Visiting the Soul of India

Odisha, the land of temples and beaches, is a treasure trove of cultural and natural wonders. With a rich history dating back to ancient times, this eastern Indian state offers a plethora of sights and experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler. Join me as I take you on a journey through two of Odisha's most popular destinations - Puri and Bhubaneswar.

Day 1: Tue, 24th evening - Bengaluru to Bhubaneswar to Puri

After a long and tiring day at work, I boarded my flight from Bengaluru to Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. As I arrived at the airport, I was greeted by the warm and welcoming locals who guided me to my cab. We embarked on our journey towards Puri, which is located about 60 kilometers away from Bhubaneswar. The scenic route was dotted with lush green fields, coconut groves, and small villages, giving me a glimpse of the rural life of Odisha.

Day 2: Wed, 25th - Puri, Konark, Ramchandi beach, Puri

My first day in Puri was all about exploring the natural wonders of the region. The day started with a visit to the the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of ancient Indian architecture. The temple, dedicated to the sun god, is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various aspects of Hindu mythology. I was amazed by the grandeur and beauty of the temple, which stood tall even after centuries of existence.

After a quick lunch, I headed to Ramchandi beach, a secluded and serene beach located about 10 kilometers from Konark. The beach was surrounded by lush green forests and hills, and the water was crystal clear. I spent some time relaxing on the beach, taking in the stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. Later in the evening, visited the world renowned Jagannath Temple.

Day 3: Thur, 26th - Puri, Chilka Lake, Puri

On my third day in Puri, I decided to explore the famous Chilka Lake, the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia. The lake is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, dolphins, and various species of fish. I took a boat ride across the lake, admiring the stunning views of the surrounding hills and islands.

Day 4: Fri, 27th - Puri to Bhubaneshwar

As I bid farewell to Puri, I headed towards Bhubaneswar, where I planned to spend the next two days exploring the city's rich cultural heritage. On the way, I made a stop at Raghurajpur artisan village, a small hamlet known for its traditional Pattachitra paintings and handicrafts. I picked up a few souvenirs for my friends and family back home.

Next, I visited Pipli, a small town famous for its vibrant applique work. The colorful fabrics and designs were a feast for the eyes, and I couldn't resist buying a few pieces for myself.

After that, we visited the Dhauli Pagoda, a Buddhist monument that is believed to mark the site where Emperor Ashoka renounced violence and embraced Buddhism. The white stupa is set in a beautiful park with manicured lawns, and we enjoyed walking around the tranquil surroundings.

We then proceeded to Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, where we visited several ancient temples that are known for their exquisite architecture. We visited the Lingaraj, Mukteswar, Persurameswar, Rajarani, Khandagiri & Udayagiri Jain caves, and each one was more breathtaking than the other. We were amazed by the intricate carvings on the temples, the beautiful sculptures, and the peaceful surroundings.

Day 5 :Sat, 28th - Bhubaneshwar Diamond Triangle:

We visited the Bhubaneshwar Diamond Triangle, a group of three temples located in the city. The temples are known for their unique architecture and intricate carvings, and we were amazed by the level of detail in the stone sculptures.

The first temple we visited was the Mukteswara Temple, which is known for its beautiful sculptures of gods and goddesses. We were impressed by the intricate carvings on the temple walls, which depicted scenes from Hindu mythology.

Next, we visited the Rajarani Temple, which is famous for its erotic sculptures. The temple is believed to have been built in the 11th century, and we were amazed by the level of detail in the sculptures, which were incredibly lifelike.

Finally, we visited the Lingaraj Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in Bhubaneshwar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and we were amazed by the size and scale of the structure. The temple is surrounded by a large wall, and the main shrine is topped with a towering spire that is visible from a distance.

Day 6: Sun, 29th - Bhubaneswar zoo and free time:

On the final day of our trip, we visited the Bhubaneswar zoo, which is home to a variety of animals and birds. We saw tigers, lions, elephants, and many other species, and we were impressed by the care and attention given to the animals.

After spending some time at the zoo, we had some free time to explore the city on our own. We visited some local markets and shops, tried some local cuisine, and soaked in the vibrant culture of Bhubaneshwar.

In the evening, we caught our flight to Bangalore, feeling grateful for the incredible experiences we had in Odisha. It was truly a trip that we will cherish for a long time to come.

Some photos below,