In And Around Konark
In And Around Konark
Khandagiri: and Udayagiri
The twin hills of Kumargiri known as Udayagiri and Khadagiri enclose rock cut caves with were built for Jain monks around 1st - 2nd century B.C. the lithic records of Khareveala engraved in the Hathigumpha (elephant cave) is a wonderful specimen of Pali records found in India. The caves are 8 kms away from Bhubaneswar.
Dhauli
Just 8 kms away from Bhubaneswar lies Dhauli - site of the famous Kalinga war which made Asika guilt ridden and as a result he converted to Budhims. Important Rock - Edicts have been discovered here which gives us an insight into its Historical past. Dhauli is aso famous for a Buddhist peace Pagoda know as Santi Stupa which was built in the early seventies by the Japan Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha. There is an old temple of Lord Dhavaleshwar which stands on the hill-to top.
Nandan Kanan
20 kms away from Bhubaneswar is located this Biological Park where animals are kept in their natural habitat. A lake divides the zoo from the Botanical garden. Brilliantly coloured animals and birds are among the attractions. To name a few, clouded leopards, panthers, Gharials and white Tigers. The Botanical garden on the other side is known for its collection of plants both decorative and medicinal. It is connected to an efficient Bus-service.
Barunai
32 kms from Bhubaneswar and 4 kms from Khurda, Barunai is a popular spot for Tourists. Goddess Baruani is the Chief deity of this area. Bueautiful woods, shadowy Mango groves with graceful spring called ‘Swarga Ganga’ add to the chamrms of Baruani. An ideal place for picnickers, Baruani is well connected by Bus and Train services. Taxis and Auto-rickshaws also ply to carry Tourists from Bhubaneswar.
Kantilo
Located on the right bank of the Mahanadi, Kantilo is famous for the shrine of Lord Nilamadhaba one the top of twin hills surrounded by loush green forests. Lord Nilamadhaba was the earlier form of Lord Jagnanath of Pur. A perennaial stream of holy water flows from the feet of the Diety. One of the more popular picnic spots in Orissa it is 100 kms from Bhubaneswar and 70 kms from Khurda. Regular Bus services ply from Khurda and Bhubaneswar.
Atri
Arti which is 42 kms from Bhubaneswar and 14 kms from Khurda is set amidst a verdant green landscape which soothes the eyes of the visitors. A holy place, it is famous for the shrine of Hatakeswar (2) A bath in the spring water can cure skin diseases. These is a sulphur spring with restorative and regenerative powers.
Bhusandpur
On the way to Balugaon along NH 5 (National Highway-5) from Bhubaneswar, one can visit the shrine of Ugratara at Bhusandpur (65 kms). The four armed Chamunda, known as Ugratara was the family deity of the Gajapati kings of Orissa. A lovely picnic spot, Bhusandpur is surrounded by mango groves at the side of a hillock and a gurgling steam. This place is connected by good motorable roads.
Chilika
The largest brackish water lake in Asia, encompassing an area of over, 1,100 sq kms attracts thousands of visistors especially during winter. An ideal palce for fishing, bird watching and boating, Chilika is home to the many migratory birds who flock in huge numbers in winter. Birds from Siberia are a major tourist attraction. The tranquil blue waters which can change colour and interestingly shaped Island all combine make Chilika an out of the world experience.
The nearest - Airport is at Bhubaneswar. The nearest Railway station is at Balugaon and Rambha on S.E. Railway with connections to Calcutta, Puri, Madras and Hyderabad. The NH-5 road touches Chilika at Balugaon, Barkul and Rambha.
Puri
Is at once identified with Lrod Jagnnath and his Temple which is the centrifugal point in the psyche of people of Orissa. A treasure trove of art, craft and sculpture, Puri also has one of the finest beaches an India. With in increase in population and development, Puri is now a developing town which may soon become a city.
The Temple of Lord Jagannath built in the 12th century A.D. by Chodaganga Deva dominates the landscape for miles around. There are also a number of mathas or monasteries. Thee are other Temples like Gundicha, Loknath, Sunargouranga, Mahabir, Tota Gopinath and tanks like Narenda, Markandeya, Sweta Ganga which can also interest visitors.
The nearest - Airport is at Bhubanewsar 62 kms away. Puri is a railway terminus of the S.E. Railway having direct train services with Calcutta, New Delhi, Waltair, Tirupati and Bokaro. A good motorable road is connected to Bhubaneswar. Regular Bus services operate to the many places in the state.
Pipili
It lies on the Puri - Bhubaneswar Road and a road from Pipili goes to the village of Nimapara famous for “Poda Pitha” Pipili has a size-able Muslim population and is much known for its scintillating array of Applique work. Umbrellas, wall-hanging, lamp shades and clothes with that distinctive Pipili look are popular gifts in India and abroad.
Cuttack The former capital and one of the oldest towns in India has a rich and colorful history. The rivers Kathjodi and Mahanadi flow through it. With its thousands year old history, Cuttack is an important Business and cultural center. The nearest airport is at Bhubaneswar. It is well connected by Railways to major towns and cities of Northern, Eastern, Western and Southern India. It is also connected by motorable roads and has an efficient bus service.
Chandaka Forests
Chandaka is 20 kms away from Bhubaneswar and is connected by good motorable roads. Lush forests with a variety of Trees like Bamboo, Sal, Teak and others add to the beauty of the forests. Encompassing an area of 193 kms. Kheluachua, Patharpati and Ambilo are a few of the main geographical points of the sanctuary. Kumarikhuntia a man made reservoir is being developed as a heronry. The water-body pulls thusands of migratory birds around the year.
