The capital of the state of Orissa, Bhubaneswar has a long history and is today a centre for commerce and religious activity. Very often known as the “Temple City” in India, it is known for its architecture and ancient temples. The imposing Lingaraj Temple, the quiet beauty of the Vishwa Shanti Stupa and the pink translucence of the Mahavira Jain Temple in nearby Khandagiri, inspire feelings of wonder at their sheer beauty and their cross-cultural permutations. Once believed to have over 7,000 temples, today only around 500 survive.