Temples Of Bhubaneshwar, Odisha
Been there recently?
Bhubaneshwar is a populous city that is an industrial hub, an economic centre of Odisha state, and it is also one of the very few planned cities in the country. At the outset, a tourist may not find anything appealing. But if you are a history, art, or temple enthusiast, then all you have to do is scratch the surface. A beautiful world of magnificently unique Kalinga architecture opens up. Once known as the “Land of 1000 Temples,” Bhubaneshwar now has about twenty of these marvellous creations left. Take a stroll in the old part of the city, and these beauties will come into your path one by one, rejuvenating the art lover in you, enthralling the architecture enthusiast in you, and surprising the history buff in you. Built during the 8th and 13th-centuries, these timeless torchbearers of Kalinga architecture shine on. Make sure you visit Bhubaneswar and enjoy some quiet, fulfilling moments with an ancient style that is endemic to Odisha. From August to March is the best time to visit Bhubaneswar. It is well connected by road, rail, and air from Kolkata.
Nearby Places to See
Towering at about 175 feet, the Lingaraj Temple Complex is the city’s most well-known and frequently visited temple. This complex, which is said to be a full temple, includes all the hallmarks of a religious structure and is an impressive sight. Nearly 50 shrines of varying sizes were erected, with construction likely beginning in the 7th century and continuing into the 11th. Large-scale Shivaratri celebrations are held on these temple grounds every year.
Located on the outskirts of the city is the beautiful Mukteswara Temple. Only the entrance arch remains of the original structure. Nonetheless, the opulence of the temple’s main structure and tower hint at the impressiveness of the temple’s original design. This temple, built in the 10th century, is adorned with ornate carvings.
Stunningly beautiful, the Parashurameshvara Temple stands on its own. It is a tall tower with an ornate finial and a flat mantapa roof in front. Miniature sculptures, such as those depicting the Saptamatrikas and other manifestations of Shiva, are scattered across the mantapa’s walls.
Dedicated to Bhagawan Krishna, the Ananta Vasudeva Temple first appeared in the 13th century. This Vaishnava temple stands out among the many Shaiva temples in the area because it was likely constructed during a time when Shaivism’s influence was declining. It has been said that the temple serves an afternoon meal to visitors, using the same recipes as when the temple was first built.
There are many other temples in India that are just as artistic and beautiful as the ones already mentioned. Some examples include the temples of Raja Rani, Brahmeshwar, Chausath Yogini, Kedar Gauri, Baital, Bharateshwar, Jameshwar, and Megheshwar. Other temples in the city are also worth visiting.
Things to Buy
Things to buy include Ikat fabrics, Tussar silk.
Foods to Relish
Cuttack Chat, Dahi Pakal, Santula, Machcha Jholo (fish curry).
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