Bhubaneswar

A thriving centre of art and culture, once the heart land of erstwhile Kalinga Kingdom, Bhubaneswar is presently renowned as the capital city of State of Orissa in India. Bhubaneswar, literally means the Lord (eswar) of the Universe (bhuban), is a hub of historic temples and the city is webbed with many concrete lanes. The present modern city of Bhubaneswar was established in 1946 which is designed by the world renowned German architect Otto Königsberger. The capital city, once known for its architecture and grand temples, is presently a thriving centre for commerce and business. Having blended very nicely its formidable past with its modern aspirations and facilities, it forms a part of the Golden Triangle of holy temple cities Puri and Konark.

The grand city is renowned for its temples as well as applique work of Pipli, Ikat sarees, cane furniture and Bidri-ware. Art is an integral part of the city life from time immemorial, the world renowned Odissi dance form has originated in this city.

The city is endowed with many tourist attractions and religious spots. The city houses more than 500 temples, including the world famous temples like Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswar Temple, Bindu Sagar, Shatrughaneswar Temple, Vaital Temple, Parashurameswar Temple and Rajarani Temple. Thousands of devotee throng to these temples in Bhubaneswar on a regular basis.

A well maintained Regional Plant Resource Center (RPRC) is a prime attraction here. This centre is famous for maintaining the largest Rose garden in India. Other important attractions in the city are Orissa State Museum, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Orissa Modern Art Gallery, Tribal Museum and Pathani Samanta Planetarium. Kalinga, the famous place of War after which Great Emperor Ashoka renounced violence is a short distance away from Bhubaneswar.

This is city offers all facilities, modern and traditional, to the tourists and has already gained the status of a permanent spot in the tour plan of foreign tourists.