Bhubaneshwar Holidays

Bhubaneshwar, the state capital of Orissa has a history spanning some 2000 years and a great selection of temples (over 500) that date from 8th to the 13th century AD, in the south of the city. By far the largest concentration are clustered around the Bindu Sagar, a large tank said to contain water from every holy stream and river in India and where thousands of pilgrims come to wash away their sins.

Perhaps the greatest temple is Lingaraj Mandir. Although closed to non-Hindus, there is a viewing platform that allows visitors to view. In addition, there is the Orissa State Museum, which boasts a rich collection of antiquities and curios plus a display of Orissan tribal anthropology. Just outside of the city are the Udaigiri and Khandagiri Caves.

Beyond Bhubaneshwar is Konark, home of the UNESCO World Heritage listed 13th century Sun temple. Symbolising the majestic stride of the Sun god, the entire temple was conceived and designed in the form of a huge chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on 12 pairs of extraordinarily decorated wheels. Two lions guard the entrance, crushing war elephants underfoot. A flight of steps leads to the main entrance. At the entrance of the temple is a Nata Mandir. This is where the temple dancers used to perform dances in homage to the Sun god.