Every year September 27 is celebrated as World Tourism Day. While the day is observed to shed light on the importance of a locality from tourism point of view, it, at the same time, lays emphasis on how the financial condition of the local populace would increase through tourism. Every year it is observed with a theme and this year’s theme is ‘Tourism and Jobs: A Better Future for All’.
On this occasion, let’s go around Odisha – a treasure trove of handicrafts and handlooms, the land of ancient temples depicting architectural marvels and, of course, pristine beaches and captivating sanctuaries.
Let’s start with Bhubaneswar
The capital city of Odisha is also known as the temple city. It gets this moniker for the very reason that it is dotted with temples. It is home to the temples built on Kalinga style of architecture. The temples worth visiting are Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswar Temple, Parasuramewar Temple and Rajarani Temple. These apart, Dhauli peace pagoda, Udaygiri and Khandagiri caves dating back to 2nd century BCE and Nandankanan Zoological Park are among the major tourist attractions here.
Let’s go to Puri next
Puri is one of the four dhams in India and is known as a pilgrimage city. Apart from its awe-inspiring Jagannath temple, its sea beach is irresistible.
The nearby destination is Konark. It is famous for the black pagoda. It is said to be the last word in Kalinga style of temple architecture. This site is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple, built for Sun god, is designed as a chariot driven by seven horses. Giant wheels, horses, and sculptures and erotic carvings on the wall of the temple are amongst its major draws.
Another place of importance is Pipili. It is known as a tremendous handicrafts market for appliqué. While moving along the road, you can see appliqué artisans at work and can pick one or two as a souvenir.
The next place is Chilka
It is the largest brackish water lake in Asia. It is also famous for being the resting place of large numbers of migratory birds during the Indian winter. It has been a paradise for bird lovers who come from all around the world to experience the massive congregation.
Let’s go to the wildlife sanctuaries
There are 18 sanctuaries in the state. The most popular among them are Bhitarkanika National Park, Chandaka Sanctuary, Nalabana or Chilka Sanctuary, Tiger Reserve, Satakosia or Tikarapara Sanctuary and Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary. Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is known as a nesting ground for the vulnerable olive ridley sea turtle.
The next visiting spot is Cuttack
The city is called a millennium city. Once you are here, you will fall in love with the city instantly. The places that attract you most are Fort of Barabati and Ansupa Lake. And here you are sure to come across an array of mouth watering delicacies that you cannot resist. The famous one is ‘Dahi Bara and Aludam’.
If you are in Odisha, your visit is always incomplete without Chandipur in Balasore district and Gopalpur in Gajnam district. Chandipur’s charming beaches, a few temples and amazing seafood are its identities.
The highlight of the place is its ‘disappearing sea’. Here you can see the marching sea going five kilometres away. Similarly, Gopalpur is famous for its beaches and seaside activities. The major attractions her are Dhabaleshwar Beach and Haripur Sea Beach.
