Orissa presents a contrasting picture of ancient splendour and contemporary monuments. A tourist triangle is formed by the cities of Bhubaneshwar, Konarak and Puri.

Best Period to Visit:
Sept- Mar.

Places to visit:

Bhubaneshwar-
Bhubaneshwar is the capital of Orissa and is among the holiest cities in India.
Parushramesvara is Bhubaneshwar's oldest temple. It has an elaborately sculptured exterior and delicate latticed windows. Mukteshvara is a ninth century AD temple with a strong Buddhist influence in its sculpture. Lingaraja Temple was built in the 10th century. It has a statesque 52 metre tower which is covered by delicate carvings. Rajarani Temple, Vaital Deul and Bralmeshwar temple are worth visiting.

Konarak-
is famous for the Sun Temple built in the 13th century. It is hardly matched by any other Indian temple in its sheer architectural splendour. The Sun Temple is fashioned as a chariot driven by seven pairs of horses standing next to the sea. The ruins of the dance hall, assembly , sanctum and the pair of 'gajasimhas' are impressive.
Dhauli- is the place where Lord Ashoka turned to Buddhism. Rani Gumpha and Hathi Gumpha are interesting for their historical aspects and architecture.

Puri-
is known for its Jagannatha Temple and is one of India's four holiest cities. It has a majestic tower, Hall of offerings, Dance Hall, Assembly Hall and Sanctum. Millions of pilgrims and tourists come to see the famed Rath Yatra Festival. The beach at Puri is quite breath-taking.

Chilika Lake encloses a cluster of marsh land and is home of some rare migratory birds from Siberia.

Chandipore-
is a lovely quiet beach spread across six kilometres. Balasore was an imporant trading centre in historical times.

Simplipal National Park has rich tribal culture and is home of the the Bengal tiger, leopard, elephant and antelope.The Bhitarkanika Sanctuary has salt water crocodiles and water-monitor lizards. Dangamala is home to the white crocodile, only second of its kind in the world. The Gahirmatha is a breeding ground for Pacific Ridley turtles. More than seven million turtles swim across the seas from South America.

Lalithagiri, Ratnagiri and Pushpagiri are ancient seats of Buddhist learning and worth visiting.

Orissa state Museum houses beautiful sculptures, ancient manuscripts and artefacts.

Arts & Crafts: 
Applique work. Terracotta toys. Papier mache masks. Bell-metal craft. Wax work (dhokra work). Patachitra (paper or cloth paintings) Gold and silver filigree work. Oriyan silk.