Planning a trip to Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is an exciting experience. Known as the "Temple City of India," Bhubaneswar is not only a hub of ancient temples but also a city with a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. Whether you’re visiting for the majestic architecture, spiritual significance, or cultural immersion, this guide provides you with essential tips for a smooth and enjoyable journey. From the best time to visit and how to get around, to must-see attractions and local customs, this comprehensive travel guide will help you navigate your trip to Bhubaneswar like a pro.

1. Best Time to Visit Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar’s tropical climate means that choosing the right season for your visit can significantly impact your experience.

• Winter (October to March): The winter season is undoubtedly the best time to visit Bhubaneswar. With temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C, the weather is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Many of the city’s important festivals, such as Durga Puja, Rath Yatra, and Ekamra Utsav, take place during these months, adding a cultural flavor to your trip.

• Summer (April to June): Summers in Bhubaneswar can be sweltering, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C. If you’re visiting during this period, it’s best to plan indoor activities and avoid being outside during the peak afternoon heat. Stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.

• Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall, transforming the landscape into a lush green haven. However, the rains can disrupt travel plans, so if you decide to visit during this time, make sure to pack an umbrella and expect occasional downpours. The humidity can also be quite high during this period.

Pro Tip: If you’re interested in experiencing Bhubaneswar’s vibrant festivals, plan your trip during Rath Yatra in June-July or during the Ekamra Utsav in January, which celebrates the cultural heritage of the city.

2. How to Reach Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it an accessible destination for travellers from all over India and abroad.

• By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) is the main airport serving Bhubaneswar, with regular flights from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Chennai. The airport also has a few international connections to Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The airport is located just 4 km from the city center, and taxis, as well as rideshare options like Ola and Uber, are readily available.

• By Train: Bhubaneswar Railway Station is a key hub in India’s rail network. There are frequent trains from most major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. The railway station is centrally located, making it easy to reach your hotel or other city attractions.

• By Road: Bhubaneswar is connected by several national highways, making road travel a viable option. You can drive or take a bus from nearby cities such as Puri (around 60 km away) and Cuttack (about 30 km away). There are both government and private bus services operating frequently.

Pro Tip: Book your transportation tickets in advance, especially during festival seasons when Bhubaneswar sees an influx of tourists.

3. Getting Around Bhubaneswar: Once you’re in Bhubaneswar, getting around is quite convenient. There are several transport options to choose from, depending on your budget and preference.

• Auto-Rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are the most common form of transport for short distances within the city. Although they don’t run on meters, fares are usually negotiable. It’s best to agree on a price before starting your ride to avoid confusion.

• Taxis: Taxis are available through rideshare services like Ola and Uber. These are more comfortable for longer distances or when traveling with luggage. You can also hire a taxi for a full day to explore nearby attractions like Dhauli or the Khandagiri-Udayagiri Caves.

• Buses: Bhubaneswar’s public bus system, operated by the Bhubaneswar-Puri Transport Service (BPTS), is efficient and budget-friendly. The buses cover most of the city, but they can get crowded, especially during peak hours.

• Bicycles and Scooters: Several rental services offer bicycles and scooters for tourists who prefer a more independent way to explore the city. This is an eco-friendly and fun way to discover hidden gems, especially in the old town area.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting multiple temples or landmarks in one day, hiring a cab for the day might be more convenient. Most hotels can arrange reliable taxi services for day trips.

4. Where to Stay in Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to all kinds of travellers – from luxury seekers to budget-conscious backpackers.

• Luxury Hotels: Bhubaneswar has several high-end hotels such as the Mayfair Lagoon, Trident Hotel, and Swosti Premium, offering top-notch facilities and services. These hotels are perfect if you’re looking for comfort and indulgence, with features like pools, spas, and fine dining restaurants.

• Mid-Range Hotels: For travellers looking for good value, there are plenty of mid-range options such as Hotel Pal Heights and Ginger Bhubaneswar. These offer clean and comfortable rooms with modern amenities at reasonable prices.

• Budget Hotels and Guesthouses: If you’re traveling on a budget, there are many affordable options, particularly around the railway station and Old Town areas. Guesthouses and budget hotels provide basic but clean rooms at pocket-friendly prices.

Pro Tip:It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals when hotels can get fully booked.

5. What to See and Do in Bhubaneswar - Bhubaneswar is brimming with cultural and historical landmarks, offering plenty to explore for all types of travellers.

Temples

• Lingaraj Temple: This 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the largest and most famous in Bhubaneswar. The Kalinga architecture and the grand scale of the temple make it a must-visit for anyone interested in history and spirituality.

• Mukteswara Temple: Known for its ornate carvings and beautiful gateway, Mukteswara Temple is a great example of early Kalinga architecture. It’s smaller but equally captivating and is often less crowded than Lingaraj.

• Rajarani Temple: This temple is famous for its architectural beauty and intricate sandstone carvings. Interestingly, it doesn’t house any deity and is more known for its aesthetic appeal.

Historical and Natural Sites

• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: These ancient rock-cut caves, located just outside the city, are a fascinating glimpse into the Jain heritage of the region. The caves feature inscriptions and carvings dating back to the 2nd century BCE.

• Dhauli Hills:Dhauli is the site where Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism after the Kalinga War. The Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda) here is a symbol of peace and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

• Nandankanan Zoological Park: If you’re traveling with family or have an interest in wildlife, Nandankanan is a great place to visit. The zoo is famous for its white tigers and also features a botanical garden.

• Odisha State Museum: This museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture of Odisha, with exhibits ranging from ancient sculptures and coins to traditional paintings and manuscripts.

Pro Tip: Allocate at least a full day to explore the temples and another day for historical sites to fully appreciate Bhubaneswar’s cultural richness.

6. Where to Eat in Bhubaneswar: Food in Bhubaneswar is a mix of traditional Odia cuisine and popular street food.

• Odia Cuisine:Don’t miss out on authentic local dishes like pakhala (fermented rice), dalma (lentils and vegetables), machhabesara (fish in mustard gravy), and the unique sweet chhenapoda (baked cottage cheese dessert). Restaurants like Dalma and Odisha Hotel are great places to try these dishes.

• Street Food: Bhubaneswar’s street food scene is thriving. Gupchup (pani puri), dahi vada aloo dum, and chaat are popular snacks that you’ll find in markets and street corners. Try these at popular spots like Market Building or near Unit-1 Market for the most authentic flavors.

Pro Tip: While street food is tempting, be mindful of hygiene. It’s advisable to eat at places that look clean and have a good turnover of customers to ensure freshness.

7. Shopping in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

• EkamraHaat: A popular handicraft market where you can buy Pattachitra paintings, handwoven ikat textiles, silver filigree jewelry, and other traditional Odia crafts. The market offers a good variety of locally made products at reasonable prices.

• Orissa State Handloom Corporation: If you’re interested in buying authentic handloom saris and textiles, this government-run store offers high-quality products at fixed prices.

Pro Tip:Don’t hesitate to bargain at local markets, but keep in mind that prices at government shops like EkamraHaat are reasonable and honest.