Orissa

Orissa is a captivating state with diverse, vibrant living cultures and an unrivaled architectural legacy. It's where mighty temple chariots carrying powerful deities are pulled through city streets by a heaving throng of devotees, where serene stone carvings of exceptional beauty continue to be excavated from early Buddhist sites and where Adivasis (tribal people) maintain remarkable traditions that predate many of the great empires of the subcontinent.

Orissa is also celebrated for its natural heritage: elephants and tigers crash and prowl through the Eastern Ghats at Similipal National Park, a key tiger reserve. Chilika Lake, Asia's largest lagoon, hosts the rare Irrawaddy dolphin as well as millions of migratory birds, including pink flamingos. Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary has dolphins, a surfeit of bird life and monster crocodiles. In January masses of olive ridley turtles pull themselves up onto Orissa's long beaches to lay their eggs; two months later, thousands of tiny hatch lings crawl to the sea.

Ancient civilization and tradition resonate through contemporary Orissa. Witness the grand Sun Temple of Konark, a dream of genius adorned with a storyboard of Orissan life. Modern artistry is no less adept with stone carving, painting, silver work and textiles in abundance.

Many of Orissa's attractions are clustered along the coast where weary travelers can also find inexpensive seaside retreats. Inland there's a different India, where tribes live precariously on the edge of mainstream society, yet manage to retain their colorful, fascinating traditions.

Famous Cities in Orissa

Highlights of Orissa

Bhubaneswar : Hidden in the city's suburbs are five hundred or so temples, with unique architecture and elaborate sculptures.

Pipli : Small village famous for its bold applique; the main street is a riot of colour with parasols, tablecloths and clothing in every store.

Puri : Pilgrims flock to the vast temple devoted to Lord Jagannath, particularly during the frenetic midsummer Car Festival.

Konark : An elegant thirteenth century Hindu temple sitting astride a huge stone chariot.

Olive Ridley Turtles : These endangered creatures find their way to Gahirmatha beach for one night in February to lay eggs - an unforgettable scene.

Accommodation in Orissa

Deluxe Hotels

Luxury Hotels

Budget Accommoation

How to reach Orissa

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