Begin your romantic honeymoon by immersing yourselves in the rich history and culture of Bhubaneswar. In the morning, visit the majestic Lingaraj Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and marvel at its intricate architectural details. Afterward, head to the nearby Mukteshwar Temple, known for its beautiful stone carvings and serene ambiance. For lunch, savor authentic Odia cuisine at a local restaurant.
Local Odia Restaurant: Estimated cost - INR 800-1000 (for two), Time spent - 1 hour
In the afternoon, escape the heat by exploring the Odisha State Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of art and artifacts showcasing the region's history. As the evening sets in, take a romantic stroll through the tranquil Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens, known for its lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
Odisha State Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10 (entrance fee), Time spent - 2 hours
The Alley Cafe is a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Zaika Restaurant is a popular lunch spot offering a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Pal Heights is an upscale dinner restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and delectable multi-cuisine menu. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Monday, October 2: Discovering Bhubaneswar's Heritage
Embark on a day filled with architectural wonders and cultural experiences. Start your morning with a visit to the Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves, ancient Jain rock-cut shelters that offer a glimpse into the city's past. Enjoy a serene picnic lunch amidst nature at Dhauli Hill, where you can also admire the grand Shanti Stupa.
Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves: Estimated cost - INR 15 (entrance fee), Time spent - 2 hours
Dhauli Hill and Shanti Stupa: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Coffee Day is a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious coffee and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Dalma is a local restaurant serving authentic Odia cuisine for lunch. Their thali meals are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
The Zaika is a fine dining restaurant offering a wide range of Indian and international cuisines for dinner. They are known for their elegant ambiance and sumptuous dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
Head to Tanka Sabji Mandap for breakfast, a local restaurant known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out Rajmahal Restaurant, which offers a variety of authentic Odia dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
End your day with dinner at The Zaika, a fine dining restaurant known for its fusion cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
In the afternoon, explore the exquisite Rajarani Temple, famous for its intricate carvings and sculptural beauty. Afterward, indulge in some retail therapy at Ekamra Haat, a traditional crafts market where you can find unique souvenirs and handcrafted items.
Ekamra Haat: Estimated cost - Free (shopping expenses vary), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique off the beaten path experience, consider visiting the beautiful Nandankanan Zoological Park, located just outside Bhubaneswar. This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including white tigers and Indian pangolins. Another local favorite is the Kalinga Stadium, where you can catch exciting sporting events or simply enjoy a leisurely walk around the stadium. These hidden gems offer a chance to appreciate the natural beauty and sporting spirit of Bhubaneswar.