Puri , the city of temples. Jagannath temple is an important pilgrimage destination for many Hindus. The temple is famous for Rath Yatra which happens once in a year. As usual, the temple was crowded with devotees from different corners but somehow we got darshan.
Our next destination was Konark Sun Temple which is in the shape of gigantic chariot,having elaborately carved stone wheels drawn by seven horses carrying the Sun God.
A major part of the structure is ruined. We can see the temple being under construction.The temple is a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Nata Madapa
The temple follows the traditional style of Kalinga Architecture and carefully oriented towards the east so that the first rays of sunrise strikes the principal entrance.The temple is built from Khondalite rocks.
The wheels of the temple are sundials which can be used to calculate time accurately to a minute including day and night
Konark Sun Temple - Back View
Our last destination of the day ended with beautiful place named Dhauli Hill.The whole city of Bhubaneshwar can be seen from the top of the hill.The place is also known for bearing the grand Shanti Stupa or Peace Pagoda.
Dhauli
The next day we started our day by visiting Lingaraja temple which is the largest temple in Bhubaneshwar. It is maintained by the Temple Trust Board and the Archaeological survey of India(ASI). The architecture of the temple was speechless and marvelous.We couldn't even take a single photo as camera,cellphone inside the temple is prohibited.
Our next journey was to Mukteshvara Temple build in 950 A.D. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and being considered one of significant temple of Bhubaneshwar.
Mukteshvara Temple
Raja Rani temple is one of the most beautiful temple in Bhubaneshwar. The temple is covered by a beautiful garden and well maintained by ASI.
RajaRani Temple
Our next destination was NandanKanan Zoological Park, the famous zoo in Odisha. One can visit the zoo by walk or by safari. The guides are available to guide through all the places All types of animals and birds can be seen. The best thing is that each and every animal has been given a name by small kids and school children. Also, they celebrate the birthday and naming ceremony of the animals.
Sambar deer : State animal of Odisha
Our last destination was UdhayaGiri-Khandagiri which are situated on two adjacent hills. They have number of finely carved caves. The view from top of the hill was awesome.
Udhayagiri Caves
ISKON
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