Orissa is a lesser known and visited destination in India. Saying this, the number of tourists visiting Orissa is keeps rising every year. Orissa offers picturesque beaches, historical marvels and a chance to get to know the tribal life of India. Orissa is also famous for its silver jewelry and traditional handicrafts. Here are the best five destinations in Orissa that will tempt you to include this less frequented state in your itinerary next time.
1. Konark Sun Temple
This temple is designed in the shape of an immense chariot of Lord Surya, the Sun God. This beautifully carved Temple was built in the thirteenth century. It is about thirty meters high with twelve gigantic wheels to support it on all sides. The carvings on this temple are quite similar to the exotic carvings seen on the walls of the Khajuraho temple. If you are in Puri or Bhubaneshwar you can plan a day’s trip to explore this historical wonder. However, if possible try and stay overnight at Konark, the temple radiates an altogether different aura in the late afternoon that will simply blow your mind away. Moreover, the temple is less crowded in the late afternoons. Note: A huge festival is organized every year from first to fifth December every year.
2. Bhubaneshwar, Capital city of Orissa
The capital of Orissa, Bhubaneshwar is a mix of old and modern. The largest temple in Orissa, The Lingraj Mandir, is in this city. You will also find several cave cuts on the outlying areas of the city into the hillside. Jain aesthetics once dwelled in these caves. The most intriguing ones of all the caves are located at Udayagiri or the Sunrise Hill. For more historical and architectural wonders you must explore several other temples that are scattered all across the temples. You can enjoy a city tour on the Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour Service. This tour service will take you to the most important sites in the city including several museums, parks as well as the popular handicraft market. Note: If you can wake up early one morning than you must head to Udayagiri for sunrise viewing.
3. Chandipur Beach
This beach is famous for the sand dunes, Casuarinas and tidal waves that retreats out for miles. This beach offers serenity and peace of mind to the visitors. This beach is simple yet unique. Tiny puddles with small fishes, shells as well as crabs are a common site here. Note: Don’t forget to stroll down on the large stretch of sea floor when the tide has receded.
4. Puri
Puri is a beach town. But it does not offer the regular beach activities. Puri is a holy town and is one of the chief pilgrimage town in India. The magnificent Jagannath Temple is situated in Puri and is the main reason for the popularity of this town. O While in Puri do make it a point to go on tribal tours as well as a day trip to the famous Chilka Lake.
5. Tribal settlements
Orissa is also famous for its tribal communities. Visiting the tribes is an enamoring experience. You can visit some of these tribes but you must go on guided tours. Do not wander off on your own as the language may be a barrier. Note: The weekly tribal markets must not be missed.
