
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Bhubaneshwar, India
1. Parasurameswar Temple
An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with intricate carvings on its walls.
- Carving Uniqueness: Unusual carvings depict scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana
- Architectural Style: Unique amalgamation of Kalinga, Nagara, and Dravidan architectural styles
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar, dating back to the 7th century
2. Lingaraj Temple Tower
A towering structure inside the Lingaraj Temple complex that offers a panoramic city view.
- Tallest Structure: The tallest structure within Bhubaneswar, standing at approximately 180 feet
- Cityscape View: Offers a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the city from its summit
- Spiritual Significance: Symbolizes Lord Shiva, considered as one of the Pancha Bhüta (five elements) representing space
3. Mukteswara Temple
An intricately carved temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its Kalinga architecture.
- Carving Detail: Intricate carvings depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology and celestial bodies
- Architectural Style: A perfect example of Kalinga architectural style, characterized by its distinctly curved roof
- Historical Importance: Dated back to the 10th century and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
4. Raja Rani Temple
A unique temple dedicated to King and Queen deities, featuring intricate sandstone carvings.
- Gender Equality: One of the rare temples in India dedicated to a queen along with her husband
- Carving Artistry: Intricate sandstone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and celestial bodies
- Historical Significance: Dated back to the 12th century, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
5. Vaital Deul
A unique pyramid-shaped temple dedicated to Goddess Katakshya, featuring intricate carvings.
- Pyramidal Architecture: One of the few pyramid-shaped temples in India
- Carving Uniqueness: Intricate carvings depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology and celestial bodies
- Historical Importance: Dated back to the 8th century, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
6. Nandankanan Zoological Park
A unique zoo and botanical garden housing a wide variety of flora and fauna.
- Flora & Fauna Diversity: Home to over 2000 species of plants, 160 species of animals, and several endangered species
- Conservation Efforts: Dedicated to conservation, breeding, and rehabilitation programs for various wildlife species
- Recreational Facilities: Offers a variety of recreational facilities including safari rides, animal shows, and boating
7. Dhaulagiri Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves
A group of rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE, featuring Jain and Buddhist art.
- Historical Significance: Dated back to the 2nd century BCE, offering insights into ancient Jain and Buddhist culture
- Rock-Cut Architecture: Unique rock-cut architecture with intricate carvings of deities, celestial bodies, and various motifs
- Spiritual Significance: Many caves are dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras and Buddhist monks
8. Brahmeswar Temple
A temple featuring a unique architectural style with twelve towering shikharas.
- Architectural Style: Features twelve towering shikharas, representing the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
- Historical Importance: Dated back to the 10th century and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Carving Artistry: Intricate carvings depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology and celestial bodies
9. Ram Mandir
A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Ram, featuring intricate carvings and a unique architectural style.
- Carving Artistry: Intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana and various celestial bodies
- Architectural Style: Features a unique blend of Kalinga, Nagara, and Dravidan architectural styles
- Historical Significance: Dated back to the 12th century, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
10. Baramunda Snake Park and Turtle Sanctuary
A park dedicated to preserving and showcasing various snake species and turtles.
- Reptile Diversity: Home to over 50 species of snakes, including venomous ones, and a variety of turtles
- Conservation Efforts: Dedicated to the conservation and breeding programs for various snake and turtle species
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and workshops on snake behavior, conservation, and safety
11. Bhubaneswar Planetarium
A planetarium offering a unique opportunity to explore the universe from within Bhubaneswar.
- Cosmic Knowledge: Offers a variety of shows and exhibits on astronomy, space exploration, and the universe
- Educational Programs: Dedicated to promoting scientific understanding and interest in astronomy among visitors
- Interactive Displays: Features interactive displays, models, and simulations for a hands-on learning experience
12. Khandagiri Jain Temple Caves
A group of rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE, featuring intricate Jain carvings.
- Historical Significance: Dated back to the 2nd century BCE, offering insights into ancient Jain culture
- Rock-Cut Architecture: Unique rock-cut architecture with intricate carvings of deities and various motifs
- Spiritual Significance: Dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras and monks, showcasing their teachings and values
13. Mukteswara-Parasurameswar Trail
A scenic trail connecting the Mukteswara and Parasurameswar temples, showcasing beautiful architecture.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers a picturesque walk through lush greenery and beautiful architecture
- Architectural Diversity: Features the unique architectural styles of both Mukteswara and Parasurameswar temples
- Historical Significance: Connects two ancient temples, offering insights into Bhubaneswar's rich history
14. Lingaraj Temple Light & Sound Show
A mesmerizing light and sound show at the Lingaraj Temple complex.
- Cultural Presentation: Presents the history, mythology, and cultural significance of the Lingaraj Temple
- Visual & Auditory Experience: Features a captivating blend of lights, sounds, and narration to engage visitors
- Educational Value: Offers an engaging and informative experience about the temple's history and significance
15. Rajarani Temple
A unique temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, featuring intricate carvings and a unique architectural style.
- Carving Artistry: Intricate carvings depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology and celestial bodies
- Architectural Style: Features a unique architectural style with a distinctively curved roof
- Historical Significance: Dated back to the 10th century and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site