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The
tropical state of Orissa lies along the eastern seaboard of india, south
of Bengal. Its main attractions are the temples of the capital
Bhubaneshwar, the long sandy beach at Puri and the great Sun Temple at
Konark. These three sites make a convenient and compact triangle. Orissa
is predominantly rural, with fertile green coastal plains rising to the
hills of Eastern Ghats. The state is mineral rich and is a big exporter of
iron ore, with a large factory at Rourkela. The Oriyas, 25% of whom are
indigenous tribal peoples, are particularly friendly and hospitable.
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PURI
Puri is one of the most important pilgrimage centre for the Hindus. The
renowned Jagannath temple built in the 15th century AD and crowned with
Vishnu's wheel and flag dominate the landscape at Puri. The temple with
its elaborate carvings and mouldings are very fine examples of
Kalingan architecture. (Non Hindus are not allowed)
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BHUBANESHWAR
Visit the finest temples - Lingaraj, Rajarani, Mukteswar, Brahmeswar and
Parasurameswar. These temples are some of the best specimens of the
Orissan Temple Architecture.
BHUBANESHWAR - DHAULI HILLS
At
Dhauli Hills visit the Ashokan Edicts. On top of the Dhauli Hill, near the
ancient rock edict is a Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa).
BHUBANESHWAR - KONARK
The
beautiful Sun Temple built in the 13th century in honour of the Sun God,
contains exquisite carvings, life sized lions and elephants, colossal
figures of warriors on horses, scenes of battle and chase - all carved
with great imagination and skill, testify to the high standard of ancient
indian art and engineering skill.
BHUBANESHWAR - UDAIGIRI CAVES
10
kms west of Bhubaneshwar are the Udaigiri Caves, which were occupied by
the Buddhist monks as early as the 2nd century BC.
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