BHUBNESHWAR SIGHTSEEING
KHANDAGIRI & UDAYGIRI (JAIN HERITAGE)
The twin hills of Khandagiri & Udayagiri, 8 km from Bhubaneswar, served as the site of an ancient Jain monastery which was carved into cave like chambers in the face of the hill. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, some of the caves have beautiful carvings. The Rani Gumpha ( Queen's Cave), one of the largest and double- storied is ornately embellished with beautiful carvings.
ATRI
The Atri hot sulphur spring is believed to have medicinal properties and has become a popular outing spot for vacationers. The drive from Bhuhaneswar (42 km) alone is worth the trip. The countryside is gorgeous. Atri is also famous for its temple dedicated to Lord Hatakeswar.
DHAULI
Just 8 km away from Bhubaneswar looking down on the plains that bore witness to the gruesome war waged on Kalinga by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka, stand the rock edicts of Dhauli. It was here that King Ashoka; full of remorse renounced his bloodthirsty campaign and turned to Buddhism. The edicts are a living testimony to the King's change of heart. He urges his administrators to rule the land with justice and compassion.
THE GARDEN OF GODS : NANDANKANAN
A short distance from the capital city, Bhubaneswar, the Nandankanan zoo lies in the splendid environs of the CHANDAKA forest , along the ripling water of the KANJIA LAKE.It also contains a botanical garden and part of it is has been declared a santuary.It's famous for it's white tiger population .Nandankanan or the garden of Gods,has bocom a hot family favorite,with visitors getting an excellent oppertunity to enjoy seeing these regal animals in thire natural glory-in an environment conducive to there growth.
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