India is a land of myriad cultures, languages, and traditions, that unfolds like a vibrant tapestry. Each state in our country comes with its unique history and heritage, contributing to the rich culture that defines this incredible country. Nestled within the eastern state of Odisha is Bhubaneswar, a city where the ancient temples coexist perfectly with contemporary marvels. A couple of days back, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the enchanting city of Bhubaneswar and experience a beautiful concoction of tradition and modernity at Lyfe Hotel. Let me take you through my experience at this splendid oasis!
How I Reached The Hotel
Lyfe Hotel, which began running in January 2024, is nestled on Janpath Road - the heart of Bhubaneswar city - in Odisha. From Biju Patnaik International Airport to the hotel, the ride merely takes 20 minutes by car. In fact, you can also avail of the online transportation services provided by Ola and Uber. I was picked up by the car sent by the hotel, and on my way, immersed myself into the bustling streets of Bhubaneswar. Trust me, it was something out of a storybook. Since I arrived a day before Pana Sankranti - which is the Odia New Year - I saw people rushing around with their families, from one grocery store to another prepping for the D-Day. The ride to the hotel was a breeze, and I could not wait to experience what lay ahead of my day.
My Stay At Lyfe Hotel
I was welcomed at the Lyfe Hotel with much enthusiasm by the staff and the management. The property exhaled luxurious yet sombre vibes. However, the thing that caught my eye was not the huge glass door or the assistance but the architecture of the hotel. The lobby's beige and brown colour combination had accented patterns inspired by Sun Temple. Even the mats and carpets around the property were designed in a way to incorporate the essence of temples - something Bhubaneswar is famous for.
Once I checked in, I was escorted to a Deluxe room on the 7th floor. Lyfe provides you with three options - Standard, Deluxe, and Superior King Room. The rooms were spacious and luxurious and came with almost every amenity you could think of - bathtubs, laundry service, 24*7 catering, etc. The moment I opened the curtains, I could see the city of Bhubaneswar right in front of my eyes. My room had a gorgeous view with a king-size bed, a stocked mini fridge, and a bathroom with a bathtub and salts.
Property At Large
Although the hotel had all the modern amenities, its roots and essence lie in the past. All over the property, I could spot little inspirations drawn from local temples. Lyfe has 4 banquet halls - Jade, Amber, Opal and Iris - which are spacious and equipped with the latest technology. With the basement parking option available, these halls are perfect to host everything - from business conferences to kitty parties.
The latter two - Opal and Iris, are a public favourite I was told since they were pool facing. The walls in and around the property had floral and temple-inspired carvings, and that too in subtle tones, which balanced the modern and traditional essence perfectly. Inside the premises, there were four little mandirs dedicated to God and Goddesses - Sai Baba, Ganesha, Bajrangbali, and Durga Maa - capturing the essence of the city of temples.
Where To Eat
I am not going to lie but during the three-day stay at Lyfe hotel, all I did was amazing food. The property houses four restaurants - Lyfe's Kitchen, Cafe Deli, Mojo, and Sweet Basil. As I mentioned above, I arrived in the city a day before Pana Sankranti and during the Navratri season. I had a delicious Navratri thali in Lyfe's kitchen, specially prepared for the religious season. However, that was not all. Lyfe's kitchen also had an elaborate buffet option available for non-fasters, boasting food and dessert options prepared by Executive Chef Shailesh Shekhar. Speaking about how he uses his over 20-decade experience to enhance the culinary scene at Lyfe, he said, "Instead of disturbing the original, traditional flavour combinations of dishes, I work on their presentation style, making it more visually appealing."
Photo Credit: Nikita Nikhil
Thanks to Chef Shailesh, I got to taste the authentic Odia thali during my visit to the city. Presented to me on the day of Pana Sankranti, the huge thali comprised 10 dishes (Chenna tarkari, Chakuli pitha, Dahi baigana, Chatu Bara, Masala Papad, Kanika, Ghantia, and Dalma), three condiments (Alu chakata, Badiger chura, and tomato khata), two desserts (Rasgola and Chenna poda), and one sweet drink (Pana).
Just opposite Lyfe's Kitchen lies a small bakery called Cafe Deli. Head by pastry chef Swodesh Mohanty, the bakery had all items - from fresh breads to mouthwatering cakes. In fact, I did not waste this opportunity and asked Chef Swodesh the most burning question in the culinary world right now, How Should One Store Bread To Maintain Its Freshness For Long!? He responded, "Breads like sourdough, French loaf, and baguettes, if not refrigerated, can be stored outside for a maximum of 15 days. However, if you plan to use the bread later, freeze it. But, make sure the store it in a freezer with -18*C. Whenever you want to use it, thaw it properly."
The third restaurant on the property is a bar called MoJo, which is perfect if you want to enjoy it with your friends and partner. Separated by a sliding door is the authentic Thai restaurant on the property called Sweet Basil. Headed by chef Sara Panisara, this restaurant faces the city and at the time, was hosting the Songkran Food Festival celebrating Thai New Year.
Photo Credit: Nikita Nikhil
During my visit to the restaurant, I had the most delicious Thai food I have ever had. Right from Koong Pow Nam Jim See Food (lobster cooked and served with Thai salsa) to Gang Pet Ped Yang (Red Duck Curry) to Gai Sa Tay (Chicken Satay), the options were numerous. In fact, Chef Sara also prepared Lamb Massaman (Australian mutton cooked in coconut milk and spices) for one of my dinners.
All in all, the food options in the property are plenty and cater to every taste.
What To Do In And Outside Property
Relax, eat, and roam around. These three are a must on a vacation, especially when you are in Bhubaneswar staying at Lyfe Hotel. The property has two pools and a relaxing spa option that will make you feel at the top of the world. What's more? Every Sunday, Lyfe's Kitchen hosts a "Sunday Brunch" which is accompanied by a live performance by local singers. You can also experience the Odisha arts and crafts village called Raghurajpur.
Konark Sun Temple, Puri
Photo Credit: iStock
In fact, you can also visit the famous temples in Puri, which is a one-hour drive from Bhubaneswar. I had the amazing opportunity (and luck for that matter!) that I was able to visit the UNESCO World Heritage - Konark Sun Temple - and pay my respects at Jagannath Puri temple.
My three-day trip to Bhubaneswar was a mix of modern and traditional, just the way I like it! And my stay at the luxurious Lyfe Hotel was what made it so memorable!
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