#odisha_architecture

[besttripservice]

Places you must visit in Odisha

Ever heard of Odisha? Odisha state is known for its ancient temples and architecture and the age-old reign of the Kalinga empire. This state is located in the eastern part of the Indian peninsula and the Bay of Bengal lies to its east. The ancient temples of Odisha date back over 2000 years.

These are some famous places in Odisha:

Lingaraj Temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneshwar. It was built by King Jajati Keshari in the 10th Century and completed by King Lalatendu Keshari in the 11th Century. This temple represents the pinnacle of Kalinga architecture, completing the mediaeval stages of the architectural tradition in Bhubaneswar.

Non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the temple. However, tourists can get a good view of the entire temple complex and take photos from a raised platform just outside the temple complex.

Konark Sun Temple

It is a 13th-century Sun temple at Konark, a town in the district of Puri in Odisha.  It is a UNESCO World Heritage site which is famous for its unique Kalinga architecture includes a depiction of a 100 ft high chariot being pulled by horses and wheels carved out of a single stone. One can witness three images of the Sun God in three directions to catch the rays of the Sun at dawn, noon and sunset.

Golden Beach

It is among the cleanest beaches in India and has earned the most prestigious Blue Flag certification. It is about 2 km away from the Jagannath Temple in Puri. The beach also has basic facilities like bathing and changing facilities, toilet and drinking water facilities. There are many hotels, restaurants, and resorts around this beach. In addition, it is one of the safest beaches since Puri police officers constantly monitor the area to ensure the safety of tourists and locals.

Nandankanan Zoo

It is one of Asia's largest zoos and is India's first zoo with a white tiger safari. It is home to approximately 1660 individual animals representing 166 species, including 67 mammal species, 81 bird species, and 18 reptile species. There is a lot to discover at this large zoo. You can take a boat ride on Kanjia Lake or visit the Souvenir Shop, which sells a variety of local handicrafts and gift items.

Jagannath Temple

It is an important Hindu temple dedicated to Jagannath which is a form of Vishnu. The temple was built in the 12th century by King Chodaganga. The construction of the temple was completed by Anangabhima Deva in 1174 AD. It is famous for its Rath Yatra and other chariot festivals in which three principal deities are pulled on huge and elaborately decorated temple cars. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites which every Hindu must visit to attain Moksha.

Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

Also known as Kattaka Caves or Cuttack caves, are partly natural and partly artificial caves of archaeological, historical and religious importance situated on adjacent hills of Udaygiri and Khandagiri hills. These caves were built around the 2nd century BCE during the reign of King Kharavela of the Meghavahana dynasty. These caves were carved out as residences for the Jain monks.

Chandrabagha Beach

It is one of the finest beaches on the eastern coast of India. It is located at a distance of 3 km from the Konark temple. This beach offers boating and camel riding services. It is also known for the Sand Art Festival which is held every year from the 1st of December to the 5th of December when renowned sand artists across the globe gather to exhibit their talents. Every year a Magamela fair is held at this beach on Magha Saptami. The beach offers a variety of activities, including swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.

Barabati Fort

Barabati Fort was built by Raja Anangabhimadeva III, of the Eastern Gangas at the beginning of the 13th century. The ruins of the old Barabati Fort lie on the right bank of the Mahanadi, in the western part of Cuttack city. Historians claim that Barabati Fort once housed a nine-storey palace. The monument was built with fortification as a defence to protect Kattaka (Cuttack) against enemy attacks.

Chilika Lake

It is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon which is spread over the Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha state on the east coast of India. It is the biggest lake in India after Vembanad Lake. Chilika is home to some of the country's largest flocks of migratory birds, especially during the winter. It is  the real paradise for the bird-lovers and ornithologists as it attracts numerous aquatic birds.

Dhauli Giri Hills

Also known as Dhauli is a hill located on the banks of the river Daya, 8 km south of Bhubaneswar in Odisha. It is known for "Dhauli Santi Stupa", which is a peace pagoda. The famous Kalinga war was fought in Dhauli. The bloodshed on the battlefield and the River Daya is said to have turned the waters red. The aftermath of the war deeply affected King Ashoka, who later embraced Buddhism and became a propagator of peace.

Final Note

These are the places that you must not miss when you visit Odisha. Odisha tourism is known for the holy pilgrimage visits by the Hindu communities in India every year. Since Odisha was an old empire of Kalinga, you will find many temples and monuments with Kalinga architecture. Odisha also has many beaches where you can spend some quality time with your friends and family. Are you planning a trip to Odisha? Best Trip has the best travel services for you at the best prices. We strive to give you the best travel experience.

#odisha_tourism #odisha_state #odisha_architecture