in exploring scientific aspects of nature making it possible for them to appreciate the universe.

Bhubaneswar Art Trail is a unique cultural project that transforms the city into an open-air museum of art and honours its artistic spirit. Here, with only a stretch of 1.3 km in length, various artworks from both local and international artists are displayed which eventually create a bright patchwork of colour and theme. Moreover, these installations use art as a means to represent historical, cultural and modern issues when reflecting on the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry. This trail appeals to both inhabitants, who participate in art interaction activities such as workshops or cultural events. The community-oriented approach encourages public involvement so that people could better understand fine arts. 

Bhubaneswar tourism offers an educational experience. If you are interested in Odisha tour packages, then you should consider Bhubaneswar tour packages, which will introduce you to the breathtaking beauty of this place and the enchanting atmosphere surrounding it.