BHUBANESHVAR, THE CAPITAL CITY OF ORISSA

This capital city, which boasts the name of  ‘the city of temples’, deserves more than a fast rush into museums!  In fact, its picturesque old town revolves around its cerimonial tank,  Bingu Sagar, where you can breath the holy atmosphere of silence, contemplating young people bathing, fishing and… taking selfies! The walk around the lake includes a visit to the new and very well kept bothanical garden which somehow connects the most beautiful temples of the city.  

The entry to the most important one, Lingaraj Mandir – almost 1500 years old and dedicated to Lord Shiva, is forbidden to foreigners, but it can be admired from the top of a terrace, possibly in the sunset. From this temple you can easily walk to Mukteswar Mandir, heading to Bingu Sagar and taking left around the tank. Its small but precious 10th century shrine is almost an icon for the city for its intricate carvings. Besides, you can enter the place and enjoy its beauty and pleasant atmosphere. Don’t be shy to take pics of beautifully dressed Indian girls because you will have soon to reciprocate: Indian people are very friendly, gentle and are fascinated by western culture.

From the new city (railway station) we got there by auto-risho for 80R, 1€.

The new city which is now still in the dust, will soon look like any other capital cities in fact it already boasts adveniristic buildings and megastores.

In the city outskirt, on two twin hills, we reach Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves (by bus with about 30-40 minutes ride), very popular amond the people of the city who spend their Sundays picnicking there. The entrance to  Khandagiri is free of charge but this site offers just a hint of what you can admire on its twin hill: Udayagiri (300R) is made up of fabulous engraved caves with shapes of dieties, wild animals and daily life. It is a sort of trogloditic monastery built by Gianist monks aroun the I century b.C.  Absolutely not to miss.

Among its museums we choose to visit the Museum of Tribal Art & Crafts  so that to have an insight of the tribal culture we are here to investigate. The museum is actually interesting because it gives an idea of the main features of the different tribes. I wish I could come back here again after my direct approach to the tribal areas!   

Mukteswar Mandir