Every year, thousands of devotees travel to Puri to witness the grand Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of India’s most celebrated spiritual festivals. Once the festivities conclude, many visitors continue their journey to Bhubaneswar, the Temple City of India, to experience its remarkable blend of spirituality, history, culture, and modern attractions. If you are wondering about the things to do in Bhubaneswar after Rath Yatra, this guide will help you plan a memorable visit while exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Whether you are planning a one day sightseeing in Bhubaneswar after Puri trip or an extended stay, the city offers a perfect balance of heritage, nature, shopping, and authentic Odia cuisine.
Things To Do in Bhubaneswar After Rath Yatra
1. Admire the city’s temples
Having witnessed Lord Jagannath’s grand Rath Yatra, you may want to learn more about Odisha’s ancient temples. First, explore Bhubaneswar’s renowned Lingaraj Temple complex famed for its rock-cut temples, stunning architecture, and intricate sculptures. Then, take a close look at the beautifully carved Mukteswar and Rajarani Temples. In the meanwhile, have a walk around Bindu Sagar Lake as it provides a spectacular view that complements the thrilling Rath Yatra.
2. Discover the city’s rich history
City of Temples is undoubtedly a land of rich history. While exploring Bhubaneswar, make sure to visit Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, a masterpiece of ancient rock-cut architecture. Further, head to Dhauli Shanti Stupa, an impressive peace pagoda built atop the site where the blood of the Kalinga War was washed away. Finally, visit the Odisha State Museum, a treasure of ancient artifacts, manuscripts, tribal relics, and sculpture.
3. Enjoy family time
Bhubaneswar is an excellent place to spend leisure time with your family. For instance, if you are traveling with your children, the Nandankanan Zoological Park is an ideal place to visit. This popular tourist destination covers a vast area comprising natural vegetation, animal safari, and beautiful botanical gardens.
Additionally, the capital of Odisha features broad roads and avenues that allow you to drive around the city without any hassle. As a result, you can take a relaxed tour of Bhubaneswar during your family trip with minimum traffic.
4. Shop traditional souvenirs and handicrafts
No trip would be complete without shopping! So, visit the local haat (market) to get souvenir gifts at affordable prices. At Ekamra Haat, you will find an excellent collection of handloom textiles, carved stone items, applique work, silver filigree jewelry, and much more. This place serves as the best destination to purchase Odisha specialty handicrafts and souvenirs for your friends and loved ones.
5. Savor local delights
Tasting local cuisine is indeed an unforgettable travel experience. While visiting Bhubaneswar, have a treat of authentic Odissi meals and desserts. Notably, the local dishes in the capital city are famous for their unique flavors.
How To Spend a Day in Bhubaneswar After Rath Yatra
Morning
- Visit Lingaraj Temple
- Explore Mukteswar Temple
- Admire RajaraniTemple
- Have a walk around Bindu Sagar Lake
Afternoon
- Explore Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves
- Discover Dhauli Shanti Stupa
Evening
- Shop local handicrafts at Ekamra Haat
- Sample authentic Odisha cuisine for dinner
This way, on the day following Rath Yatra, you can take a brief tour of this temple city that offers a blend of spirituality, history, culture, and leisure activities.
Make Your Bhubaneswar Trip Memorable
As a popular holiday destination, Bhubaneswar has a variety of hotels offering unmatched luxury and comfort. For instance, Shivalik Hotel provides a comfortable place to relax and helps you explore this city of temples. Located near major tourist spots, this hotel remains an excellent choice for visitors who wish to spend quality time discovering the destination. Moreover, if you are a business traveler, the hotel also offers top-notch accommodation for conferences and meetings. What makes Shivalik Hotel even better is its strategic location, which makes it convenient for both leisure and business travelers wanting to explore Bhubaneswar after Rath Yatra.
Finally, a trip to Bhubaneswar provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the rich Odia heritage, culture, and cuisine. Thus, if you are planning a trip to Odisha in 2026, do not forget to witness some of the ancient temples, caves, and museums. Also, make sure to try local cuisine that keeps the legacy of Odisha’s history and tradition alive.
FAQs
- What are the best things to do in Bhubaneswar after Rath Yatra?
The best places to visit in Bhubaneswar after Rath Yatra include Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswar Temple, Rajarani Temple, Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves, Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Ekamra Haat, and local restaurants with Odia cuisine.
- How far is Bhubaneswar from Puri?
It takes around one and a half hours to reach Bhubaneswar from Puri. The distance between the two cities is about 60 km.
- Is Bhubaneswar suitable for a family trip?
Bhubaneswar is a great place for a family vacation. Some of the best family-friendly places to visit in Bhubaneswar are Nandankanan Zoological Park, Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Ekamra Haat, Odisha State Museum, and museums. Moreover, Bhubaneswar has wide roads and avenues with good infrastructure that allows you to commute around the city with ease.
- Where can I shop for Odisha handicrafts?
Among the best places to shop in Bhubaneswar, Ekamra Haat is the most famous for its wide range of Odisha handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Where should I stay in Bhubaneswar after Rath Yatra?
Shivalik Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Bhubaneswar. It offers top-notch luxury accommodation in a comfortable ambiance and excellent dining options.
- Does Shivalik Hotel offer easy access to Bhubaneswar’s tourist spots?
Shivalik Hotel provides easy access to all the major tourist spots in Bhubaneswar. Moreover, it offers reliable transportation services for guests who want to explore the city.
- Is Shivalik Hotel suitable for family stay?
Shivalik Hotel offers spacious accommodation with all the modern-day amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for families, couples, and solo travelers.
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