Odisha
Temples, tribal culture and coastline
Odisha, on India's eastern Bay of Bengal coast, is home to the 13th-century Sun Temple at Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the form of a colossal stone chariot, and the Jagannath Temple at Puri, one of Hinduism's four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites, whose annual Rath Yatra chariot festival draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims.
Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish-water lagoon, hosts one of the largest wintering grounds for migratory birds on the Indian subcontinent and a resident population of Irrawaddy dolphins. Odisha's tribal population, including the Kondh and Santhal communities, remains among the largest of any Indian state, and its distinctive Odissi classical dance and Pattachitra scroll painting reflect a continuous artistic tradition stretching back over a thousand years.
Curated Experiences
Our journeys in India.
Popular Attractions
3 places
Attraction
Jagannath Temple, Puri
Jagannath Temple, Puri: the 12th-century Char Dham shrine of Lord Jagannath, home of the Rath Yatra chariot festival.
Attraction
Konark Sun Temple
Konark Sun Temple, Odisha: a 13th-century temple carved as the chariot of the sun god Surya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Attraction
Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake, Odisha: India's largest brackish water lagoon, known for Irrawaddy dolphins and winter migratory birds.
Travel Information
Best Time to Visit
October–March
Other Districts in India
Stories from Odisha
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