Start your trip by exploring the ancient temples of Bhubaneswar. In the morning, visit the Lingaraj Temple, a magnificent 11th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at its intricate carvings and architectural grandeur. In the afternoon, head to the Nandankanan Zoological Park, home to a wide variety of exotic animals and birds. Spend the evening at Ekamra Haat, a vibrant open-air market showcasing traditional arts, crafts, and cuisine.
Ashoka Bakery: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Ashoka Bakery, known for its mouthwatering pastries and fresh bread. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
The Kitchen: For a fulfilling lunch, head to The Kitchen which offers a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Truptee: Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Truptee, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its authentic Odia cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Thursday, August 31:
Embark on a historical journey by exploring the ancient caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri. In the morning, visit Udayagiri Caves, a complex of 18 rock-cut caves adorned with beautiful sculptures and inscriptions. Afterward, head to Khandagiri Caves, consisting of 15 caves with intricate carvings and Jain rock-cut shelters. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of Dhauli Giri, a hilltop famous for its ancient rock edicts and the Shanti Stupa.
Udayagiri Caves: Estimated cost - INR 15 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Khandagiri Caves: Estimated cost - INR 15 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
A popular choice for breakfast in Bhubaneswar is The Bake Shop, known for its freshly baked pastries and bread. Their delicious breakfast options include croissants, muffins, and sandwiches. The average cost for a breakfast here is about ₹200 per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head to Truptee Restaurant. This vegetarian restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Odia dishes like Dalma, Pakhala, and Pithas. The average cost for a lunch here is about ₹300 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, try out Dalma Restaurant. This restaurant specializes in Odia cuisine, serving authentic dishes like Macha Besara (spicy fish curry) and Prawn Malai Curry. The average cost for a dinner here is about ₹500 per person.
Friday, September 1:
Immerse yourself in the religious heritage of Bhubaneswar. Start your day by visiting the Mukteshwar Temple, known for its exquisite architecture and intricate stone carvings. In the afternoon, explore the Rajarani Temple, famous for its unique sculptural art and the absence of any religious deity. End your day with a visit to the Odisha State Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, and artifacts.
Rajarani Temple: Estimated cost - INR 15 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Odisha State Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Taste Bhubaneswar
A popular breakfast spot in the heart of Bhubaneswar offering a diverse menu of traditional Odia breakfast items such as chhena poda, chhena gaja, and khaja. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Lunch: Zaffran
A well-known restaurant serving aromatic and flavorful Mughlai cuisine. Indulge in delicious biryanis, kebabs, and curries. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: The Zaika
Experience the rich flavors of North Indian cuisine at this fine dining restaurant. From butter chicken to kebabs, the menu offers a wide range of delectable options. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, September 2:
Discover the natural beauty of Bhubaneswar by visiting the Nandankanan Biological Park. Start your morning with a thrilling safari through the park to spot tigers, lions, and other wildlife. Afterward, explore the Botanical Garden, housing a diverse collection of rare plants and trees. Spend the evening at the Regional Science Centre, a fun and interactive museum that offers insights into various scientific phenomena.
Nandankanan Biological Park: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Botanical Garden: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Regional Science Centre: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Sip and Bite Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Sip and Bite Cafe, known for its wide range of fresh bakery items and refreshing beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Truptee Restaurant: For a scrumptious lunch, head to Truptee Restaurant, offering authentic Odiya cuisine. Try their mouthwatering thali that includes a variety of traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Dalma: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Dalma, a popular restaurant that specializes in traditional Odiya cuisine. Don't miss their signature dalma dish, made with lentils and vegetables. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, September 3:
Experience the rich art and culture of Bhubaneswar. In the morning, visit the Odisha Crafts Museum, showcasing a wide range of traditional handicrafts and artworks. Explore the Museum of Tribal Arts and Artifacts in the afternoon to learn about the tribal heritage of Odisha. End your day with a visit to the Kala Bhoomi Crafts Village, where you can witness artisans working on various crafts.
Odisha Crafts Museum: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Museum of Tribal Arts and Artifacts: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Kala Bhoomi Crafts Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A great breakfast option near Bhubaneswar is The Grand Trunk Road, known for its delicious Indian and Continental breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to Dalma, a popular restaurant serving authentic Odia cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Dine at Hare Krishna Restaurant for a delectable dinner experience. This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes and the average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, September 4:
Explore the architectural wonders of Bhubaneswar. Start your day with a visit to the Odisha State Secretariat, an imposing building with unique architectural features. In the afternoon, head to the Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the Governor of Odisha, known for its beautiful gardens and colonial-style architecture. Spend the evening at the Utkal Mandap, an open-air auditorium that hosts various cultural events and performances.
Odisha State Secretariat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Hindusthan International. This restaurant offers a wide range of options including Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Dalma Restaurant, a popular choice for authentic Odia cuisine. Their thali meals are a must-try, featuring a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Zaika. This restaurant offers a fusion of Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisines. Don't miss their signature dishes like Butter Chicken and Fried Rice. Average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
Tuesday, September 5:
On your last day, visit the iconic Kalinga Stadium, a multipurpose stadium known for hosting various sports events. Take a tour of the stadium and relish the vibrant sports atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to the Ekamra Van, a beautiful nature park with lush greenery and serene surroundings. Spend your evening at the Indira Gandhi Park, a popular recreational spot with well-manicured gardens and walking trails.
For breakfast, try The Breakfast Club, a trendy cafe with a range of options including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Swadisht, a popular vegetarian restaurant with a wide variety of regional Indian dishes like thali and dosa. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For dinner, visit The Grand Feast, a fine dining restaurant known for its delicious seafood and elegant ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, don't miss the Odissi Research Centre, where you can witness traditional Odissi dance performances and learn about the history and evolution of this classical dance form. Another local favorite is the Pathani Samanta Planetarium, offering immersive shows about astronomy and space exploration. Lastly, visit the Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis with a vast collection of rare plant species.