The land of elaborate temples and turtles, often a bypassed gem is protected by the Eastern ghats has heavy rainfall which makes it beautifully lush & fertile. Rice fields stand bordered by banana & coconut palms, and the thatched hand painted mud huts are fronted by large ponds. There are riches of gems & nickel, still virtually untapped. Less well known are the 62 tribes of varying culture, size & dialect whose traditions can be witnessed on a guided tour. Handicrafts are much in evidence and use a wealth of unique techniques.
It is the industrial centers that have produced Orissa`s recent upsurge in prosperity, in contrast to its former status as one of India`s poorest states.
Hot Spots
Bhubaneshwar
Temple city, capital of the state of Orissa and the ancient kingdom of Kalinga quintessence of the present and the past, Bhubaneswar`s bustling modernity reverberates with echoes of the past.
Approaching Bhubaneswar, by air, road or rail, one is struck by the magnificence of the three monuments which dominate its skyline- the soaring spire of the Lingaraj Temple, the white-domed Peace Pagoda of Dhauli hills and the Ochre temple of Mahavir Jina on the Khandagiri hills. These three epitomise the advent and ascendancy of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism during different periods of Orissan history.

Konark
This crowning piece of Orissan Architecture and Sculpture, built in the 13th century A.D., the golden era of Orissan art, is a poetry in stone and a world heritage monument. The Mukhashala, or entrance hall continues to interest both devotees and visitors. The walls of this magnificent ruin have exquisite sculptures covering many aspects of life. Scenes of love and war, trade and court transactions, hunting, catching of elephants, teaching of sages, amorous dalliances, dancers and mythical figures- all vie for attention on the panels and niches of this immortal work of art.

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Cuttack
Cuttack, the city of over 1000 years built by King Ananga Vim Dev III is situated at the apex of the delta formed by the rivers Mahanadi and Kathajodi at an altitude of 14.62 metres above the sea level .The former Capital of the State, also known as the "Silver City" for it`s exquisite filigree and silver ware, Cuttack offers varried attractions to the visitors.

Puri

Just the place to witness and take part in colourful festivals round the year, Puri is famous for its celebrated annual festival of chariots, the Ratha Yatra. Held in the beginning of the monsoon it has been attracting pilgrims and tourists for centuries.
Abode of Lord Jagannath, literally Lord of the World, Puri is one of the four holiest places in India. Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, it has one of the finest beaches in India. This pilgrimage town is also the home of artisans and craftsmen who produce a wide range of unique handicrafts.