Bhubaneshwar Travel Information
Bhubaneswar, the 'Cathedral City' was once the capital of an ancient kingdom. Today this hustling centre for commerce and religious activity is Orissa's modern capital. Having merged its intriguing past so uniquely with its modern aspirations, it forms an integral link in the Golden Triangle that incorporates the holy city of Puri and Konark, for the tourists that flock to pay their homage to the religious, cultural and natural wonders that abound here.
The striking features of the city are the numerous temples and shrines that seem to be all around you. Bhubaneswar's skyline is dominated by some of the most spectacular engineering and artistic feats of its ancient heritage. The imposing spire of the Lingaraj Temple, the quiet beauty of the Vishwa Shanti Stupa and the pink transluscence of the Mahavira Jain Temple in nearby Khandagiri, inspire feelings of wonder at their sheer beauty and their cross-cultural permutations. These three alone offer an excellent insight into the ancient cultural strength of Orissa and are well-worth exploring at greater length.
At least four of Bhubaneswar's temples must be on the tourist's agenda, to get a feel of the dynamic artistry and development of their indigenous perfection.
The temples have after all stood testimony to the area's history, which spans 25 centuries. The Lingaraj, the Parsurameswar, the Mukteswar and the Rajarani temples are unique in themselves, not only in their architectural beauty but also in the wonderful sculptures which enhance their presence. An interesting variation figures in the Vaital and Brahmeswar temples. Though the Lingaraj is closed to non-Hindus, ic can be viewed from the viewing platform constructed alongside.
The State Museum of Bhubaneswar offers an excellent selection of archaeological artefacts, weapons and local arts and crafts and insights into Orissa's natural and tribal history. The museum has world's largest collection of palm-leaf paintings. The Tribal Research Institute Museum with its authentic tribal dwellings, created by the tribal craftsmen is a great place to get a bird's eye view of the State's tribal heritage. The Regional Plant Resource Centre (RPRC) has about 500 acres of plantations, tissue culture and experimental laboratory and a huge lake where migratory birds make their home. The two unique features of RPRC are its status for housing the largest rose garden in the country (an area of 20 acres) and having the largest collection of cacti (550) in Asia.
Bhubaneswar is a shopper's delight. Sarees woven by the master weavers in silk and cotton are available in the private shops and government emporia. You can also pick up all kinds of artefacts and jewellery produced in different parts of the State. The I landloom Weavers Co-operative is worth a visit. Bhubaneswar has excellent air and rail linkages with most major cities in the country.
