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Odisha Part 10: Bhubaneshwar – the city of temples

Bhubaneshwar is often called the city of temples . It is impossible to know exactly how many temples there are, but it has been estimated that there might be over 700 temples in the city. This number, while impressive, is just a fraction of the original number, which, sometime in the 13 th century, would have been about 7000. Wikipedia has a page dedicated to the Hindu temples of Bhubaneshwar , where 93 temples are listed. All these are ancient temples, built between the 7 th and 13 th centuries CE. Bhubaneshwar was once known as Ekamra Kshetra , the sacred mango grove. We know this name from an inscription at the Ananta Vasudeva temple, which mentions the name of the place, and the main temple (that we now know as the Lingaraja temple) in the mango grove. Ananta Vasudeva Temple, with a sculpture of Trivikrama in the niche It is extremely interesting to note that the Ananta Vasudeva temple is the only temple to Lord Vishnu in this city. Varaha, Ananta Vasudeva Temple Located v...
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And so, the year begins!!

2014 is finally here, and it seems to be starting off on the right note. There are some interesting things happening, but you will have to wait to find out what they are. After all, there is nothing as wonderful as surprises, is there? Right now, the good news is that I am off again, on an unexpected trip!! 




This was the first place I visited with my husband, in August 2002, and it marked the beginning of our thirst for travel, especially to out of the way places. This was also where I saw my first Hornbill, and though I didn't realize it then, developed an interest in birdwatching. Yes, folks, I am off to Dandeli, again!

It might have been fun to go back along the same trails with my husband again, more than 11 years later, but it was not to be. Instead, I am going this time with my son, who, needless to say, is thrilled!!! More importantly, this time, I am going there on an invite from Dandeli.com .



Dandeli.com are affiliated with major resorts in and around Dandeli, and are engaged in promoting tourism in the area. They handle all bookings, from hotels/resorts to vehicles and also sightseeing and treks in the area. They very graciously agreed to let me bring Samhith along and since I wasn't  able to make the bus bookings from home, they even arranged those for me. Making all the arrangements through phone and email was a breeze, and now I am looking forward to the experience!!! The perfect start to the new year, wouldn't you agree? 

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