Odisha is a state in the eastern part of India. Formerly known as Orissa, it borders on the Bay of Bengal. The eastern part, close to the sea is more prosperous, with a domination of beaches and temples. The western part is a hilly and forested area, generally drought prone. It is a predominantly tribal belt which throws up some picturesque scenes. Traditionally, Odisha descended from the historical kingdom of Kalinga. The script for the Odia (Oriya) language derives from the Kalinga script which is one of the descendants of the Brahmi script. Although you might find a plethora of tourist guides about this majestical place, we bring you the places you should visit albeit through our lens.
Oh Fish!!
More than just the sun sand and the sea, the Puri beach in Odisha greets you with crisp breeze and lumpy sand. Ignorant and free from the peaks and troughs of urban life. Fishermen venturing out from the sea in groups by trawlers after a day’s catch.
Wild pursuit
Nandankanan Zoological Park the Garden of Heavens’. First zoo in India to join World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Home to Asiatic lion, leapord, white tigers, nilgiri langur an exclusive aquaria and one of its kind reptile park, Nandankanan offers enthralling herbivorous safaris into the woods.
Love for Silk
Explore the textile belt of Odisha with its lovely friendly weavers. Take an excursion trip to Olasingh textile village where I found friendly people who were keen to invite me to see their great work. One can witness here all the steps involved in silk production starting from silk cocoons until the finished product. Odisha is definitely the best place to explore Silk, Tussar fabrics and the Ikat fabrics which are particularly a distinctive feature of Orissan textiles.
Bird Calling
Chilka Lake in Odisha is one of India’s migratory birds paradise. Chilka Lake is very prosperous in aquatic species as its basin area has about 160 various species of crustaceans, fish and many more marine lives. To catch the splendid marine life glimpses, numerous fishing boats can be seen in the lake to bring the day’s catch. A must visit for bird lovers.
Sun Temple
Built in the 13th century AD, Konark temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Sun god. The Sun Temple of Konark marks the highest point of achievement of Kalinga architecture depicting the Grace and the boundless creative energy of Orissan artistes and their impressive contribution to the treasury of Indian Art.
Buddham Sharanam Gachaami!!
As the result of the famous Kalinga War, the water of the River Daya got red, making Ashoka understand the gloomiest side of a battle turning him into the propagator of peace. Thus Dhauli became a major Buddhist centre, when he built several chaityas, stupas and pillars here. The marvelous Shanti Stupa or Peace Pagoda is also located here.
So, now when you go visiting Odisha, let us know of other places you might come to know about.
