Bhubaneswar heritage walk commences at the magnificent Parasurameshwara temple of 7th century with finely carved sculptures and ornamentation. This temple is the harbinger of Kalinga style or architecture

We next walk to Mukteshwar and Someshwar temples, 2 gems of the Kalinga school of architecture. The temples are from 10th century and have fine carvings that indicate that these were built when Kalinga style of architecture was at its zenith.

This lovely picnic spot is 1,300 feet long and 700 feet wide and consists of a tiny island with several shrines in the centre. Legend has it that the lake was created by Lord Shiva to quench the thirst of Goddess Parvati. Hence it is believed that a dip in the Bindu Sagar Lake would wash away all the sins and get rid of all their diseases by drinking the holy water.

his spectacular temple has an idol of Balarama standing under a seven-hooded serpent, Subhadra holds a pot of jewels. Lord Krishna is seen holding a mace, chakra, lotus and conch

We take a walk past local bazaars of Bhubaneswar to smell the city's flavours.

Lingaraj temple is the most famous temple of Bhubaneshwar. Built in Kalinga style and made of sandstone and laterite, it is dedicated to Harihara, a combined form of Vishnu and Shiva. The temple was built in 11th century CE by King Yayati Keshari of Somavanshi dynasty. Note only Hindus are allowed in this temple.

e next explore this 8th century temple dedicated to Goddess Chamunda. The tower of the temple is very impressive. The semi-cylindrical shape of its roof resembles the Dravidian style gopurams of the South. An impressive carving is that of sun god Surya with a distinct facial expression, with Usha and Pratyusha shooting arrows on either side.

Raja Rani temple is a temple constructed in the 11th century from reddish and yellow sandstone. This material was called Rajarani in the local dialect and hence the temple got its name. The temple is famous for its unique sculptures of women. Women are in poses performing Odissi the traditional dance form as well as in every day life moments. End of tour.