5 Places to Explore in Bhubaneshwar in 2022

The capital city of Orissa, Bhubaneshwar is considered by many to be a sacred place, said to have existed even during the time of Mahabharata. Even archaeological evidence proves that various monuments have existed in the area for millennia. No wonder why history enthusiasts book their Delhi to BBSR flight just so they can see it firsthand. Still, there are some amazing places to visit here that you just can't miss if you're planning a trip in 2022. 

Here is a list of the top 5 places that you must explore in Bhubaneshwar in 2022: 

1. Hirakud Dam

The Hirakud Dam is situated on the Mahanadi river and is the reason for the biggest artificial water reservoir in India. Its scale is stunning, almost as much as the views from the top of the two minarets that are located on either end of this 4.8-Kilometre engineering marvel. One is named after Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and the other is named after Mahatma Gandhi. These are the perfect spots to click some great shots before you board your BBSR to Delhi flight back home. 

2. Rajarani Temple

A place of worship that was constructed in the 11^th century, the Rajarani Temple is famous for its intricate carvings. There are various figures of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati all around the temple that bring about the best of its unique aesthetics. Many historians believe that the architecture of the Rajarani Temple is what inspired the majority of temples in Central India. That is why the Archaeological Survey of India takes great interest in preserving this site and, once you visit, you’ll realize that it’s worth it. 

3. Bindu Sarovara

Also known as the Bindu Sagar Lake, this large reservoir is strongly associated with Lord Shiva and is the perfect picnic spot in the area. The legend goes that Lord Shiva collected water in this lake by collecting water from all the holy places to quench the thirst of Goddess Parvati. Due to its sanctity, there are various shrines all around the lake and you could often find rituals taking place across the banks. 

4. Dhauli Hill

Dhauli Hill is not just a place for some serene landscapes, this is the site where the ancient Kalinga War took place. This is where Lord Ashoka looked upon the destruction of the war, dedicating the rest of his life to non-violence and the teachings of Buddhism. One of the main attractions of Dhauli Hill is the rock-cut statue of an elephant that dates from the period of that fateful conflict. On the other hand, symbolizing peace is a Shanti Stupa that was constructed in the 1970s by two monks, one Japanese and the other a Kalinga Nippon. 

5. Parasurameswara Temple

The Parasurameswara Temple is considered one of the oldest temples in India. The exact time when it was constructed is still debated among the archaeological community, although most agree that it was built between the 6^th and 7^th centuries AD. Come up close to the walls of this magnificent temple and you might observe the attention to detail that is remarkable considering the builders did it all by hand tools. 

And that concludes the list of locations that travelers can explore before they go back home on the Bhubaneshwar to Delhi flights. Are there some historic places of worship in your town? Tell about them in the comments section below.