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Temple City Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, the capital of Orissa, is also popularly known as the "Temple City of India". Being the seat of Tribhubaneswar or 'Lord Lingaraj', Bhubaneswar is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre. Hundreds of temples dot the landscape of the Old Town, which once boasted of more than 2000 temples. Bhubaneswar is the place where temple building activities of Orissan style flowered from its very inception to its fullest culmination extending over a period of over one thousand years.
Bhubaneswar and other part of the Orissa can be visited round the year, but the ideal time would be from October to March when the rains are over and the temperature is just right. Remember, summer is extremely humid and hence an enervating time for travelers not used to the heat and humidity.
| » Bhubaneswar |
 Lingaraj means 'the king of Lingas', 'Linga' or 'Lingam' being the symbol of Lord Shiva worship.
The temple is more than 1000 years old, dating back in its present form to the last decade of the eleventh century, though there is evidence that parts of the temple have been there since sixth century AD as the temple has been emphasized in some of the seventh century Sanskrit texts. |
| » Dhauli |
 Famous for the historic rock edict of Ashoka and the place of Kalinga. The Shanti Stupa – a 20th century structure by Japanese collaboration has great aesthetic appeal.
After traveling a distance of 7 KMs from Bhubaneswar towards Puri (or Konarak) one can see Dhauligiri Shanti Stupa at the right side (on Dhauli hills) just after crossing Daya river bridge. From this point on Puri road (also known as Jaganath road) the Shanti Stupa distance is 3 Km. |
| » Khandagiri & Udayagiri |
 Known for well carved, polished Jain caves and rock edict of Kharavela. Most famous caves are Hati Gumpha (Elephant cave) and Rani Gumpha (Queen’s cave). |
| » Nandankanan |
A beautiful natural setting is carved out of Chandaka Forest is one of the finest parks in the country. The white tiger safari, lion safari and many endangered species attract the attention of visitors. Boating, Toy trains, Cable cars and the Botanical garden are the added attractions. |
| » Chilka |
 Largest inland lake of the country and this brackish water lagoon is home to diversified classes of fauna. This is also an important sanctuary and water resort for migratory birds. Other places of interest in and around Chilka are :
Parikuda and Maluda: Populous island inside the lake.
Kalijai: Rocky Island associated with many legends.
Satapada: A retreat in the bosom of nature to witness thrilling sights of Dolphins. |
| » Konark |
Famous Konark temple here, is conceived has a gigantic chariot for ‘Sun God’. This ‘Black Pagoda’ ‘The Epic on Stone’ is a superb architectural monument bustling with power and grace beside the enchanted shoreline.
Other places of interest in and around Konark is:
Chandrabhaga: The beach here is longed for the scenes of sunrise on sea. |
| » Puri |
Famous for the temple of Lord Sri Jagannath. A tourist destination for the Golden beach with Sun, Sea and Surf. This ancient town is one of the pithas established by Shankaracharya.
Other places of interest in and around this pilgrim town are:
Sakhigopal Temple: This temple is well known for worship of Radha and Krishna.
Lokanath Temple: This temple at Puri is the seat of Lord Shiva. |
| » Bhitarakanika |
This marine sanctuary of 672 sq.kms. is in the estuary of Brahmani River. This mangrove-dominated sanctuary harbours a wide variety of reptiles, birds and mammals. |
| » Nrusimhanath Temple |
The 15th century temple at the foot of Gandhamardan mountain is a famous pilgrimage destination.
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| » Simlipal |
One of the biggest wild life sanctuaries of the country well known for its sylvian beauty of valleys and waterfalls. This mesmerize the visitors.
Other places in and around Simlipal are:
Barehipani: The waterfall within a thrilling surrounding amuses visitors.
Joranda: This waterfall is also full of amazing sights.
Chahala: A place to witness wild life live.
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