48 Hours In Bhubaneswar

We all know about the Golden Triangle in west India. However, do you know there’s one in the east too? Bhubaneswar being the prime vertex connecting the two beach cities, Puri and Konark. Apart from playing the centre point, the capital city is also home to many important historical sites. Although I just had a day to explore the city. However, a day is not enough to experience it as a whole. 

Follow this 2-day itinerary for a perfect getaway:

Day 1: Fly out from Delhi (or your city)

Maximize your day with an early morning flight to Bhubaneswar. You can sleep on your way so that you feel energized throughout the day.

Stay

There are plenty of options available online. However, I recommend you to find a hotel in advance in old Bhubaneswar as it is closer to the airport and popular attractions.

Breakfast

Old Bhubaneswar has an abundance of tea stalls selling good South Indian food. After you check-in, head to any of the tea stalls nearby and ask for a crispy Dosa with piping hot sambar. It will charge you up for the day.

Sightseeing

Dhauligiri is a Shanti Stupa resting atop the Dhauli hill, where emperor Ashoka fought the battle of Kalinga. A peaceful sight with a beautiful view of the Daya river. On the way back to the city, stop by Rajarani Temple to admire its sculptures and carvings.

Lunch

Stop by the Odisha Hotel at Lewis Road for an authentic Odia lunch. Grab a thali to save time. Plus, it would have all the famous dishes in one place.

Sightseeing

Post lunch, head to Lingaraj Temple, one of the famous spots for sightseeing. The temple’s architecture is stunning and takes its inspiration from the Kalinga architecture. Keep your belongings in your car before heading to this place, as they don’t allow electronic devices inside the premises. If you are coming by local transport, keep your stuff in the locker room next to the temple complex. On your way to the museum, stop by Manikarnikeswara ghat to witness the beauty of the Bindu Sagar temple sitting amidst the lake. The state museum is where you dig into the history, craft, culture and heritage of Odisha. The museum closes at 5 p.m and might take up to 2 hours to see entirely.

Dinner

End your day hogging on streets food at Unit I & II market. Enjoy the countless options available that will surely tingle your taste buds. Head to the hotel for a good night’s sleep.

Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel

Start the day with Aloo tarkari and Puri (Luchi) at your hotel. Pack up and check out from the hotel before starting your adventure. You can carry your luggage with you or else you can leave them at the hotel.

Sightseeing

A visit to the Nandankanan Zoological Park is a must when in Bhubaneswar. Located amidst the lush Chandaka forest, the park is home to approximately 1660 species. While you’re here, don’t forget to halt by the picturesque Kanji lake to get snapped!

Lunch

It’s time to grab a quick lunch. I recommend stopping by Shradhanjali Restaurant OTDC. The restaurant is inside the zoo premises that would save the time and hassle of finding one. Moreover, they have a buffet option that only costs 200 INR. 

Sightseeing

End your day with a dose of history at the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves. This site is a ‘must-see’ in the list of Archaeological Survey of India. The caves are an abode of beautiful Jain sculptures and monasteries. Make sure to book a late evening flight so that you cover this site on time.

Fly back home or head to the beach city

You can say your goodbyes and head home. Alternatively, you can extend the trip for three more days and tour the Golden triangle. The choice is yours!