Explore Bhubaneswar & Odisha
Discover the rich cultural heritage, spiritual landmarks, and natural beauty surrounding the conference venue
About Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is known as the "Temple City of India" with over 500 temples. It beautifully blends ancient heritage with modern infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for both conference attendees and tourists. Take some time to explore these magnificent attractions during your visit to ESIC-2027.
Must-Visit Attractions
Lingaraj Temple
12 km from KIIT | 25 minutes drive
The Lingaraj Temple is a magnificent 11th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It stands as a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture with its towering 55-meter spire (deul). This sacred shrine is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bhubaneswar.
Entry: Free
Timings: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Best Time: Early morning
Note: Non-Hindus not allowed inside
Photography: Allowed outside
Specialty: Kalinga architecture
Konark Sun Temple
65 km from KIIT | 1.5 hours drive
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century architectural marvel designed as a giant chariot of the Sun God with 24 intricately carved wheels. Built by King Narasimhadeva I, it's one of India's most stunning temples and a symbol of Odisha's golden age.
Entry: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreigners)
Timings: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Best Time: Sunrise or sunset
Status: UNESCO World Heritage
Photography: Allowed (₹25 extra)
Specialty: Stone chariot design
Puri Jagannath Temple & Beach
60 km from KIIT | 1.5 hours drive
One of the four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites, the Jagannath Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. The temple is famous for its annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival). Puri also boasts beautiful golden beaches, perfect for a relaxing evening by the Bay of Bengal.
Entry: Free (Temple)
Timings: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Beach: Accessible 24/7
Note: Only Hindus allowed in temple
Prasad: Famous Mahaprasad
Specialty: Char Dham pilgrimage
Dhauli Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa)
18 km from KIIT | 30 minutes drive
Located on Dhauli Hills, this white peace pagoda marks the site of the historic Kalinga War (261 BCE) where Emperor Ashoka renounced violence and embraced Buddhism. The pagoda offers panoramic views and houses beautiful Buddhist sculptures. Rock edicts of Ashoka are carved nearby.
Entry: Free
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best Time: Sunset
Historical: Kalinga War site
Photography: Excellent views
Specialty: Ashoka's rock edicts
Nandankanan Zoological Park
22 km from KIIT | 40 minutes drive
Meaning "The Garden of Heaven", Nandankanan is India's first zoo to join World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Famous for its white tigers, it houses over 1600 animals of 166 species in a sprawling 437-hectare forest. Features include a botanical garden, safari park, and ropeway.
Entry: ₹60 (Adults), ₹20 (Children)
Timings: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Closed: Monday
Famous For: White tigers
Safari: Available (extra charge)
Photography: ₹50 (Camera)
Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves
8 km from KIIT | 20 minutes drive
Ancient rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE, carved by Jain monks. The twin hills feature 33 caves with intricate carvings depicting Jain mythology, animals, and daily life of ancient times. Rani Gumpha (Queen's Cave) is the most elaborate with detailed sculptures.
Entry: Free
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Best Time: Morning or evening
Period: 2nd century BCE
Activity: Light trekking
Famous: Rani Gumpha cave
Other Notable Attractions
Odisha State Museum
8 km | 20 min
Established in 1932, showcasing Odisha's rich cultural heritage with archaeological findings, palm-leaf manuscripts, traditional weapons, and tribal artifacts.
Timings: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Closed: Monday
Entry: ₹20
Rajarani Temple
10 km | 25 min
11th-century temple known as "Love Temple" for its erotic sculptures. Famous for exquisite carvings and yellow-red sandstone called Rajarani.
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Entry: ₹25 (Indians)
Famous: Intricate sculptures
Chilika Lake
120 km | 2.5 hours
Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, a paradise for migratory birds and dolphins. A Ramsar site with unique ecosystem and beautiful sunsets.
Best Season: Nov - Feb
Activity: Boat rides available
Famous: Irrawaddy dolphins
Chandaka Sanctuary
15 km | 30 min
Dense forest sanctuary home to elephants, leopards, and diverse flora. Perfect for nature walks and wildlife photography enthusiasts.
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹30 per person
Best For: Nature lovers
Ekamra Haat
12 km | 25 min
Vibrant handicrafts market showcasing Odisha's traditional arts - Pattachitra paintings, stone carvings, tribal jewelry, and handloom textiles.
Timings: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Best For: Shopping souvenirs
Specialty: Odisha handicrafts
Biju Patnaik Park
5 km | 15 min
Well-maintained urban park with Japanese garden, musical fountains, and children's play area. Ideal for evening relaxation and family outings.
Timings: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹20
Features: Musical fountain
Travel Tips for Visitors
Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Pleasant weather (15-30°C)
- February: Perfect for conference and sightseeing
- Avoid: May-June (very hot, 40°C+)
- Monsoon: July-September (heavy rainfall)
What to Wear
- February: Light cotton clothes, light jacket for evenings
- Temples: Modest clothing (cover shoulders & knees)
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Important Notes
- Most temples require removing footwear
- Photography may be restricted in temples
- Hire guides for historical sites (₹200-500)
- Book cabs in advance for weekend trips
- Carry water bottle and stay hydrated
Organized Tours Available
Looking for hassle-free sightseeing? Many local tour operators offer day trips covering multiple attractions:
- Golden Triangle Tour: Bhubaneswar - Puri - Konark (Full day)
- Temple Tour: Lingaraj, Mukteshwar, Rajarani, Parasurameswara
- Wildlife Tour: Nandankanan Zoo + Chandaka Sanctuary
- Heritage Tour: Udayagiri Caves + Dhauli + Rock Edicts
Prices range from ₹1,500 to ₹3,500 per person depending on group size and inclusions.
Must-Try Local Cuisine
Dalma
Traditional lentil curry with vegetables and spices
Chingudi Jhola
Spicy prawn curry, a coastal Odisha specialty
Chhena Poda
Baked cottage cheese dessert with caramel flavor
Pakhala Bhata
Fermented rice dish, perfect for hot weather
Quick Reference Guide
| Attraction | Distance | Time Required | Entry Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lingaraj Temple | 12 km | 2-3 hours | Free | Religious, Architecture |
| Konark Sun Temple | 65 km | Half day | ₹40 / ₹600 | Heritage, Photography |
| Puri (Jagannath Temple) | 60 km | Full day | Free | Pilgrimage, Beach |
| Dhauli Peace Pagoda | 18 km | 1-2 hours | Free | Peace, History |
| Nandankanan Zoo | 22 km | 4-5 hours | ₹60 / ₹20 | Wildlife, Family |
| Udayagiri Caves | 8 km | 2-3 hours | Free | History, Archaeology |
| Chilika Lake | 120 km | Full day | Boat charges vary | Nature, Bird Watching |
Need Help Planning Your Visit?
Our organizing committee can assist you with travel recommendations and local tour arrangements