ODISHA

Odisha located in eastern India is popular tourist destination known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, beaches and natural beauty. Odisha has an area of 5287 kms, 30 districts and a population of over 33 million people. Odia is the official language of Odisha.

Culture Of Odisha

The culture of Odisha plays a key part in Odisha Tourism. Odisha has a rich culture and tradition that is represented in its people, food, art and architecture. The state has also been home to some of the most renowned artists of India. There are many festivals which celebrate the harvest season or mark special occasions like Holi or Durga Puja. Some of these include Maha Kumbh Mela (the largest religious gathering on Earth) and Kudremukh National Park Festival.

The culture of Odisha is rich in heritage and tradition. It is a place where people live in harmony and peace. The people here are friendly and cooperative. Their hospitality towards guests is unmatched. The state is blessed with natural beauty and scenic places. The climate of the region is pleasant throughout the year. There are many tourist attractions in Odisha. The state is known for its ancient temples and historical monuments. One can enjoy boating along the rivers, trekking in the hills and valleys, fishing in the lakes and indulging in water sports. The state is well connected with major cities of India. Many people visit the state to experience the rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscape of the state.

Festivals Celebrated in Odisha

Odisha has many festivals celebrated throughout the year. Here are some of them:

1)Dola Purnima - It is a Hindu festival that falls on the full moon day in the month of Phalgun. It is a spring festival also known as Holi, celebrated in Odisha. Dola Purnima is considered to be an auspicious day for Hindus. Hindus offer prayers to Krishna and take part in various religious rituals. The main attraction of the festival is the procession of lord Krishna.

2)Raja Sankranti - Raja Sankranti is a popular Hindu festival that is celebrated in many parts of India. It is also the festival of Makar Sankranti. It is celebrated on the 14th of January every year. The festival is celebrated to mark the beginning of the solar cycle. People celebrate the festival by flying kites, taking baths in holy rivers, eating special food and performing various rituals. People worship the Sun God and offer prayers to him.

3)Maha Shivaratri - It is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of the god Shiva. The word Shivaratri means “the great night of Shiva”. It is believed that on this night, Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation, preservation and destruction. This festival is celebrated on the 13th night/14th day of the Hindu month of Phalguna. The celebrations of Maha Shivaratri begin with a special puja or worship ceremony in the evening. Rudra Abhishek, which is a special puja involving the pouring of holy water on the lingam is performed.

4)Rama Navami - Rama Navami is a spring Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of the god Rama. It is also known as Rama Jayanti. Rama Navami is a one-day festival, typically occurring on the ninth day of the Hindu lunar calendar month of Chaitra. On this day Rama was born. The Rama Navami festival marks the end of the nine-day-long festival of Navratri, and also the beginning of the Hindu new year. On Rama Navami, Hindus all over the world celebrate the birth of Rama by fasting, singing devotional songs, reading the Ramayana, and performing special puja (worship) ceremonies.

5)Jagannath Rath Yatra - It is also known as the Chariot Festival, is a Hindu festival dedicated to the god Jagannath. It commemorates the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra from their temple in Puri to the Gundicha Temple. It falls on the second day of the bright half in the month of Ashada. The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a symbolic representation of Lord Jagannath’s annual visit to his birthplace Gundicha Temple. The three deities are placed on separate chariots, which are pulled by devotees. The Rath Yatra festival is observed for a period of nine days.

6)Durga Puja - is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Dussehra is celebrated over a period of ten days, culminating in the Vijayadashami. A group of performers enacts the story of the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon king Mahishasura. On the tenth and final day of the festival, the Vijayadashami or Dussehra day, effigies of the demon king Mahishasura are burnt in public squares across Odisha. This signifies the victory of good over evil and is a symbolic reminder of the power of the goddess Durga.

Famous Food - Authentic Odia Food is a key part of Odisha Tourism. A typical Oriya meal includes rice, dal, vegetables, salad, pickles and chutneys. It is also famous for its sweets made with milk, cottage cheese, khoya, jaggery and fruits. The coastal region of Odisha is famous for its seafood. The most popular dish of this region is the Macha Jholo. The hilly region of Odisha is famous for its use of spices. The most popular dish of this region is the Dalma. Other popular dishes include the Aloo Curry, Potato Curry and the Egg Curry. The central region of Odisha is known for its sweet dishes. The most popular dish of this region is the Rasagulla, which is cottage cheese and khoya balls cooked in syrup. Other popular dishes include the Gulab Jamun, Jalebi and Kheer. Chena podo is dessert which is typically served warm or cold and can be garnished with nuts or dried fruits. Chena podo is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert.

Best Places to Visit

One of the must-visit places is the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri. This temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
Another popular destination is the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent temple is dedicated to the Sun God.
Chilika Lake is also a must-visit destination. This sprawling brackish water lagoon is home to a variety of migratory birds and is a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can also take boat rides to explore the lake and its many islands.
The city of Bhubaneswar is also worth a visit, with its many ancient temples and architectural wonders. The Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswara Temple, and Rajarani Temple are must visit temples in this city.
Konark Beach is a perfect place to unwind and relax, with its golden sand and serene surroundings. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the beach.
One of the must-visit places is the famous Sambalpur city, known for its beautiful handloom sarees and textiles. The Hirakud Dam, one of the longest dams in the world, is also located in Sambalpur.
Bargarh city is known for its many ancient temples and monuments, including the famous Nrusinghanath Temple and the Danta Ambika Temple. The Gandhamardan Hills offer a great opportunity for trekking and hiking. These hills are also home to the famous Harishankar Temple, a popular pilgrimage site for devotees. Another popular destination is the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary offers visitors a chance to go on jeep safaris and nature walks.
The Balangir district is home to some stunning waterfalls, including the Harishankar Falls and the Ranipur Jharial Waterfalls. These waterfalls offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind in the midst of nature’s beauty.
Simlipal Tiger Reserve located in the Mayurbhanj district is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards, and offers visitors a chance to go on jungle safaris and nature walks. The Barehipani and Joranda Waterfalls are two of the most stunning waterfalls in Odisha.
Another popular destination is the Emami Jagannath Temple, located in Balasore. This temple is a modern architectural marvel, built in the traditional Kalinga style and adorned with intricate carvings and artwork. The Jhadeshwar Beach is also worth a visit. This serene beach is known for its clear blue waters and pristine surroundings, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
The city of Baripada is known for its many ancient temples and monuments, including the famous Jagannath Temple and the Maa Ambika Temple.
Popular destination is the city of Berhampur, known for its many ancient temples and monuments. The Taratarini Temple, Maa Bhairavi Temple, and the Mahuri Kalua Temple are some must-visit temples.
Gopalpur Beach is known for its clean sandy shores and serene surroundings, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The Taptapani Hot Spring, located in the Ganjam district. This is believed to have therapeutic properties and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The Koraput district in Odisha is a hidden gem, known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and ancient temples. Deomali Hills is the highest peak in Odisha. Visitors can go on trekking and hiking expeditions. The Duduma Waterfalls, located on the Machkund River offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind in the midst of nature’s beauty, surrounded by lush green forests and dramatic landscapes.