Discover Bhubaneswar: The Temple City of India

Situated along the eastern coast of India, Bhubaneswar is the capital of Odisha. Once the heart of the ancient Kalinga kingdom, it is now celebrated as the “Temple City of India” for its magnificent shrines and enduring architectural heritage. From the intricately carved Lingaraja and Mukteswara Temples to the historic Udayagiri Caves, every site tells a story of devotion, craftsmanship, and cultural evolution.

Beyond its sacred spaces, Bhubaneswar charms travellers with vibrant markets, handcrafted Oriya art, and a distinctive culinary scene. As one of India’s fastest-growing cities, it has evolved into a hub of innovation and education while preserving its spiritual essence. Club ITC Hotels, Bhubaneswar, offer a comfortable stay where tradition meets modernity.

Best Time to Visit Bhubaneswar for Business or Leisure

Bhubaneswar welcomes visitors year-round, but certain months offer ideal comfort and experiences:

• December to February: Cool, dry weather perfect for temple visits and outdoor sightseeing.
• October to November: Clear skies and mild temperatures ideal for cultural exploration.
• March to April: Comfortable for business travel and short leisure trips before peak summer.

Enhance your stay with premium hotels in Bhubaneswar offering curated experiences and refined amenities.

Fun & Lesser-Known Facts About Bhubaneswar

• Designed by German architect Otto Königsberger, Bhubaneswar was one of India’s first planned cities and replaced Cuttack as Odisha’s capital in 1948. It forms part of the cultural Golden Triangle with Puri and Konark.
• Known as the Sports Capital of the East, Kalinga Stadium has hosted international hockey and athletic championships.
• The city is emerging as the “Silicon Valley of the East,” developing into a major IT and education hub.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Auto-Rickshaws: A convenient and authentic way to explore city streets.
• Private Taxis: Ideal for longer journeys and comfortable sightseeing.
• Two-Wheeler Rentals: Suitable for independent travellers seeking flexibility.

Pro Tip: Start early to avoid temple traffic and keep some cash handy for local rides.

Top Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar

• ISKCON Temple: A serene spiritual retreat known for its elegant architecture.
• Mukteswara Temple: Renowned for intricate carvings and architectural brilliance.
• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: Historic rock-cut caves reflecting cultural and religious significance.
• Pipli: Famous for vibrant appliqué handicrafts and traditional markets.
• Pathani Samanta Planetarium: Educational exhibits and engaging sky shows.
• Nandankanan Zoological Park: A scenic wildlife sanctuary with safari experiences.
• Wonderla Amusement Park: Thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions.

Engaging Local Activities in Bhubaneswar

• Trekking: Explore scenic trails and natural viewpoints.
• Paramotoring: Enjoy aerial views of the city’s landscapes.
• Nandankanan Zoological Park: Participate in safaris and botanical walks.
• Nexus Esplanade: A modern retail and lifestyle destination.
• Symphony Mall: Offers retail outlets, dining, and leisure spaces.
• Ekamra Haat: A cultural marketplace celebrating Odisha’s crafts and traditions.

A Foodie’s Guide to Iconic Dishes in Bhubaneswar

• Dalma: A nutritious lentil and vegetable stew.
• Pakhala Bhat: Fermented rice dish served with accompaniments.
• Chhena Poda: Caramelised baked cottage cheese dessert.
• Gupchup: Local version of pani puri.
• Chungdi Malai: Prawns cooked in creamy coconut milk.
• Mutton Kasa: Slow-cooked mutton curry.
• Pitha Varieties: Traditional rice cakes like Enduri and Arisa Pitha.

Premium Club ITC Hotels in Bhubaneswar elevate local cuisine through curated dining experiences.

Find the Perfect Accommodation in Bhubaneswar with Club ITC Hotels

• Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bhubaneswar: Inspired by Odisha’s temple architecture, located about 8 km from the airport, offering premium rooms, dining, lawns, and banqueting facilities.
• Fortune Park Sishmo: Centrally located with modern rooms, dining venues, gym, Wi-Fi, and banquet halls for events.

How to Reach Bhubaneswar: Flights, Trains & Road Trips

• By Air: Served by Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), about 6 km from the city centre.
• By Rail: Bhubaneswar Railway Station connects to major cities across India.
• By Road: Well-connected via National Highways with buses, taxis, and app-based cab services available.