One of the fastest developing cities of Eastern India , Bhubaneswar has grown from a tranquil abode of officialdom to the present cosmopolitan ambience. Replete with historical monuments and ancient architectural wonders it has earned the reputation of being called the temple city of India.
 
Once upon a time it had more than 7000 temples. Time and vagaries of nature have consumed many leaving only about 700. Yet it stands out as the city boasting of temples bearing testimony to Orissan art. It has the famous Lingraj Temple -important because of it's fine art and structure. Also it is one of few places of worship where both Hari(Lord Vishnu) and Hara(Lord Shiva) are the principal deities. For lovers of art and architecture, Rajarani Temple is a feast for the eye. Various forms of human and events carved   in stone, with precision and delicacy, is a wonder and an example of the high quality of Orissan Art. Mukteswar temple nearby is equally eloquent.

Dhauli, on the bank of Daya river, a place which is witness to the famous Kalinga War between Ashoka and King of Kalinga. The devastation and huge loss of life in the war changed Ashoka to an apostle of peace. A Budhhist Shanti Stupa (raised by Japanese) attract tourists  everyday. A few kilometers towards the town are situated Khandgiri and Udaygiri caves where at different stages  Buddhists and Jains worshipped. Built by Kharvela, the famous king of Orissa around 300 BC, the caves have the famous inscriptions of Ashoka .The structures also showcase a dilapidated theatre hall. Visit to Bhubaneswar shall be incomplete without having a glimpse of Nandan Kanan, one of the best zoos in India. White Tiger safari offers a special attraction.

People interested in buying mementos will have ample choice. The applique of Pipli, Sambalpuri  sarees, garments, filigree ornaments, decoratives and stone idols are part of the choice.

Bhubaneswar is booming. It is exploding with population and activities-official and commercial. It is the IT hub of Orissa. Tourists have a great time with opportunity to visit the famous Black Pagoda at Konark, Chilka- the biggest brackish water lake in the world, house to large number of migratory birds in winter, and the pilgrimage centre of Puri. Bhubaneswar, Konark and Puri form the golden triangle of tourism which attracts foreign tourists in large numbers every year. November and December are the most pleasant months for touring Odisha(the present name of Orissa).  The people of  the state are polite, humble and extremely hospitable.