Exploring Bhubaneswar: Hidden Temples, Honest Impressions & Masala Cola

Welcome back to Budget Nomad!Today, I’m in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha and often dubbed India’s Temple City. My mission? To track down the temples of Bhubaneswar (not the Pulmonary Veins of Istanbul—still waking up here). What followed was a day of mysterious shrines, awkward selfies, fizzy drinks, and a lesson in Indian train bureaucracy.

Whether you're planning a solo adventure or a cultural trip through India, here’s a breakdown of what to expect—including travel costs, temple tips, hidden gems, and where to find Masala Coca-Cola.

📍 Stop 1: The Lingraj Temple (Kind Of)

Entry Fee: Free (viewing platform only)

Camera Fee: ₹0 (since you’re outside)

The Lingaraj Temple is Bhubaneswar’s crown jewel. Unfortunately, non-Hindus aren’t allowed inside, but there’s a nearby viewing platform that offers a decent (if shadowy) glimpse of the temple's towering structure.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t feel pressured to donate. Someone might ask for your name, country, and a "small donation"—but you’re under no obligation to give anything.

🛕 Wandering Further: Forgotten Temples & Giant Baths

Cost: Free

Around the corner from Lingaraj, I wandered into quieter areas dotted with ancient, unmarked temples—some wrapped in plastic sheets or hidden behind homes. I even found what looked like a giant stepwell or stone bath, still used by locals.

It was peaceful, authentic, and deeply atmospheric—a rare glimpse into living heritage.

📍 Location: Around Old Town Bhubaneswar (walkable from Lingaraj)

🎭 Cultural Interactions: Selfies, Smiles & Solitude

Cost: Free

Best Time: Early morning or just before sunset

Compared to the hustle of nearby tourist towns like Puri, Bhubaneswar felt calm. Vendors were respectful, and people mostly left me alone—except for the occasional selfie request, which I always say yes to. It’s a fun way to connect, and honestly, it feels good to be included in someone’s memory.

🚆 Rail Reservations: Bureaucratic Bingo

Cost: ₹200–₹700+ depending on destination and classBooking Fee (if using guide/agent): ₹100–₹300

My next stop was the railway reservation office. Total chaos. There were designated lines for tourists, women, seniors—but everyone just queued anywhere.

💡 Travel Tip: Skip the queues—use IRCTC online or pay a local guide to book for you. It’ll save a lot of time and confusion.

🏛️ Odisha State Museum: Worth Every Rupee

Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners)Camera Fee: ₹100Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

This museum was an unexpected highlight. From ancient sculptures to colonial-era rifles and mythological artwork, it’s a great introduction to Odisha’s cultural history.

I didn’t pay for a camera pass this time, but honestly, the cool interior and historical vibe made it worth the ₹20 alone.

🗺️ Location: Near Kalpana Square, easy to reach by auto-rickshaw

🛍️ Fancy Malls & Masala Cola

Auto to Mall: ₹50–₹80 (within city)Masala Cola: ₹40Food Court Meal: ₹200–₹300

Later in the day, I escaped the heat at a shiny, air-conditioned mall. Sometimes, a clean bathroom and functioning Wi-Fi are worth their weight in gold. The shops were forgettable, but the food court had a surprise waiting for me: Masala Coca-Cola.

Imagine your favorite soda with a full-blown spice rack mixed in. It was… weirdly addictive.

🧳 Total Cost Breakdown for One Day in Bhubaneswar

Expense	Approximate Cost
Local transport (autos/taxis)	₹150–₹250
Food & snacks	₹300–₹400
State Museum (entry only)	₹100
Masala Coca-Cola	₹40
Train ticket (local destination)	₹200–₹700
Total Daily Budget:	₹800–₹1,400 ($10–$17 USD)

📝 Bhubaneswar in a Day

✅ Must-See:

• Lingaraj Temple (viewing platform only)

• Odisha State Museum

  
  

🌟 Hidden Gems:

• Forgotten temples in Old Town

• Giant stone bathing wells

  
  

🍹 Food Oddity:

• Masala Cola—a spicy soda adventure

  
  

🚆 Travel Tip:

• Avoid the train office queues—book online or through a guide

  
  

🌍 Vibe:

• Peaceful, unpretentious, deeply cultural

  
  

🔗 Plan Your Trip to Bhubaneswar: Quick FAQ

How to Get to Bhubaneswar?

• By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) – domestic & limited international flights

• By Train: Well-connected to Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai (fares ₹200–₹2,000 depending on class)

• By Bus: AC buses from Puri, Cuttack, Konark – ₹100–₹300

  
  

Where to Stay?

• Budget: Zostel Bhubaneswar (₹500–₹800/night)

• Mid-range: Ginger Hotel or The Crown (₹1,500–₹3,000/night)

  
  

Best Time to Visit:

• October to February – cooler weather and fewer crowds

  
  

📹 Like This Kind of Travel?

If you enjoy offbeat Indian destinations, temple explorations, and budget travel tips, be sure to:

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💬 Drop a comment if you've been to Bhubaneswar or have tips I missed!