Discovering Bhubaneswar in One Day

1. 8:00 AM: Lingaraj Temple
   Located in the centre of the city, Lingaraj Temple, a Hindu holy place dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a must-visit attraction in Bhubaneswar. The temple complex with its magnificent architecture and intricate carvings and sculptures represents a fusion of Kalinga, Dravidian, and Nagara style of architecture. The reflection of the temple in a nearby tank adds to the temple's beauty.
   Estimated time spent: 1 hour
   Distance from the hotel: 6 km (15 minutes drive)
2. 9:30 AM: Odisha State Museum
   Learn about Odisha's rich cultural heritage at the Odisha State Museum. The museum showcases a wide range of art and artefacts, ranging from rare archaeological findings, to bronze-age tools, traditional musical instruments, palm-leaf manuscripts, and paintings. A visit to the museum helps understand the state's history deeply.
   Estimated time spent: 1.5 hours
   Distance from the Lingaraj Temple: 2.1 km (10 minutes drive)
3. 11:30 AM: Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
   Located just outside the city, Udayagiri and the Khandagiri caves are rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Visitors can explore the complex of 33 caves, including Jain and Buddhist temples, with intricate carvings and unique architectural features. Viewpoints from the caves offer breathtaking views of the city.
   Estimated time spent: 2 hours
   Distance from the Odisha State Museum: 9.9 km (30 minutes drive)
4. 2:00 PM: Raj Bhavan
   The Raj Bhavan, or Governor's House, is a stunning colonial building from the British era. Visit the gardens, designed with the famous Mughal style, watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, or have a guided tour of this historical building.
   Estimated time spent: 1 hour
   Distance from Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: 6 km (15 minutes drive)
5. 3:00 PM: Ekamra Haat
   Located near to the Governor's House, Ekamra Haat is an open-air handicrafts market. With traditional textiles, clothing, handicrafts, metalwork, and jewellery, the Ekamra Haat offers a distinct glimpse into Odisha's rich culture. It also houses eateries where visitors can taste local street foods.
   Estimated time spent: 1 hour
   Distance from Raj Bhavan: 1.5 km (5 minutes drive)
6. 4:00 PM: Mukteswara Temple
   Built-in the 10th century, Mukteswara Temple is a gem of Bhubaneswar's architecture. The temple is renowned for its unique sculptures, stone carvings, and intricate designs. Mukteswara Temple is a must-visit if you are interested in Hindu architecture and sculpture.
   Estimated time spent: 1 hour
   Distance from Ekamra Haat: 2.3 km (15 minutes drive)

Time and Costs Estimates

• Lingaraj Temple (1 hour, free)
• Odisha State Museum (1.5 hours, ₹20 for Indian tourists, ₹200 for foreign tourists)
• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves (2 hours, ₹10 for Indian tourists, ₹100 for foreign tourists)
• Raj Bhavan (1 hour, free)
• Ekamra Haat (1 hour, free entry, food prices vary)
• Mukteswara Temple (1 hour, ₹25)

Total Estimated Costs: ₹75 (Excluding food and transportation)

Useful Tips

If you have some extra time, you may want to visit other places like Nandankanan Zoological Park, Kalinga Stadium, or Dhauli Hill. If you have less time, consider visiting just the Lingraj Temple, Odisha State Museum, and Mukteswara Temple. Make sure to check the opening hours and ticket prices online before visiting. Taxis and rickshaws can be hired to get around, but agree on a fare before starting the journey. Buying souvenirs from Ekamra Haat can be a pleasure but bargain for the prices.