Quick Facts
- Capital: Bhubaneswar
- Largest City: Bhubaneswar
- Official Language: Odia
- Formation: 1 April 1936
- Nicknames: “Soul of India”
- Borders: West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh
- UNESCO Sites: Sun Temple, Konark
Contents
History & Heritage
Odisha, formerly known as Kalinga, has a rich cultural and historical heritage, including the famous Kalinga War of Ashoka.
- Kalinga War: Transformed Emperor Ashoka to Buddhism.
- Temples: Lingaraj, Jagannath, Sun Temple (Konark).
- Maritime Trade: Ancient links with Southeast Asia.
Geography & Climate
Odisha is known for its coastal plains, rivers, and forested regions.
- Rivers: Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani.
- Climate: Tropical, with hot summers and heavy monsoons.
Top Places to Visit (Handpicked)
- Puri: Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach.
- Konark: Sun Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
- Bhubaneswar: Lingaraj Temple, Udayagiri Caves.
- Chilika Lake: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.
- Simlipal National Park: Wildlife sanctuary.
- Cuttack: Barabati Fort and silver filigree work.
- Raghurajpur: Pattachitra art village.
Festivals of Odisha
- Rath Yatra: Grand chariot festival of Jagannath.
- Durga Puja: Vibrant celebrations across the state.
- Puri Beach Festival: Cultural extravaganza.
- Konark Dance Festival: Classical dance performances.
Cuisine – What to Eat
Odisha cuisine is simple, nutritious, and largely temple-influenced.
- Staples: Rice, dalma (lentils with vegetables).
- Sweets: Rasgulla (originated here), chhena poda.
- Seafood: Fish curry, prawn malai curry.
Arts, Handicrafts & Culture
- Pattachitra paintings and stone carvings.
- Silver filigree work (Tarakasi) of Cuttack.
- Classical dance Odissi, temple architecture.
Adventure & Wildlife
- Bird watching at Chilika Lake.
- Trekking in Simlipal and Satkosia.
- Beach camping in Puri and Gopalpur.
How to Reach
- By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar).
- By Rail: Bhubaneswar and Puri stations.
- By Road: NH16 connects major cities.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is the best period to visit Odisha.
Sample Itineraries
3 Days – Bhubaneswar & Puri
- Day 1: Bhubaneswar temples & caves.
- Day 2: Puri – Jagannath Temple & beach.
- Day 3: Konark Sun Temple & return.
4 Days – Coastal Odisha
- Day 1: Bhubaneswar.
- Day 2: Puri & Chilika Lake.
- Day 3: Konark & Raghurajpur.
- Day 4: Cuttack & return.
Famous Personalities
- Biju Patnaik: Former Chief Minister and freedom fighter.
- Sudarsan Pattnaik: World-renowned sand artist.