Bhubaneswar is the capital state of Orissa state of India. This state is known for its Sun Temple and other temples are dedicated to Lord Lingaraja. The state of Orissa is situated on the Eastern coast of India in the Bay of Bengal. The city is also known for the historical conquest of King Asoka on the state of Kalinga. The War of Kalinga that took place for almost 10 years have changed the life of Asoka forever. There are a number of Asokan inscriptions and pillars that are situated all over the state.
Today, the modern Bhubaneswar has a well-planned structure with all the basic amenities and services.
Reaching Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar has its own domestic airport that is situated on the outskirts of the city. There a number of regular flights from different cities of the country and are operated by major airline carriers such as Jet, Kingfisher, SpiceJet, IndiGo and Air India.
Bhubaneswar is the headquarters of Eastern Railways arm of Indian Railways. As a result the railway station is a major center for the transportation of passengers and cargo all over the country. Bhubaneswar is well connected by the network of national highways that bring in traffic from all over the country.
Attraction in Bhubaneswar
The city of Bhubaneswar is one of the three cities that are making up the Golden Triangle of East India. The city is one of the prime centres of pilgrimage for Hindus and Buddhists. There are a number of temples that are known for their architecture. Some of the places that are worth visiting in Bhubaneswar are:
- Old Town: Almost all the famous temples of Bhubaneswar are located in this side of the city. There are about 400 temples that were built during eras and points of time.
- Lingaraja Temple: This is one of the most grandest and magnificent temples of India. This temple is dedicated to lord Lingaraja and was constructed in the 11th to 13th century AD. The surface of the temple is covered with a number of carvings and screens. This Hindu temple is rated as exotic and one of the best masterpieces of Hindu style of art and architecture by many historians.
- Dhauli Giri: This temple is situated about 8 kilometres away from the temple and witnessed the gruelling battle of Kalinga that was fought between Asoka and Kalinga Empire. This war changed the heart of Asoka forever and converted him to Buddhism. Some of the edicts of Asoka have been carefully preserved in various museums and other centers in India. These artefacts belong to about 3rd century BC.
- Mukteshwar Temple: This temple dates back to 10th century AD and marks a transition point between early and later stages of Kalinga war. This temple is considered as one of the best examples of Orissan architecture.
