Things To Do in Bhubaneshwar/Bhubaneswar in One Day (2024)

Discover the cultural and historical wonders of Bhubaneshwar/Bhubaneswar in just one day! Explore ancient temples, explore the rich heritage, and savor local flavors. This post uncovers the top things to do in Bhubaneshwar, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, make the most of your day in this vibrant city. Unearth the essence of Bhubaneshwar’s charm with our curated list of activities for an unforgettable day-long adventure.

Last year, I embarked on a one-day solo journey to Bhubaneshwar, driven by my fascination with Indian cities on my bucket list. Despite having a friend in Bhubaneshwar, I opted for a day visit, eager to explore the city’s charm without an overnight stay. The brief yet immersive experience allowed me to prioritize my curiosity for Indian urban life, marking another city off my list of travel aspirations.

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About Bhubaneshwar

Bhubaneshwar, the capital of Odisha in India, is renowned for its captivating architecture and ancient temples, earning it the monikers ‘Temple City’ or ‘Ekamra Kshetra.’ With a fascinating history dating back to the 7th century BC, the city’s name, Bhubaneshwar, originates from “Tribhubaneswara,” signifying Lord Shiva, the deity of the Three Worlds. This historical and cultural hub encapsulates the essence of ancient India, making it a significant destination for those intrigued by its rich heritage and spiritual landmarks.

The prime destinations in Odisha include the cities of Bhubaneshwar, Puri, and Konark, collectively creating the Golden Triangle in eastern India. For an optimal visit to Bhubaneshwar, it’s advisable to plan your trip between October and February when the weather is pleasant and not excessively hot.

In this vibrant city, the predominant languages spoken are Odia, English, and Hindi, ensuring a diverse and accessible communication experience for visitors. Explore these significant locales’ cultural richness and historical marvels, forming an enriching journey through the heart of Odisha’s heritage.

How to Get to Bhubaneshwar?

By Air

Regular flights connect Bhubaneshwar with various capital cities. Opting for the most economical option, I chose an Indigo flight for my journey. The return ticket from Bhubaneshwar to Bangalore amounted to INR 7303.

• Airport name: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI).
• Distance from the city: 6 kilometres.

By Public Transport

Additionally, trains and buses facilitate travel between these cities.

• Train bookings can be made on the IRCTC website.
• For bus reservations, visit the Redbus website.

Local Transportation in Bhubaneshwar

Local transportation options in the city include auto-rickshaws, taxis/cabs, and cycle rickshaws. Depending on the distance, travelers can select the most suitable mode of transport.

Tip: Negotiating the quoted fare is advisable to ensure a fair deal.

Consider incorporating a visit to Puri alongside your exploration of Bhubaneshwar.

Things To Do in Bhubaneshwar in One Day

As mentioned, my visit to Bhubaneshwar was limited to just one day, during which I explored the following places per the itinerary. These are the things to do in Bhubaneshwar in One Day:

Note:
Opting for a day-long cab service is highly recommended to save time on commuting between these locations.
For the latest information on entry fees, it is advisable to check the respective websites or inquire at the ticketing counter.

Lingaraja Temple

My initial destination in Bhubaneshwar was the Lingaraja Temple, a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing the remarkable Kalinga architecture. Constructed in the Deula style, the temple comprises four integral components: Vimana, Jagmohana, Natamandir, and Bhoga Mandapa.

• Entry Fee: No entry fee is applicable.
• To honor local traditions, dress appropriately when visiting.

Note: Cameras and phones are restricted within the temple premises. However, this gopuram, located just outside the temple, resembles the ones inside.

Fun Fact – The primary central tower of the temple stands tall at 180 feet, and the complex features a total of 50 shrines.

Raja Rani Temple

The Raja Rani Temple, dedicated to the King and Queen, is believed to have been completed in the 11th century. Fondly referred to as the Love Temple by locals, it attracts many couples due to the intricate carvings within the complex.

• Entry Fee: INR 5 for Indians and INR 250 for Foreign nationals.
• Tickets can be acquired at the entrance of the temple.

Mukteswar Temple

My favorite temple is the Mukteswar Temple, which features a brilliant architectural style that captivated me. Built in the 10th century, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is hailed as the Gem of Odisha architecture.

• Entry Fee: INR 25 for Indians and INR 300 for Foreign nationals.
• Tickets can be obtained at the entrance.

Fun Fact – The temple has a rich history, dating to the period between 950 and 975 CE.

Dhauli Giri

Dhauli Giri, situated approximately 8 kilometers from the city, holds great historical significance. It marks where King Ashoka abandoned his military pursuits following the Kalinga War in 261 BC and embraced Buddhism.

• Entry Fee: No entry fee is applicable.

Odisha State Museum

The Odisha State Museum is another enchanting place that captured my admiration. Witnessing artifacts dating back to the 1st century is an absolute delight. A visit to this museum is a must when in Bhubaneshwar.

• Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 100 for Foreign nationals.
• Tickets can be acquired at the entrance.

Fun Fact – The museum proudly exhibits artifacts like Patta paintings, one of Indian painting styles, and palm leaf manuscripts.

Udayagiri Caves

The Udayagiri caves offer a fantastic spot to witness the sunset and enjoy breathtaking city views. With approximately 18 caves to explore, I visited only one due to time constraints.

• Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians and INR 200 for Foreign nationals.
• Tickets can be obtained at the entrance.

Fun Fact – Udayagiri translates to “Sunrise Hill,” and the nearby hill is called Khandagiri. Both these hills are mentioned in the Hathigumpha inscription as Kumari Parvata.

Expenses for One Day in Bhubaneshwar

• Flight Cost = INR 7303.
• Taxi = INR 1000. I opted for a day-long taxi service to visit all the listed places.
• Food = INR 600.
• Entry Fees and Miscellaneous = INR 300.

Total Expenses: INR 9203 for a single day.

Where to Stay at Bhubaneshwar?

When looking for accommodation in Bhubaneshwar, consider the following options:

1. Luxury Hotels:
   • Mayfair Lagoon Hotel: A luxurious choice with modern amenities and a serene environment.
   • Hotel Swosti Premium: Known for its abundant facilities and excellent hospitality.
2. Mid-Range Hotels:
   • Hotel Swosti Premium: A comfortable stay with affordable and quality services.
   • Empires Hotel: Offers a pleasant stay with decent amenities.
3. Budget Hotels:
   • The Crown: A budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a convenient location.
   • Pushpak Hotel and Convention: Provides affordable accommodation with essential facilities.
4. Guesthouses and Homestays:
   • Consider exploring local guesthouses or homestays for a more personalized experience.

Is Bhubaneshwar Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Despite having a friend residing in Bhubaneshwar, I predominantly explored the city solo. Fortunately, I encountered no issues during my solo travels within the city. I felt at ease with the surroundings and the places I visited. The locals were generally friendly and willing to assist if needed. However, as a general precaution, I would advise exercising caution, especially at night, and trusting your instincts, as is advisable in any location.

Closing Notes

Even though I had never heard much about Bhubaneshwar as a tourist destination, I can attest that the city is rich in history, stories, and sights. It’s an incredible place to uncover ancient temples and marvel at the architecture. Surprisingly, one day proved sufficient to explore the city thoroughly. I highly recommend adding Bhubaneshwar to your bucket list or list of places to visit; my experience was delightful, and I discovered the city’s hidden gems with great delight.

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