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Orissa Tourism

Konark Temple in Konark

Orissa - The Coastal Heritage of India

Nestling on the eastern side of India, Orissa is referred to as the 'Soul of India'. Covering an area of 1,55, 700 sq. km, Orissa has a vast coastlines adjacent to Bay of Bengal extending to 482 Km. Once the kingdom of Kalinga, the state has a rich and dramatic history that could survived the ravages of time in form of its rich culture and heritage that is supreme. No matter how much time you spend in Orissa, it always feel insufficient. Home to some of the most sacred temples of India, rich wildlife sanctuaries, unhampered tribal culture and pristine beaches, Orissa is a state where dreams are stitched with reality. For the last few years, Orissa has dramatically changed into one of best places for tourism.

Orissa once served as the great Kingdom of Kalinga. The most chapter of Orissa history spanning a period of 2000 years, is the famous Kalinga war that changed the entire facet of the state. After the Kalinga war, the situations and sights made Emperor Ashoka choose the path of non-violence and follow Buddhism. This established the religion of Buddhism in Orissa. It was from here, Buddhism was spread to far and wide places. Jainism too flourished in Orissa for quite long before Hinduism became the major religion of the state. Like many other states Orissa too had to go through the period of invasion and oppression. The attack by Afghan ruler Kalapahad had the greatest impact on Orissa during the medieval period. Orissa had its golden years around the 12th century, when great kings like Chodaganga Dev and Ananga Bhimadev ruled Orissa. The magnificent Jagannatha Temple too was build in the same era. In 1803, British took over Orissa from Marathas.

Orissa can easily be called as the temple state of India. Believe it or not, there easily could be more temples in Orissa than there are in entire India. With temples like Jagannatha Temple and Sun Temple, it cements its place among the most sacred states in India. These temples are not only important in religious aspect, they are an absolute treat to eyes as well. You will see different styles of architecture in the temples. Some are built in Kalinga architectural style whereas some show medieval and Orissan style of architecture.

The culture of Orissa is also something that attracts all enthusiastic travelers. The variety in every aspect of Oriya culture is what mesmerizes the most. The festivals of Orissa like Rath Yatra, showcases everything, the devotion, enthusiasm, energy and spirituality among the people of Orissa. Odissi Dance is the most well known contribution of Orissa to the world of performing arts. To witness a performance of Oddisi Dance in front of you is like watching a dream with open eyes. And if you wish to have this feeling in excess, then Konark Dance festival is what you are craving for.

No Place can be as elegant and as close to history like Orissa. Exploring the famous temples of Orissa is like walking alongside our own past. With such magnificent temples, great beaches and exceptional wildlife sanctuaries, Orissa is state that show you life in all its color and vibrancy.