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Orissa
Situated on the coast along the Bay of Bengal, Orissa stands for its ancient glory and modern endeavour. Endowed with nature's bounty, a 482 km stretch of coastline with virgin beaches, serpentine rivers, mighty waterfalls, forest-clad blue hills of Eastern Ghats with rich wild life, Orissa is dotted with exquisite temples, historic monuments as well as pieces of modern engineering feat. The land, while retaining its pristine glory, also offers the visitors modern amenities.
Its lush green countryside and fertile plains, tiny hamlets fringed with palm, coconut trees and mango groves offer the charm of rural beauty while the urban pockets, the four cities in particular, with the splendour of modern technology provide the amenities necessary for a comfortable stay.
This wonderful land of fascinating beauty boasts of colourful festivals round the year. Orissa is also the land of unique handicrafts and other excellent artefacts.
Orissa has a long tradition of art and architecture. The early monuments date back to the third century B.C. The remnant of an Ashokan pillar, turned into a Siva Lingam and enshrined in the Bhaskaresvara temple at Bhubaneswar and the lion capital of an Ashokan pillar, presently in the State Museum, speak volumes of Orissa's past glory.
The rock-cut caves of Khandagiri and Udaygiri and the inscriptions recording Kharavela's short but eventful reign during the first century B.C. constitute the second phase of the evolution in Orissan art. The Naga and Yaksha images found in places around Bhubaneswar belong to the post-Kharavela era. The fortification of Sisupalgarh near Bhubaneswar is yet another monument of ancient Orissa.
Orissa is also known for her exquisite handicrafts. Silver filigree work of Cuttack, horn work of Cuttack and Parlakhemundi and the famous applique work of Pipili deserve special mention. Pattachitra, a form of folk painting of Orissa, is a unique craft. Brass and bell metalware, particularly vases and candle stands, are beautiful and longlasting.
The blackstone bowls and plates of Nilagiri and Khiching and multi-coloured stone statues are other attractions. Silk and cotton handloom products, especially saris are simply bewitching. The Sambalpuri saris and Maniabandhi patas are matchless in their texture and designs.
Its lush green countryside and fertile plains, tiny hamlets fringed with palm, coconut trees and mango groves offer the charm of rural beauty while the urban pockets, the four cities in particular, with the splendour of modern technology provide the amenities necessary for a comfortable stay.
This wonderful land of fascinating beauty boasts of colourful festivals round the year. Orissa is also the land of unique handicrafts and other excellent artefacts.
Orissa has a long tradition of art and architecture. The early monuments date back to the third century B.C. The remnant of an Ashokan pillar, turned into a Siva Lingam and enshrined in the Bhaskaresvara temple at Bhubaneswar and the lion capital of an Ashokan pillar, presently in the State Museum, speak volumes of Orissa's past glory.
The rock-cut caves of Khandagiri and Udaygiri and the inscriptions recording Kharavela's short but eventful reign during the first century B.C. constitute the second phase of the evolution in Orissan art. The Naga and Yaksha images found in places around Bhubaneswar belong to the post-Kharavela era. The fortification of Sisupalgarh near Bhubaneswar is yet another monument of ancient Orissa.
Orissa is also known for her exquisite handicrafts. Silver filigree work of Cuttack, horn work of Cuttack and Parlakhemundi and the famous applique work of Pipili deserve special mention. Pattachitra, a form of folk painting of Orissa, is a unique craft. Brass and bell metalware, particularly vases and candle stands, are beautiful and longlasting.
The blackstone bowls and plates of Nilagiri and Khiching and multi-coloured stone statues are other attractions. Silk and cotton handloom products, especially saris are simply bewitching. The Sambalpuri saris and Maniabandhi patas are matchless in their texture and designs.
| Capital | : | Bhubaneshwar |
| Location | : | State at east coast of India |
| District Area | : | 155,707 sq. km |
| Coastlines | : | 480 km |
| Literacy | : | 63.08% |
| Sex Ratio | : | 1086 females : 1000 males |
| Best time to visit | : | October to March |
| Temperature | : | Summer: 36°C Max. to 27°C Min. Winter: 25°C Max. to 15°C Min. |
| Climate | : | Typically tropical |
| Rainfall | : | 1,489 mm Average Rainfall |
| Clothing | : | Summers: Cotton in light fabrics Winters: Light woolens and pullovers |
| Local Languages | : | Oriya, Baleswari, Bhatri, Laria, Sambalpuri, Ganjami, Chhatisgarhi and Medinipuri |
| Religions | : | Hindus, Muslim, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhist and Jains |
Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Orissa, is situated in its eastern side. The city boasts of majestic temples and shrines, which form a major part of its tourist attractions. It serves as the perfect example of the fusion of age-old customs and traditions and modern aspirations. This is one of the basic reasons why tourism is Bhubaneshwar is gaining momentum day by day. People are coming to the city from various parts of India as well as the world to witness it unique splendor.
Konark
Located at a distance of nearly 65 km from Bhubaneswar, Konark city is famous throughout the world for its magnificent Sun Temple, which is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. It is one of the three cities that form the Golden Triangle of tourism in Orissa. Konark is a city that is well known for its architectural wonders. Besides the numerous temples and maths, its other major attraction is the Konark Beach, one of the most enchanting beaches of India.
Puri
Puri, known as the dwelling place of Lord Jagannath, is one of the most visited tourist destinations of India. It is situated on the eastern side of Orissa and lies about 60 km away from the capital city of Bhubaneswar. The major attractions of the city comprise of its marvelous temples and gorgeous beaches. There are four sacred Hindu Dhams in India and Puri is one of them. The city is also known as ‘Jagannath Puri’, ‘Martya Vaikuntha’ or ‘Sri Purusottama Dham’.
Jagannath Temple
Jagannath Temple is one of the most renowned as well as the biggest temples of Orissa. Established in the 12th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Lord Krishna), Lord of the Universe. The credit for laying the foundation of the Jagannath temple of Puri goes to Raja Ananta Varman Chodaganga Dev. The temple is located at a distance of 60 km from Bhubaneswar, on the coast of Bay of Bengal, and is greatly revered by the devotees following the Vaishnava traditions.
Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra, which is also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of the most prominent festivals of Orissa, which is celebrated in the holy city of Puri. ‘Rath Yatra’ has derived its name from the words ‘Rath’, meaning ‘Chariot’, and ‘Yatra’, meaning ‘Procession’. This festival is celebrated with gusto in almost every part of the country. However, it was initiated in Jagannath Temple and it still attracts devotees from different parts of India. Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra is a very colorful festivity, in which people participate enthusiastically.
Udaigiri
Udaigiri, along with Ratnagiri and Lalitagiri, forms the Buddhist Triangle in India. The city is situated in the state of Orissa and holds the distinction of being its largest Buddhist complex. Excavations are being carried out at the site by the Archaeological Survey of India, since quite a long time. The most recent ones led to the unearthing of a monastery, by the name Madhavapura Mahavihara. This monastery is adorned with a large number of Buddhist sculptures, which are definitely worth having a look at.
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri is a splendid Buddhist site that comes under the Jajpur district of Orissa. It is situated at a distance of approximately 100 km from Bhubaneswar and 70 km from Cuttack. The site, situated on a small hill, stands surrounded by rivers from all the sides. As you climb up to Ratnagiri, you will come across magnificent views of vast plains, full of lush greenery. Excavations were carried out at the site and they led to the unearthing of two large monasteries, one of them being Sri Ratnagiri Mahavihara Aryabhikshu Sangha.
Udaigiri & Khandagiri Caves
Some of the popular caves in Khandagiri include Akshay Ganga, Gupta Ganga, Shyam Kund and Radha Kund. One of the most interesting caves is the 24-Tirthankaras Cave. It contains the carvings of the twenty-four Apostles of Jainism, on the monolithic stones. There is another fascinating cave known as the ‘Ganesh Cave’. Udaygiri & Khandagiri caves are one of the famous tourist attractions near the Bhubaneshwar city of India today.
Dhauli Hill
Dhauli Hill, one of the most visited Buddhist pilgrim destinations in India, is situated in the state of Orissa. It is located in the Khurda district, at a distance of approximately 8 km from Bhubaneswar. The hill represents the place where, after witnessing the carnage of Kalinga War, Emperor Ashoka relinquished war and adopted Buddhism. Serving as a proof of this renunciation are the edicts of the Emperor, which have been preserved here.
Lingaraj Temple
Lingaraj temple is one of the most popular temples of Orissa. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as ‘Lingaraj’. It is adorned with beautiful sculptures, which have been carved on the spire. Lingaraja temple is approximately 54.8 metres high and enshrines a huge statue of Lord Shiva, made up of granite. The idol is 8 feet in diameter and is placed on a platform that is about 8 inches above ground. The deity is bathed everyday with water, milk and bhang (marijuana).
Konark Dance Festival
Konark Music and Dance Festival is one of the most rocking festivities of Orissa, celebrated with much gusto and enthusiasm. It usually takes place in the month of December. The open-air auditorium of the Konark Sun temple serves as the venue of this wonderful festival. Konark Dance Festival is organized to promote the classical dances and music of India. It witnesses many exceptional performances by established performers as well as novices, who come here from the different parts of the country.
Chilka Lake
Lying on the eastern coast of Orissa, Chilka Lake is one of the most sought after tourist attractions near the holy city of Puri. The source of the lake is the Mahanadi River, which drains into it. Chilika Lake is one of the largest lakes in not only India, but also Asia and stretches over an area of 1,100 sq km. It is a very popular picnic spot and provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing and bird watching. If you just want to relax and soak the sunrays, this is the perfect place for you.
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Orissa, is situated in its eastern side. The city boasts of majestic temples and shrines, which form a major part of its tourist attractions. It serves as the perfect example of the fusion of age-old customs and traditions and modern aspirations. This is one of the basic reasons why tourism is Bhubaneshwar is gaining momentum day by day. People are coming to the city from various parts of India as well as the world to witness it unique splendor.
Konark
Located at a distance of nearly 65 km from Bhubaneswar, Konark city is famous throughout the world for its magnificent Sun Temple, which is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. It is one of the three cities that form the Golden Triangle of tourism in Orissa. Konark is a city that is well known for its architectural wonders. Besides the numerous temples and maths, its other major attraction is the Konark Beach, one of the most enchanting beaches of India.
Puri
Puri, known as the dwelling place of Lord Jagannath, is one of the most visited tourist destinations of India. It is situated on the eastern side of Orissa and lies about 60 km away from the capital city of Bhubaneswar. The major attractions of the city comprise of its marvelous temples and gorgeous beaches. There are four sacred Hindu Dhams in India and Puri is one of them. The city is also known as ‘Jagannath Puri’, ‘Martya Vaikuntha’ or ‘Sri Purusottama Dham’.
Jagannath Temple
Jagannath Temple is one of the most renowned as well as the biggest temples of Orissa. Established in the 12th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Lord Krishna), Lord of the Universe. The credit for laying the foundation of the Jagannath temple of Puri goes to Raja Ananta Varman Chodaganga Dev. The temple is located at a distance of 60 km from Bhubaneswar, on the coast of Bay of Bengal, and is greatly revered by the devotees following the Vaishnava traditions.
Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra, which is also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of the most prominent festivals of Orissa, which is celebrated in the holy city of Puri. ‘Rath Yatra’ has derived its name from the words ‘Rath’, meaning ‘Chariot’, and ‘Yatra’, meaning ‘Procession’. This festival is celebrated with gusto in almost every part of the country. However, it was initiated in Jagannath Temple and it still attracts devotees from different parts of India. Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra is a very colorful festivity, in which people participate enthusiastically.
Udaigiri
Udaigiri, along with Ratnagiri and Lalitagiri, forms the Buddhist Triangle in India. The city is situated in the state of Orissa and holds the distinction of being its largest Buddhist complex. Excavations are being carried out at the site by the Archaeological Survey of India, since quite a long time. The most recent ones led to the unearthing of a monastery, by the name Madhavapura Mahavihara. This monastery is adorned with a large number of Buddhist sculptures, which are definitely worth having a look at.
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri is a splendid Buddhist site that comes under the Jajpur district of Orissa. It is situated at a distance of approximately 100 km from Bhubaneswar and 70 km from Cuttack. The site, situated on a small hill, stands surrounded by rivers from all the sides. As you climb up to Ratnagiri, you will come across magnificent views of vast plains, full of lush greenery. Excavations were carried out at the site and they led to the unearthing of two large monasteries, one of them being Sri Ratnagiri Mahavihara Aryabhikshu Sangha.
Udaigiri & Khandagiri Caves
Some of the popular caves in Khandagiri include Akshay Ganga, Gupta Ganga, Shyam Kund and Radha Kund. One of the most interesting caves is the 24-Tirthankaras Cave. It contains the carvings of the twenty-four Apostles of Jainism, on the monolithic stones. There is another fascinating cave known as the ‘Ganesh Cave’. Udaygiri & Khandagiri caves are one of the famous tourist attractions near the Bhubaneshwar city of India today.
Dhauli Hill
Dhauli Hill, one of the most visited Buddhist pilgrim destinations in India, is situated in the state of Orissa. It is located in the Khurda district, at a distance of approximately 8 km from Bhubaneswar. The hill represents the place where, after witnessing the carnage of Kalinga War, Emperor Ashoka relinquished war and adopted Buddhism. Serving as a proof of this renunciation are the edicts of the Emperor, which have been preserved here.
Lingaraj Temple
Lingaraj temple is one of the most popular temples of Orissa. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as ‘Lingaraj’. It is adorned with beautiful sculptures, which have been carved on the spire. Lingaraja temple is approximately 54.8 metres high and enshrines a huge statue of Lord Shiva, made up of granite. The idol is 8 feet in diameter and is placed on a platform that is about 8 inches above ground. The deity is bathed everyday with water, milk and bhang (marijuana).
Konark Dance Festival
Konark Music and Dance Festival is one of the most rocking festivities of Orissa, celebrated with much gusto and enthusiasm. It usually takes place in the month of December. The open-air auditorium of the Konark Sun temple serves as the venue of this wonderful festival. Konark Dance Festival is organized to promote the classical dances and music of India. It witnesses many exceptional performances by established performers as well as novices, who come here from the different parts of the country.
Chilka Lake
Lying on the eastern coast of Orissa, Chilka Lake is one of the most sought after tourist attractions near the holy city of Puri. The source of the lake is the Mahanadi River, which drains into it. Chilika Lake is one of the largest lakes in not only India, but also Asia and stretches over an area of 1,100 sq km. It is a very popular picnic spot and provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing and bird watching. If you just want to relax and soak the sunrays, this is the perfect place for you.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
Chaitya Parva
Chaitya Parva festival is a famous tribal festival of Orissa. It is mainly celebrated by the tribal groups of Koya in Koraput and Bhuiyans in Keonjhar, Sundargarh and Mayurbhanj.
Ekamra Utsav
Ekamra Utsav is not a single festival, but a series of festive occasions. It is a ten day long festivity that usually takes place in the Bhubaneswar city of Orissa. It is basically dedicated to Lord Shiva and aims at promoting the cultural heritage of the state.
Kalinga Mahotsav
Kalinga Mahotsav is one of the most famous festivals of Orissa. It holds great religious significance for people. The aim of this festival is to encourage people to follow the path of peace and calm, rather than fighting amongst themselves.
Konark Dance Festival
Konark Music and Dance Festival is one of the most rocking festivities of Orissa, celebrated with much gusto and enthusiasm. It usually takes place in the month of December.
Parab Tribal Festival
Parab Tribal Festival is an annual festival that is usually organized in the Koraput district of Orissa. It was initiated in the year 1996 and the credit for organizing it goes to the district council of Koraput.
Puri Beach Festival
One of the most popular festivals of Orissa is the Puri Beach Festival. Fun lovers look forward to celebrating this festival every year at one of the holiest cities of India.
Rajarani Music Festival
Raja Rani Music Festival is a very well known festivity of Orissa. The credit for organizing it goes to the Department of Tourism, Orissa; in collaboration with other organizations like Bhubaneswar Music Circle, Orissa Sangeet Natak Academy, NALCO and the Union Ministry of Tourism.
Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra, which is also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of the most prominent festivals of Orissa, which is celebrated in the holy city of Puri. ‘Rath Yatra’ has derived its name from the words ‘Rath’, meaning ‘Chariot’, and ‘Yatra’, meaning ‘Procession’.
BEACHES
Gopalpur on Sea
If you want to have a break from the hustle bustle of city life, then Gopalpur-on-Sea Beach is just the apt place for you. Lying at a distance of 16 km from Berhampur, this lovely beach provides a breathtaking view.
Konark Beach
Konark Beach is one of the most fabulous tourist attractions of Orissa. It is located at a distance of three km from the famous Sun temple of Konark. The view of sunrise from the beach is so enchanting that it cannot be described in mere words.
Swargadwar Beach
Swargadwar Beach is one of the most sought after tourist attractions in Puri. It falls into the category of must visit sightseeing places of the city. The place has a lot of religious significance for people, as it was the bathing place of Sri Chaitanyadev, a renowned Vaishnava prophet.
Puri Beach
The holy city of Puri is one of the most revered pilgrim destinations in India. It is situated on the shores of Bay of Bengal and is therefore, home to some of the finest beaches of Orissa.
Chaitya Parva
Chaitya Parva festival is a famous tribal festival of Orissa. It is mainly celebrated by the tribal groups of Koya in Koraput and Bhuiyans in Keonjhar, Sundargarh and Mayurbhanj.
Ekamra Utsav
Ekamra Utsav is not a single festival, but a series of festive occasions. It is a ten day long festivity that usually takes place in the Bhubaneswar city of Orissa. It is basically dedicated to Lord Shiva and aims at promoting the cultural heritage of the state.
Kalinga Mahotsav
Kalinga Mahotsav is one of the most famous festivals of Orissa. It holds great religious significance for people. The aim of this festival is to encourage people to follow the path of peace and calm, rather than fighting amongst themselves.
Konark Dance Festival
Konark Music and Dance Festival is one of the most rocking festivities of Orissa, celebrated with much gusto and enthusiasm. It usually takes place in the month of December.
Parab Tribal Festival
Parab Tribal Festival is an annual festival that is usually organized in the Koraput district of Orissa. It was initiated in the year 1996 and the credit for organizing it goes to the district council of Koraput.
Puri Beach Festival
One of the most popular festivals of Orissa is the Puri Beach Festival. Fun lovers look forward to celebrating this festival every year at one of the holiest cities of India.
Rajarani Music Festival
Raja Rani Music Festival is a very well known festivity of Orissa. The credit for organizing it goes to the Department of Tourism, Orissa; in collaboration with other organizations like Bhubaneswar Music Circle, Orissa Sangeet Natak Academy, NALCO and the Union Ministry of Tourism.
Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra, which is also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of the most prominent festivals of Orissa, which is celebrated in the holy city of Puri. ‘Rath Yatra’ has derived its name from the words ‘Rath’, meaning ‘Chariot’, and ‘Yatra’, meaning ‘Procession’.
BEACHES
Gopalpur on Sea
If you want to have a break from the hustle bustle of city life, then Gopalpur-on-Sea Beach is just the apt place for you. Lying at a distance of 16 km from Berhampur, this lovely beach provides a breathtaking view.
Konark Beach
Konark Beach is one of the most fabulous tourist attractions of Orissa. It is located at a distance of three km from the famous Sun temple of Konark. The view of sunrise from the beach is so enchanting that it cannot be described in mere words.
Swargadwar Beach
Swargadwar Beach is one of the most sought after tourist attractions in Puri. It falls into the category of must visit sightseeing places of the city. The place has a lot of religious significance for people, as it was the bathing place of Sri Chaitanyadev, a renowned Vaishnava prophet.
Puri Beach
The holy city of Puri is one of the most revered pilgrim destinations in India. It is situated on the shores of Bay of Bengal and is therefore, home to some of the finest beaches of Orissa.
Summer (March-June)
It is warm almost throughout the year in the Western districts with maximum temperature hovering between 40-46° C. The summer maximum temperature ranges between 35-40° C and the low temperatures are usually between 12-14° C.
Winter (October-February)
It is intolerably cool. In the coastal districts, the climate is equable but highly humid and sticky. Winter is not very severe except in some areas in Koraput and Phulbani where minimum temperature may drop to 3-4° C.
It is warm almost throughout the year in the Western districts with maximum temperature hovering between 40-46° C. The summer maximum temperature ranges between 35-40° C and the low temperatures are usually between 12-14° C.
Winter (October-February)
It is intolerably cool. In the coastal districts, the climate is equable but highly humid and sticky. Winter is not very severe except in some areas in Koraput and Phulbani where minimum temperature may drop to 3-4° C.
By Air:
For reaching Orissa, Bhubaneswar serves as the most convenient point. There are innumerable airlines that fly on a regular basis to and from this city. Orissa is well connected with major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Hyderabad, Nagpur, etc.
By Railway:
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Orissa, serves as one of the most important railway stations of Orissa. There are a large number of trains that link Orissa with other parts of the country.
By Road:
Orissa is very well connected to other parts of the country by road. One can easily get taxis and buses for traveling to the neighboring cities. The national highway in Bhubaneshwar links Orissa with Kolkata and Chennai.
For reaching Orissa, Bhubaneswar serves as the most convenient point. There are innumerable airlines that fly on a regular basis to and from this city. Orissa is well connected with major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Hyderabad, Nagpur, etc.
By Railway:
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Orissa, serves as one of the most important railway stations of Orissa. There are a large number of trains that link Orissa with other parts of the country.
By Road:
Orissa is very well connected to other parts of the country by road. One can easily get taxis and buses for traveling to the neighboring cities. The national highway in Bhubaneshwar links Orissa with Kolkata and Chennai.