Bhubaneswar,
the 'Cathedral City' was once the capital of an ancient kingdom.
Today this hustling centre for commerce and religious activity
is Orissa's modern capital. Having merged its intriguing past
so uniquely with its modern aspirations, it forms an integral
link in the Golden Triangle that incorporates the holy city of
Puri and Konark, for the tourists that flock to pay their homage
to the religious, cultural and natural wonders that abound here.
The striking features of the city are the numerous temples and
shrines that seem to be all around you. Bhubaneswar's skyline
is dominated by some of the most spectacular engineering and artistic
feats of its ancient heritage. The imposing spire of the Lingaraj
Temple, the quiet beauty of the Vishwa Shanti Stupa and the pink
transluscence of the Mahavira Jain Temple in nearby Khandagiri,
inspire feelings of wonder at their sheer beauty and their cross-cultural
permutations. These three alone offer an excellent insight into
the ancient cultural strength of Orissa and are well-worth exploring
at greater length.
At least four of Bhubaneswar's temples must be on the tourist's
agenda, to get a feel of the dynamic artistry and development
of their indigenous perfection.
The temples have after all stood testimony to the area's history,
which spans 25 centuries. The Lingaraj, the Parsurameswar, the
Mukteswar and the Rajarani temples are unique in themselves, not
only in their architectural beauty but also in the wonderful sculptures
which enhance their presence. An interesting variation figures
in the Vaital and Brahmeswar temples. Though the Lingaraj is closed
to non-Hindus, ic can be viewed from the viewing platform constructed
alongside.
The State Museum of Bhubaneswar offers an excellent selection
of archaeological artefacts, weapons and local arts and crafts
and insights into Orissa's natural and tribal history. The museum
has world's largest collection of palm-leaf paintings. The Tribal
Research Institute Museum with its authentic tribal dwellings,
created by the tribal craftsmen is a great place to get a bird's
eye view of the State's tribal heritage. The Regional Plant Resource
Centre (RPRC) has about 500 acres of plantations, tissue culture
and experimental laboratory and a huge lake where migratory birds
make their home. The two unique features of RPRC are its status
for housing the largest rose garden in the country (an area of
20 acres) and having the largest collection of cacti (550) in
Asia.
Bhubaneswar is a shopper's delight. Sarees woven by the master
weavers in silk and cotton are available in the private shops
and government emporia. You can also pick up all kinds of artefacts
and jewellery produced in different parts of the State. The I
landloom Weavers Co-operative is worth a visit. Bhubaneswar has
excellent air and rail linkages with most major cities in the
country.
