About Orissa

Each morning the sun breaks over the Konark temple, bringing to life one of the most beautiful states of India - Orissa. The Sun Temple, also known as the black pagoda, was constructed in the 13th century AD.

The beauty of Orissa unravels like a story through its monuments, landscape and the history. Kalinga, as Orissa was known in ancient times, remained unconquered till King Ashoka captured this state.

Orissa has preserved its past in about 500 exquisitely carved temples and monuments. Pilgrims looking for peace and happiness throng Bhubaneshwar and Puri. The annual rath yatra has for years attracted devotees from India and abroad. Konark or the Black Pagoda, with its gorgeous Sun temple, is famous for the beautiful and quite explicit erotic imagery. Lake Chilika is an attraction not only to the tourists but also to the migratory birds. This lake is a treasure house of aquatic flora and fauna.

Odissi, the dance tradition with its origins in Orissa is well known for its beauty, elegance and grace. The intricate mime and rhythm blend giving birth to numerous graceful expressions.

The most popular crafts Patta-Chitra and palm-leaf etching serve as souvenirs from the state.