Weird & Unusual Attractions in Bhubaneshwar, India

Bhubaneshwar, India, Bhubaneshwar, Unique & Fun, Weird & Unusual Attractions

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