Bhubneshwar on a Shoestring Budget

1. 8:00AM: Parasurameswara Temple
   20 minutes (7.5 km) from Biju Patnaik International Airport

   Intricately designed temple showcasing the richness of architecture in the ancient Kalinga region. Built-in 650 CE and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

2. 9:30AM: Mukteswara Temple
   15 minutes (3.5 km) from Parasurameswara Temple

   Known for its ornate carvings of the torana (arch) and the ardhapadma (half-lotus) motifs, this temple dates back to 900 CE and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

3. 11:00AM: Dhauli Hill and Shanti Stupa
   25 minutes (10 km) from Mukteswara Temple

   Dhauli Hill is believed to be the spot where Emperor Ashoka gave up war and took up Buddhism. The Shanti Stupa or Peace Pagoda was built as a symbol of peace and has stunning views of the surrounding area.

4. 1:00PM: Lunch at Lingaraj Lassi
   25 minutes (7 km) from Dhauli Hill and Shanti Stupa

   A street-side shop that is popular among locals and tourists for its delicious lassi and vegetarian samosas. Their yogurt-based drink is a must-try!

5. 2:00PM: Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
   15 minutes (5.5 km) from Lingaraj Lassi

   18 rock-cut caves that were created as residential cells for Jain sages. They date back to the 2nd century BCE and offer panoramic views of the city below.

6. 4:00PM: Rajarani Temple
   25 minutes (10 km) from Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

   A temple made of red and gold sandstone that is known for its sculptural embellishments, specifically the figures of women that adorn the exterior of the shrine.

7. 6:00PM: Regional Plant Resource Centre
   15 minutes (4 km) from Rajarani Temple

   A botanical garden and research center that is spread across 5 hectares. It has over 1,000 species of plants and trees, walking trails, and a butterfly garden.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Parasurameswara Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Mukteswara Temple (1.5 hours, Free)
• Dhauli Hill and Shanti Stupa (1.5 hours, Free)
• Lunch at Lingaraj Lassi (1 hour, INR 150 or USD 2)
• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves (1.5 hours, INR 15 or USD 0.20)
• Rajarani Temple (1 hour, INR 25 or USD 0.35)
• Regional Plant Resource Centre (1.5 hours, INR 20 or USD 0.28)

Total Estimated Costs: INR 210 or USD 3

Useful Tips

You can spend more time at any of the locations above if you like and try some local delicacies of Bhubneshwar, such as Dahibara, Aludum, and Chhena Poda, at various food stalls. If you have less time, you can skip visiting the Regional Plant Resource Centre.