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Hidden Gems of Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar’s ancient landscape is defined by 11th-century Kalinga architecture and 1st-century BCE rock-cut excavations. This collection features the monumental Lingaraj Temple and the twin hills of Udayagiri and Khandagiri, which house historic Jain monastic cells and inscriptions. The list also includes sacred ritual tanks like Papanashini and Devi Padahara, alongside Mausima Temple, a key site in the city’s annual Rath Yatra traditions.

Satit Hotrakitya / CC-BY-SA

A

Lord Lingaraj Temple

An 11th-century Hindu temple showcasing the pinnacle of Kalinga architecture. The 55-meter-tall central tower is dedicated to Harihara, a combined form of Shiva and Vishnu, and sits within a complex of over 50 smaller shrines.

B

Khandagiri

A hill containing 15 Jain rock-cut caves dating to the 1st century BCE. It is known for the Ananta Gumpha, which features ornate carvings of elephants, women, and floral motifs used by ancient monks.

C

Udayagiri

This site features 18 caves, including the double-story Rani Gumpha and the Hathigumpha. The latter contains the significant 17-line Brahmi inscription detailing the reign of King Kharavela of the Mahameghavahana dynasty.

D

Mausima Temple

A small temple dedicated to Goddess Ardhasani, the aunt of Lord Jagannath. It is a central stop during the annual Rath Yatra festival, where the deities are offered traditional Poda Pitha.

E

Papanashini Pond

A sacred water tank located near the Lingaraj Temple complex. It is surrounded by several small shrines and has historically served as a site for ritual purification and religious ceremonies.

F