Mukteshwar Temple, one of the most prominent temples of Bhubaneswar, has been constructed in the style that is quite similar to the one used in the Kalinga School of Temple Architecture. The splendid Torana of the temple, an ornamental arched gateway, is very much reminiscent of the influence of Buddhism in Orissa. Established in the year 950 AD, Mukteswar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its major highlights consist of the exquisite carvings that depict ascetics in different meditative pose. On the eastern side of the temple, there is a large well.
It is said that, taking a dip in the holy well cures a person of infertility. Mukteshwar temple exudes magnificence and delicacy. It is a perfect blend of ancient and modern designing and this is what makes it simply outstanding. This architecture is one of the basic reasons why Mukteswar temple is also known as the ‘Gem of Orissa architecture'. It has undergone a dramatic makeover, but still retains its essence. The temple stands within an octagonal compound wall that is based on the lines of structures built in the bygone times. However, today, the wall has been reduced to nothing more than small fragments.
Nandankanan National Park :- Nandankanan National Park is a must-visit tourist attraction of Orissa. On one hand, it fulfills the criteria of being a zoological park. On the other hand, it also serves as a grand botanical garden, where one can see even the rarest species of plants. More
Dhauli Hill one of the most visited Buddhist pilgrim destinations in India, is situated in the state of Orissa. It is located in the Khurda district, at a distance of approximately 8 km from Bhubaneswar. More
Udaygiri & Khandagiri Caves :- Orissa is well known for the ancient caves located in the twin cities of Udaygiri (meaning the hill of the sunrise) and Khandagiri (meaning the broken hill). They are situated near the capital city of Bhubaneswar. Udaygiri caves are approximately 135 ft high and Khandagiri caves are 118 ft high. More
Sun Temple :- Sun temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Konark. The credit for constructing this 13th century old shrine, dedicated to Sun God, goes to Raja Narsimhadeva of the Ganga dynasty. Konark Sun Temple has been built in the form of a gigantic chariot that has 24 wheels. More
Pipli :- Lying approximately 29 km from Bhubaneswar, Pipli is a small village that is famous as a centre for appliqué work. A visit to the village can bring you very close to the culture of Orissa. Colorful canopies, blooming gardens, bright beach umbrellas, shoulder and handbags, etc are some of the things you can shop for, when in Pipli.
Atri Springs :- Atri springs are situated at a distance of about 42 km from the city of Bhubaneswar. Hot sulphur springs; they are believed to cure people of acute skin diseases. At the same time, the vast greenery surrounding them, along with the picturesque locales, definitely makes the visit a pleasant experience.
Yogini Temple (Hirapur) :- The city of Hirapur lies almost 15 km from Bhubaneshwar. It is known for its Hypaethral temple of sixty four Yoginis, which dates back to as far back as the 11th century. This temple is second of its kind in Orissa and fourth of its kind in India.
Sisupalgarh :- Sisupalgarh is an old, ruined city that is situated at a distance of approximately two km from the Lingaraja Temple of Bhubaneswar. It is believed to date back to the third or fourth century BC and serves as a proof of the fact that even at that time; fortified cities existed in the area.