Best Places to Visit in Shahdara – Markets, Temples & Cultural Highlights

1.Chilika

Situated on the eastern edge of India, Chilika Lake in Odisha is known for being the greatest number of brackish waters in Asia. Because it covers more than 1,100 square kilometers, Chilika offers a diverse range of activities, creatures and traditions.

On a global scale, Chilika Lake is well-known for welcoming the most migrating birds across the Indian subcontinent. Millions of birds visit every year from countries like Siberia, around the Caspian Sea, Aral Sea and other locations.

Whether they’re watching flamingos, pelicans, herons or sandpipers, birdwatchers enjoy a perfect day at the lake, especially at Nalabana Bird Sanctuary.

Chilika is important for fisherfolk as well as for wildlife. In this area of 132 villages, people rely on the lake’s fish to make a living.

In Chilika, people practice fishing as a tradition and it is also a source of income for them. A variety of tasty fish such as prawns, crabs and mullet are sold regularly at the fishing lake in Odisha.

What Makes Chilika an Interesting Place to Visit?

• To enjoy the magnificent scenery that the world offers
• The area offers superb birdwatching and you can even spot dolphins.
• Visit cultural heritage sites, explore their temples and watch how the local residents catch fresh fish.
• To take part in peaceful escapes, boat trips and the day-to-day life in the Odisha countryside.

2.Dhauli

Dhauli is a historical and spiritual place located close to Bhubaneswar by the Daya River. The Peace Pagoda or Shanti Stupa is well known, as this place highlights how Emperor Ashoka changed from a ruthless ruler to an avid follower and supporter of peace and Buddhism.

According to history, Dhauli was the place where the Kalinga War of 261 BCE was fought, leaving many casualties. Legend says that Emperor Ashoka was deeply unsettled when the Daya River was red with blood from the thousands of slain. Seeing how many people were suffering at the hands of cruel leaders, Ashoka decided to change his ways.

After this event, Ashoka decided to practice Buddhism, giving up the use of weapons and choosing a life of kindness and peace.

• Bhubaneswar is approximately 8 km from it.

• The perfect period to see the park is from October to March.

3.Udayagiri and Khandagiri

The twin cave complexes of Udayagiri and Khandagiri are situated close to Bhubaneswar and provide an exciting glimpse into the history of India. Built into the stone hills, Ajanta and Ellora caves are both naturally formed and man-made and they recall the art, religion and architecture of ancient India.

The Hathigumpha inscription was one of the greatest items discovered at Udayagiri. This inscription is a significant piece of Brahmi script, carved onto one of the caves. This text highlights the life and battles of King Kharavela, so it plays a significant role in early Indian history.

What makes the Udayagiri Caves interesting.

The first cave is called Rani Gumpha (Queen’s Cave).
With two levels and beautiful decorations, this is the cave with the most pillars, balconies and sculptures. People on the Indian subcontinent created these works to show royal parades, hunters and hunting animals and dancers.

The fourth cave is called Alakapuri Gumpha.
The cave is known as Atlantis, after the mythical city and it features carvings of stars and various animals.

In Cave 10, there is Ganesh Gumpha.
Elephant carvings and an image of Lord Ganesha are found in the elephant cave, bringing together Hindu and Jain artworks.

Here are reasons to visit New Jersey.

The chance to visit an old monk cell and experience a moment of quiet peace.

To witness the cave architecture in early India that influenced temple designs

Seeing history and myth work together in the stone art.

Even today, Jain followers and devotees continue to appreciate the rich Jain heritage.

• It is only 7 kilometers away from Bhubaneswar’s main railway station.

• The period from October to March is when the temperature is best for exploring the caves.

• Indian and foreign tourists are required to pay nominal fees at the entrance.

4.Nandan Kanan

Just a short 20-kilometer drive from the city of Bhubaneswar lies one of India’s best nature spots: Nandankanan Zoological Park. In truth, “Nandankanan” means “The Garden of Heaven” and this park impresses with many species, beautiful plants and its relevance to nature.

Nandankanan became open to visitors in 1979, but was inaugurated as a zoo back in 1960. With the Kanjia Lake (134 acres) as part of the surroundings, the zoological park, botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary attract lots of nature enthusiasts.

Nandankanan made history in 2009 by entering the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and committing to help protect and conserve wildlife across the world.

A super-cyclone in 1999 severely damaged Nandankanan when it struck Odisha’s coast. But with people supporting the effort and with strong will, a big improvement was made in 2000 which meant newly updated areas and larger spaces for the animals.

• The district is about 20 km from Bhubaneswar in Odisha.

• You may visit between 7:30 AM and 5:30 PM, but the park is closed every Monday.

• There is a little charge to enter and separate ticket prices apply for safaris, boats and camera use.

• Planning a visit? Zoo Magdeburg is busy from October to March because the weather is pleasant and birds from other countries are there too.

5.Rameshwar wadi

Rameshwar Wadi is a serene costal town found along the beautiful Konkan coast in Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra. Known mostly for the Shri Dev Rameshwar Temple and tasty Alphonso mangoes, visiting this town is a refreshing idea for an offbeat trip along India’s west coast.

The most sacred place in Rameshwar is the ancient Shri Dev Rameshwar Temple, created for Lord Shiva. Due to its unique architecture, beautiful wooden sculptures and spiritual importance, the temple is widely popular among spiritual followers and fans of architecture.

The temple, said to be centuries ancient, draws many pilgrims on Mahashivratri for blessings as they celebrate and witness special rituals. Thanks to its religious aura and rich history, the temple holds a special place in the area.

Why is Rameshwar Wadi an Attractive Place to See?

Enjoy a sense of peace at an antique temple.

Experience the best Alphonso mangoes by purchasing them at the place they are grown.

See the unique plants and animals as well as the fertile lands of Konkan.

Visit places where you can ease away from the hustle and bustle.

• Try Konkan style of cooking and learn about its people.

• It is situated in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra.

• For Visitors, the best time is from November to May (Mangoes are best from April to May)

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