Odisha- The Land of Cottony Clouds

Nestled between the lush jungles of Eastern Ghats and the palm fringed silvery beaches by the Bay of Bengal, Odisha, also known as Orissa, packs in abundant natural beauty and a keen aesthetic sense. Its stunning temples, golden beaches, ancient heritage, teeming wildlife and a rich legacy of cultures & traditions are sure to appeal to the traveler in you. Welcome to a captivating journey from timeless ruins to exotic temples and from lush forests to concrete jungles- each of it fascinating in its own way.

Major Destinations of Odisha

Bhubaneswar- The Temple Town of Odisha

Bhubaneswar’s brilliant architectural heritage teamed with the modern strides of the city; makes it a traveler’s delight. Age-revered temples, ancient caves, and the rich legacy of Buddhist ruins blend seamlessly with the contemporary cafes and swanky malls.

Major Attractions of Bhubaneswar

• Lingaraja Temple- 11th century ancient Shiva Temple
• Mukteswar Temple- 10th century Shiva Temple
• Parasurameswara Temple
• Dhauli Hill- Buddhist Ruins
• Rajrani Temple- 11th century temple with Khajuraho-styled erotic symbolism.
• Udayagiri & Khandgiri Caves- 1st century BC caves, a marvel of stone carving
• Odisha State Museum

Puri- A Religious and Cultural Juggernaut

Swarming with pilgrims, vacationers and offbeat travelers; Puri is synonymous with the Jagannath Temple and its fascinating chariot festival. Its gorgeous beaches thronged by holidaymakers, believers and sand art enthusiast; call for a perfect holiday in the sun and the sand.

Major Attractions of Puri

• Jagannath Temple- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Chariot Festival (Rath Yatra) celebrated in the months of June or July
• Puri Beach- Celebrated for captivating sand art
• Model Beach
• Gundicha Ghar Temple
• Atharnala Bridge- A 13th century artistic bridge built by the rulers of Ganga Dynasty

Konark- An Architectural Marvel

Konark’s significance lies in the glorious Sun Temple, built sometime in the 13th century by the Ganga Dynasty rulers. This shore temple, known to be called the Black Pagoda by the ancient sailors, now lies in ruins, but its eternal glory shines like the brilliant radiance of the sun.

Major Attractions of Konark

• Sun Temple- A UNESCO-preserved Heritage Site.
• Archaeological Site Museum-Showcases the fallen sculptures of the Sun Temple and other excavated relics.
• Ramachandi Temple- Dedicated to Goddess Ramachandi
• Kuruma-Buddhist ruins from 8th & 9th century BC

Chilika Lake- The Eco Wonder

Asia’s largest brackish lagoon, Chilika Lake is a favorite wintering ground for birds from across the world. During peak season, Chilika offers its visitors, a spectacular display of avian acrobatics performed by over 150 species of birds of vivid colors.
Flamingos, pelicans, painted storks, fish eagles, ospreys and kites, many of them migrants from Siberia, Iran and the Himalayas; flock its shores in winter months.  A wealth of marine ecology, Chilika is particularly known for its Irrawaddy dolphins.

Fairs and Festivals of Odisha

• Durga Puja- Venerating goddess Durga and her many forms
• Kalinga Mahotsav, Bhubaneswar- A Martial Dance Festival
• Puri Rath Yatra- The Chariot Festival of Jagannath Temple
• Puri Beach Festival- Celebrating exotic sand art
• Konark Dance Festival- Celebrating Odishi form of classical dance
• Chhau Festival- Celebrating tribal heritage of Odisha

Shopping in Odisha

Odisha is a cradle of aesthetic arts. Tussar & Sambalpuri silk saris, Dhokra metal ware, palm leaf paintings, shell-crafts, stone carvings, and silver filigree works are some of its handcrafted specialties. 

Food in Odisha

Fish and rice form the staple diet in Odisha. Prawn curry, fish curry, and lentils with veggies; all are served with rice for a tummy satiating experience. Sweeten your taste buds with the local cheese cake known as Chenna Poda.

Best Time to Visit

Winter months from October to March are best for visiting Odisha. However, those interested in the colorful spectacle of the Puri Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) should visit in June-July, the exact dates depending on the lunar calendar.
Come and explore this beautiful state and rejoice in its many destinations and attractions. Our Odisha Tour takes you through its magnificent temples, tribal culture and teeming wildlife. Do contact us for customized tour packages for your family & friends.