Ananta-Vasudeva Temple was built in 13th century A.D.. the plan of the temple differs considerably from that of the other temples. The main temple stands on a cruciform platform, a peculiarity which is the first of its kind in a dated temple, and has a three-chambered frontal adjunct consisting of the Jagamohana, the Natamandira and the Bhogamandapa. Three pidha temples in alignment with the central niches were on the Northern, Eastern and southern sides of the vimana.
Lingaraj Temple – is the Temple of Shiva, built in the 11th century. It is also one of the best archaeological monuments of the east and the biggest temple in Bhubaneswar. Rising to a height of about 108 feet and dominating the entire landscape within an area of about 10 miles, this great temple represents the quintessence of the Kalinga type of architecture the culminating result of the architectural activities at Bhubaneswar. (only Hindus are allowed here);
Rajarani Temple - set in picturesque surroundings, is noted for its intricate carvings of floral, animal and human figures. The sculptures alone repudiate the theory that the Rajarani was ever a Vaisnava temple, but there are also other Saiva Sculptures on the body of the main temple. The side niches have been robbed of their images, but at the bases of the Southern and Northern niches have been carved the scenes of Linga-worship. Besides the main temple also contains on its vacates three panels which shows Siva and his female counterpart dancing in the camping of attendants holding musical instruments. Constructed in the 11th century, it has an unusual tower. More interestingly, this temple has no deity.;
Brahmeshwar Temple was built in 11th century A.D., shows mature workmanship and advanced architectural features. It is a pancha ratha temple with five pilasters two intermediate ones, two corner and one central one, fully developed which give the structure almost a rounded appearance, unlike the earlier temples which are somewhat square in appearance. The pilasters alternative with deep terraces containing gaja-simhas, which has became a definite feature in all important later temples, but which is conspicuous by its absence in all earlier ones.
Mukteshwar Temple- was built in the 10th century is well known for its stone arch at the entrance and is richly sculpted. With the tales from the Panchatantra carved on it, the temple is a magnificient example of Orissan architecture.
Vaital Deul - is architecturally striking. It is a temple of Goddess Chamunda (Kapali) built in 8th century A.D. and has a tantric influence. Represents altogether a different conception, and its shape which does not confirm to the dominant Orissan type, might be traced to that of a Buddhist chaitya hall. The shape of the Vaital has been derived from the Rathas of Mahabalipuram. Of the seven pagodas at Mahabalipuram, Bhima’s and Sahadeva’s Rathas have some similarity with it. Unlike other temples, this has its elongated and vaulted roof is suggestive of the ratha architecture of the South.
Parasurameshwar Temple - A small but richly decorated shrine of Shiva that was built in the 7th century. It is one of the best preserved. It has sculptures featuring amorous couples, animals, and floral motifs.;
Svarnajaleswara Temple: Built in 7th century A.D. is located a little south of Parsuramesware Temple has beautiful depictions from the epic of Ramayana.
Laxmaneswar, Satrughaneswar and Bharateswar temples were built in 6th century A.D.,
Khandagiri & Udaigiri Caves : The twin hills of Kumargiri and Kumarigiri known as Khandagiri and Udayagiri served as the site of an ancient Jain monastery which was carved in to verities of rock-cut caves like chambers built mainly for the Jain monks around 1st-2nd Century B.C. Some of the caves have beautiful carving. Carving of snakes and the lotus are some of the auspicious Jain symbols that are extensively used here. The thirteen years’ lithic record of Kind Kharavela engraved in Hati Gumpha(elephant cave) is a magnificent specimen of Palli records so far found in India. King Kharavela has carved out the chronicles of his reign. Out of the rock cut caves, Rani Gumpha(Queen’s cave) – is the largest and double storied is ornately embellished with beautiful carvings. At present we find eighteen caves in Udaigiri and fifteen in Khandagiri. Many of these belong to past Kharavela era.
Dhauli .: The sculpted elephant atop the Ashokan rock addict signifies the Mauryan –emperor Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism after his Kalinga victory. This is said to be the earliest rock-cut sculpture in India.A very modern monument to world peace, the `Viswa Shanti Stupa’ is a magnificient Buddhist temple built by Indo-Japanese collaboration. The river Daya flows near the hill where the great Kalinga war was fought. An old temple of Lord Dhavaleswar, reconstructed in 1972, also stands on the hill top.
Sisupalgarh: 2kms- A fortifies town surrounded by a natural moat, probably was the capital of Kalinga in the 2nd century B.C.
Nandan Kanan Zoological Park : Picturesquely carved out of the Chandaka forest Nandankanan is a Biological Park where animals are kept in their natural habitat. A centrally located lake divides the Zoo from the Botanical Garden. Majestic Tigers, Kingly Lions, clouded Leopards, Black Panthers, European Brown Bear, Himalayan Black Bear, Gharials, Indian Python, King Cobra etc. are among the greatest attractions of the zoo. The exotic Botanical Garden on the other side of the zoo preserves varieties of indigenous plants.
