Bhubaneswar’s Old Town is the historic heart of the Temple City, home to the great Lingaraj temple, the Bindu Sagar lake and dozens of smaller temples dating back over a thousand years. Its streets are lined with old homes, shops selling temple offerings and small eateries, and it has a calm, timeless character very different from the planned modern city. For Myra members, Old Town offers a meaningful setting for a second date, especially for people who enjoy history and architecture. Introductions here often include people from Lingaraj Nagar, Kedar Gouri, Bhimpur, Samantarapur and Laxmisagar, depending on your distance limit. The Mukteshwar and Rajarani temples, known for their exquisite carvings, are among the most beautiful in India and are open to all visitors. A morning heritage walk, followed by breakfast at a local eatery, makes a memorable outing. Note that some temples, including Lingaraj, restrict entry for non-Hindus, so check before you go and respect local customs and dress codes. During Shivaratri and other temple festivals, the Old Town fills with pilgrims, lamps and music. It is an unforgettable sight, but the crowds make it better suited to a later outing than to a first meeting. On ordinary days, the early morning is the calmest and most beautiful time to visit. The Lingaraj temple dates to the eleventh century.
Where to meet in Old Town
Bindu Sagar lake
A sacred lake surrounded by temples, peaceful in the early morning.
Mukteshwar and Rajarani temples
Exquisitely carved temples open to all visitors, beautiful in the late afternoon light.
Heritage walk
Guided walks through the old temple lanes, a great way to talk while exploring.
Local breakfast
Small eateries serving Odia breakfast such as chakuli pitha and ghugni.
Getting around
Old Town is a short ride from the city centre by auto, bus or cab app. The lanes are narrow and best explored on foot.
Good to know
- Respect temple rules and dress codes, and check entry restrictions in advance.
- Festival days bring huge crowds; plan a different day for a first meeting.
Other neighbourhoods in Bhubaneswar
Meet verified people near Old Town
Introductions on Myra respect your distance preference, so you can meet people close to home.