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Top 5 things to do in Orissa

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Our country has some hidden gems, which are worth exploring at a reasonable budget.  I would recommend Orissa and the key reasons behind endorsing the state are:

a)Aarti at the Bay of Bengal- The Bay Of Bengal was called Kalinga Sagar before British Era. The Samudra aarti was a sacred tradition started By Sankracharya in the 9th century, and it is religiously followed till date.

In the evening, Puri beach comes alive, a group of priests descends on the beach to perform an aarti ceremony. They are praying to the mighty Bay of Bengal, for protection and benevolence. I have witnessed the Ganga Aarti multiple times, but this is an altogether different experience.

It is a spiritual moment, most of the crowd join the ritual. There is a night market, one can buy a souvenir, to commemorate the travel.

It is interesting to note that almost 31% of the world fisherman population derives their livelihood from the Bay of Bengal.

b) Chilka Lake- Chilka Lake is located 37 kms from Puri. It is Asia’s largest saltwater lagoon, if you are an avid bird watcher, then this is the place for you, One can see many migratory birds especially flamingos. Not only this, but if you are lucky enough, you can also locate dolphins.

A word of advice, while visiting Chilka, your boatman may stop his boat on a remote island for rest purporse. Few local people will try to sell pearls, they will pick the sea shell and break it in front of you, showcasing the pearl, nestled inside it. They are going to ask exorbitant price for the same, do remember those pearls are fake and not authentic. Don’t fall for the trap.

 

c)Orissa State Museum, Bhubaneshwar- All history buffs, this is the place for you. There are archeological treasures from the 6th century onwards. I was amazed to find small rocks on which, incidents from Ramayan, Puran were depicted. This museum will enlighten you about the rich heritage culture of our country.

One can also find the coins which were minted in India from time immemorial.

d) Konark Temple- We all have heard about this 13th century temple, which is dedicated to Sun God. When I visited most of the part was cordoned off, as repair work was on. The temple boasts of Kalinga architecture. The Kalinga dynasty at some point in time was one of the most powerful dynasties which ruled India. The Konark Temple showcases the architecture marvel of India. It is believed when the King of Vijaynagar Deva Raya saw the temple, he wanted to build something on similar lines in his kingdom too, that’s how Hampi came in place.

Do hire a guide; you will hear some interesting stories about the Kalinga empire.

 

e) Oriya Craft,Pipli If you are looking for some good Oriyan craft, then visit Pipli. Here one can find decorative wallets, pouches, umbrellas, lampshades etc.

14 Comments
  1. Linda (LD Holland) says

    I love the chance to see local ceremonies when we travel. We would definitely head to Puri beach and watch the priests praying to the Bay of Bengal. A great way to honour fishermen and their value to the community. Thanks for the tip about hiring a guide to get more information when you visit the Konark Temple. We sometimes try to tour on our own and wonder what secrets we missed.

  2. Mimmie Human says

    The Kalinga architecture is amazing. Sure it was very interesting.

  3. Raksha says

    I have visited only the state museum in this list and I must say I absolutely loved it. So much history and artefacts. I wish to go back to Orissa and explore more. I would love to visit the other places too.

  4. Liz says

    I would love to visit the Konark Temple! It looks so interesting and tons of history behind it.

  5. Sandy N Vyjay says

    We love Orissa and have been there a few times. The state is so rich in heritage and culture. We love the Puri beach and of course the Konark Sun temple, which we have visited at least 3 times. On our last visit we had been to Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary, which is really amazing.

  6. Kelly says

    A visit to the Bay of Bengel to see the Aarti would be amazing. I love experiencing and learning about different religions.

  7. Renata - bye:myself says

    This reminds me of a ceremony I had the chance to witness in Bali a couple of years ago. I love doing this since the world is far too globalized anyway. Hence, I so appreciate it when people preserve culture and heritage.

  8. Nicole says

    I’d love to visit Konark Temple. I’ve heard so much about this beautiful temple but didn’t get chance to visit during my travels round Asia… next time though

  9. Linda says

    Experiencing local ceremonies and festivals is my favorite part of traveling! Orissa looks like a beautiful place to explore! Love the temples!

  10. Florin Marian Suciu says

    very pretty and inspiring. thanks for this!

  11. Sundeep says

    I really want to see Aarti at the Bay of Bengal. These are some amazing place to visit especially Pipli. As a craft lover we really don’t want to miss this place for sure. Adding Orissa to my messy bucket list.

  12. Carol Colborn says

    That is such an interesting fact about the Bay of Bengal. I would be drawn to the aarti. The scene would be so nostalgic.

  13. Mark and Chuck's Adventures says

    Great blog post. Not a part of the country we got to visit. We’d love to get to the Bay of Bengal.

  14. Medha Verma says

    I can’t believe I have not been to Orissa. I spent 25 years in India before moving to Dubai and actually travelled quite extensively except in the east. I would love to attend the arti at Bay of Bengal and visit Chilka Lake as well. I hope I’m able to make it there soon, one of my closest friends is from there!

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