HOMETOWN Diaries

Words Priya Kumari Rana

BHUBANESWAR, Odisha

P rakruti

Mishra

National Award-winning actor (for Odia film Hello Arsi)

Bhubaneswar, the state capital, offers a seamless transition between two time zones - the old quintessential temple town and the new, hip city.

Why visit: With pleasant weather and cosy cafés, Bhubaneswar exudes the vibe of a hill station. This city, which traces its history back more than 3,000 years to the Kalinga empire, boasts numerous temples, earning it the moniker of Temple City. It is also a melting pot of Odia heritage - from handloom to art and crafts. For traditional handicrafts like wood and stone sculptures, appliqué work, dhokra casting and palm leaf engravings, head to Ekamra Haat.

Savour Odia delicacies like dalma and a wide variety of pithas. I crave dahi bara aloo dum - a popular street food. Do try chhena poda – a celebrated dessert.

Must: The scenic hour-long coastal drive to Puri (about 60 km away), home of the revered Jagannath Temple. Make a day trip to the 2nd century Udaygiri and Khandagiri caves with exquisite carvings, just a few kilometres away from the city, or the Chilika Lake for a perfect weekend!

Note: Bhubaneswar hosted the Hockey Men's World Cup For two consecutive seasons - 2018 and 2023.

Must: One of my favourites is the Strand, an ornate riverside promenade, dotted with old French homes and monuments.