Hey, my beautiful people! As you all know, Bhubaneswar is famously known as the City of Temples. But beyond this, the city reveals a diverse tapestry of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. From lush green parks to serene waterfalls, and from ancient monuments to contemporary art, Bhubaneswar has something special to offer every kind of traveler. So, here I am, listing the top 8 photoshoot destinations you must visit if you’re traveling to Bhubaneswar. And if you’re a true Bhonsaria, you should definitely know these places.
1. Ananda Bana:
The reason I’m placing this first is that it’s likely a newly opened spot in Bhubaneswar and I find Ananda Bana to be a canvas of inspiration. Whether you’re capturing candid moments or writing heartfelt reflections, this forest offers great landscapes. It is more than just a park with a huge water fountain Infront of the park, a foot over bridge, wetlands, yoga pavilions, cycle tracks and food zones for all the nature enthusiasts, fitness seekers and those who seek solace away from the city’s hustle and bustle. This place spans in a whopping 89.05 acres located at K3A in Kalinga Nagar, on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar. Visit between 5am to 5pm and enjoy the Koraput coffee at the Mission Shakti outlet.
2. Ekamra Bana:
Ekamra Bana, also known as the Medicinal Plants Park, is a relaxing place located beside the western banks of Bindu Sagar Lake in Bhubaneswar. Often overlooked because of the famous Lingaraj Temple nearby, this garden has its own unique beauty. As a blogger, Ekamra Bana inspires me. The rustling leaves tell stories of resilience, and the sunlight filtering through branches paints a picture of tranquility. Capture candid moments or pen reflections. Ekamra Bana is not just a garden; it is a living canvas where nature and heritage intertwine. So, grab your camera, breathe in the fresh air, and let this hidden gem weave its spell on you. Visit during sunrise or sunset—the golden hues transform Ekamra Bana into a magical wonderland.
3. Jayadev Vatika:
It is probably the best outdoor park in Bhubaneswar for spending a couple of hours with Nature. Shrubs, plants and trees abound this rocky terrain. Superbly maintained indeed. Cars and bikes are allowed inside it with payment of extra entry fees. Good motorable roads inside the safari. Fantastic sitting arrangements made for the visitors. This park is situated in Khandagiri Bhubaneswar. Visit during the morning and afternoon as the golden light enhances the magic. Nearest bus stop is Baramunda (1km away).
4. Barunei Hill:
Barunei Hill is located in between Khurda & Jatani town on the national highway that connects Bhubaneswar with Chennai & Kolkata and is not that far from Bhubaneswar. Its popular designation for localities due to its religious & tourism importance that attracts many low spending tourists throughput the year apart from school & college students for occasional trekking. Great destination for your next Outdoor photoshoot.
5. Ekamra Kanan Botanical Garden:
Ekamra Kanan Botanical Garden, the largest park here, is considered one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the city with its meticulously landscaped gardens, rare plant collections, and serene ambience, it gradually started attracting tourists, both domestic and international. Over the years, it has evolved into a prominent destination for educational trips, picnics, and outdoor recreation. It takes about 21 minutes to travel the 7.2 km from Bhubaneswar Railway Station to Ekamra Kanan Park, but it takes about 18 minutes to travel the 7.4 km from Biju Patnaik International Airport to the park.
6.Dhauli Santi Stupa:
One of the popular landmarks of Odisha’s Buddhist heritage is Dhauli International Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa), located 8 km south on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar. The Peace Pagoda is constructed atop Dhauli Hills close to the river bank of Daya River. It was built as a collaborative project between Kalinga Nippon Sangha and the Odisha Government in 1972 to mark the famous Kalinga War that was fought along the banks of Daya River around 261 BC. A rock-cut elephant located above the edicts is one of the oldest Buddhist sculptures in the State. The Dhauli Hills also provide a bird’s eye view of the entire area, lush green agricultural lands, and the river Daya. The Bhubaneswar Railway Station lies approximately 9.7 km away from Dhauli Giri hills, and it takes nearly 24 minutes to reach here.
7. Kala Bhoomi Tribal Museum:
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city life, there is the peaceful and charming Kala Bhoomi Odisha Crafts Museum in Bhubaneswar. Apart from the temples, it has become a must visit place for tourists. Divided into 2 blocks, the museum has a display area and a live section. The display area focuses on galleries about Handicrafts and Handlooms from around the state like Tussar Silk, Applique work, silver filigree etc. While the live section has an open-air theatre as well as separate workshop zones. Kala Bhoomi has been built using local raw materials such as the laterite stone which can still be seen in some of the oldest monuments around the state. This place is best for all the history enthusiast out there situated 4.6km away from Baramunda bus stop and 4km from railway station.
8. Chausathi Yogini Temple:
Located amidst paddy fields beside Mahamaya Puskarini Pond just 20km east of Bhubaneswar near the village of Hirapur, the beautiful and mysterious temple with exterior of the 2m high circular temple wall is relatively plain, but contains niches housing Katayani images. It was subsequently pieced back together, giving us a circular roofless structure with provision for the images of 64 female divinities within. For at least 500 years ancient rituals were practiced at this temple, until the cult started to diminish and ultimately the temple was abandoned. This may coincide with when some of the yogini faces were damaged, said to have been done by the Afghan invader Kalapahad. The isolated rustic atmosphere combined with a unique and mysterious destination make it a perfect destination for every photography venue.
If capturing memories is your passion, Bhubaneswar should be your next photoshoot destination. Don’t forget to share this with your non-Odia friends or anyone new to the city. Like, share, and let me know in the comments if I’ve missed any must-visit spots!
You might like- https://foodntravelstories.com/travel/travel-essentials-things-you-need-for-your-next-trip/
You can also check-https://ebhubaneswar.com/explore-city/maa-bata-mangala-temple-history-significance-timings-and-details/#google_vignette
