Each district and corner of Odisha is unique in every sense, and has varied landscape, different cultures, which can elevate the curiosity of any regular traveler to see more and learn more about the region.

Talking about some really interesting facts and facets of Odisha, we’ve got some little and big things about this state which make it even more spectacular. You may not know but the ancient rocks of Mayurbhanj date back to 3 billion years old. It’s a fascinating fact because earth itself is 4.5 billion years old. In Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, there are around 600 temples, owing to the fact that this city is also renowned as the “Temple City.”

The tribal communities of Odisha are no secret. But what’s not known is the fact that there are more than 62 distinct tribal groups in Odisha and each have their own culture and traditions. Plan your tribal tour with us.

Lord Jagannath is revered all around the world, yet Odisha is blessed to have the Lord’s abode in its Puri district. Surprisingly, the Jagannath Temple here, houses the world’s biggest kitchen, where everyday food is being cooked by 400 cooks for a minimum of 2 lakhs devotees.

Chilika Lake of Odisha is a birdwatcher’s paradise, but did you know it’s also the saltwater lagoon in the world? Yes, that’s true you can spot the rare migratory birds here, endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, and also let the world know, about this spectacular fact of Chilika.

While the list of what only Odisha is comprised of is still on, we’d like to bring to light the fact that this state has the only leaning temple of the world, which is the “Leaning Temple of Huma”, situated in the Sambalpur district. Not just that, this district is also home to the Hirakud Dam, which is fourth largest in the world, besides being the longest earthen dam in the world as well as the largest artificial lake of Odisha.

The state’s pristine beaches are so amazing and serene, that it can give even the beaches of Goa a run for their money. Especially the Chandipur beach is so special, that it’s termed as Odisha’s hide-and-seek beach, because of the fact that it appears and disappears with every high and low tide, to an approximate of 5 kms.

Being a state of enchanting wildlife, Odisha is also renowned for its world’s largest saltwater crocodile in the Bhitarkanika Park, apart from being a home to the white tigers at Nandankanan Zoological Park, and also for being the breeding ground of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles at the Gahirmatha Beach of Kendrapada district.

With so much uniqueness to the state, one cannot miss out on visiting Odisha, and experiencing the multiple joyous moments which Odisha is best known for, and all the breathtaking views which it provides.

For an amazing tour of this state, book your odisha tour package today.

The post There’s Something About Odisha Tour Which Cannot Be Found In Any Other State first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

In spite of being a small town, Konark is also reckoned to be one of the country’s archaeological gems. Konark Sun Temple is remarkable and very well known already, visited by people in large numbers from each corner of the world. Chandrabagha beach is another widely visited quiet and lovely beach in Konark, reckoned for its peace and harmony, which is indeed worth to visit for. At Astaranga, as of now one can actually check out a large range of activities as a Port is also coming up at the coastal line. Aside from fishing, salt production is the main occupation of all the villagers and locals in Astaranga. At the time of Civil Disobedience Movement which has been started by Gandhi ji, the Salt Satyagraha reached Astaranga shores in 1930. The locals of the village full-fledged took participation in Salt Satyagraha, protesting against the British orders of banning salt production in India and went for arrest.

Jahania Pir Shrine at Astaranga:

Being synonymous to each other, the famous Jahania Pir Sufi shrine located at the edge of the beach is one of the prime attractions for both Hindu and Muslims coming from all over. There are so many fables that are linked with the Mazaar of famous Saint Makhdum Jahanganst. Few say that the saint came to India after stopping by in Bengal and via Baghdad and in the end settled in Astaranga with his disciples during 15th century AD. Some say that, there was a poor man who used to visit the saint with his son every day to seek his blessings. The Saint asked the young boy to not look back while going and one day, he looked back out of curiosity and that moment Saint vanished. The locals and devotees developed a shrine in his memory and his umbrella and wooden shoes are kept inside the shrine. The tasty kheer made up of rice and milk is served as an offering daily and people visiting there must try it for sure.

Just as an information to all travellers looking forward to be at Astaranga beach in Odisha in coming days, make sure to always go for a customized or pre planned itinerary booked from an authentic travel agent like Best Choice Holiday, to turn your time into a memorable and cherishing one. The Astaranga beach is a beautiful and mesmerising one and is definitely a turn on for tourists and take a dip in the soothing blue water, though make sure to check out it first as many quick sand pits could be there. People prefer to come and visit the beach as a picnic pot, spend some gala time with loved ones, family and friends and one can see so many shopkeepers there making instant cooked meal there, ideal to savour up your taste buds and cravings. Considering the accommodation, people need to stay at Puri, Konark or Bhubaneswar, as per the preference. The nearest airport to Astaranga is Bhubaneswar and the nearest railway station is Puri. What are you thinking now? Get in touch with a travel agent, get your devised itinerary and be ready to be on this journey of a lifetime.

The post Astaranga – The Famous Picnic and Fishing Spot in Odisha first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

Gopalpur Beach – A perfect spot to be visited with family, friends and loved ones to enjoy holidays, spend some gala time with each other. Visitors can bathe in the bubbly and calm sea water at this beach and there are many other engaging activities for the tourists including body massage, cruising, and horse riding. One of the memorable experiences on this beach could be to enjoy the breathtaking and remarkable view of the sunset in evening and even a lot of honeymooners come to this beach and enjoy special moments with one another. Even, simply watching the waves lapping and flowing of water and having coconut water on the beach could render complete contentment to the travellers. The beach is surrounded with white sand dunes, lots of palm and coconut trees and there is an old lighthouse a bit far that still used to blink and known to show directions to the ships heading towards the deep sea.

Taptapani – It is a natural hot spring, visited by tourists in large numbers. Visitors can actually grab a personal experience to enjoy a dip in the warm water at this hot spring and the water is known to have high sulphur content with medicinal properties. In fact, believers from worldwide come and dip in the hot spring water seeking for cures related to skin ailments and pains such as scabies, eczema. The location of the spot is another major reason behind the influx of so many travellers as they are nestled amidst in Eastern Ghats surrounded with temples dedicated to Kandi Mata, a tribal Goddess and Lord Shiva around the vicinity.

Aryapalli Beach – It is another popular beach of Odisha, where tourists can come and seek for peace and solace. The ideal time to visit here is in between the months of October to June. Visitors can even enjoy other leisure and fun activities on this beach including sun bathing, surfing, and swimming.

Maa Tara Tarini Hill Shrine – Known to be counted among one of the oldest shrines of the country, it is located on Kumari Hills, a few km away from Gopalpur coastal town. A lot of devotees prefer to visit here at regular intervals and to get blessings from the divine Maa Goddess. Two Goddesses are there, Maa Tara and Maa Tarini and they are acknowledged as the instances of Adi Shakti.

Pati Sonepur Beach – It is another beautiful and highly visited tourist beaches in Odisha. It is located on the borders of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha and is counted among one of the assets with natural beauty and charm all around. Motor boat services could be availed by the tourists where they are supposed to be taken till Sangam point of the river along with the Bay of Bengal. Aside from this, visitors can enjoy horse ride too on the beach.

How to Reach:

• By Air: To reach Gopalpur beach town, Biju Pattanaik airport in Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport and there is well connectivity from there to other major cities of the country.

• By Train: To reach Gopalpur, the nearest railway station is Berhampur, located at 16 km distance. The railway station is well connected with other prime trains as well that go to and fro through the entire state.

• By Road: Gopalpur town is well connected and could easily be covered via using buses and private taxis. There are car rentals service providers and travel agents offering private cabs and taxis like Best Choice Holiday to visit the place.

There are good accommodations available on the Gopalpur beach assuring to proffer comfy stay. Even, there are refreshments stalls as well as restaurants present nearby the beach offering tasty and yummy cuisine that can treat your taste buds to the core. Planning a trip to Odisha? Want to stay over at Gopalpur beach? Let Best Choice Holiday tour organizer plan your stay and itinerary as per your expectations and you have the best experience of your lifetime.

The post The Beautiful Gopalpur Beach Town in Odisha first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

1- Aryapalli Beach – It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Odisha. Ideal for an adventurous trip, simply enjoy the time with loved ones and special ones here, have a gala time altogether and cherish the great weather, pleasant time under the sun and in water.

2- Chandrabhaga Beach – It is another beautiful beach at an about 3 km distance from the reckoned Konark temple in Odisha. The beach is famous for its leisure walks, glancing at the rising sun from distance, enjoying the sun kissed sand, soothing water and serene beauty all around.

3- Puri Beach – It is among the busiest beaches of Odisha, due to its close proximity to the famous Chaar-dhaams of the Hindus, Jagannath Puri. People come here with devotion and happiness and take purifying dips, whenever they pay a visit there. Around the beach, a large number of kiosks are available and that gives people a great opportunity to shop as well as spend some gala time with family and friends and nearby the sea.

Also Read: Welcome to Odisha – A Perfect Blend of Intriguing Natural Beauty, Beaches, Tribal Culture and History!

4- Ramchandi Beach – A lot of devotees prefer to pay a visit to this beach, and it got its name from the Goddess Ramchandi temple that is situated on the beach side only. It is at an about 7 km distance from Konark temple, and the sun kissed sand and clear crystal water of the beach makes it simply more heavenly.

5- Chandipur Beach – Also been recognized to be as the cleanest beaches of Odisha, it is much serene and peaceful there. The amazing tides and flow of the water at the beach will definitely make you lose self in such magical beauty that only the rarest bemused places can offer.

6- Gahirmatha Beach – It is another offbeat and spectacular beach of Odisha. The beautiful beach is all surrounded with astounding scenery, lush green ambience, and sound of flowing water and waves, and lots more to enlist here. Once you visit there, you will never feel to come back, for sure.

7- Paradeep Beach – This beach is located at the merging point of Bay of Bengal and Mahanadi. Being an important port of Odisha, Paradeep, the glittering golden sand at the beach and the soothing and serene blue water of the amalgamation of two water bodies makes it look-like a heavenly abode, perfect for any nature aficionado. The beach could completely relax the mind, body and soul of anyone and is definitely a must-visit.

8- Gopalpur Beach – Referred also as a sailor’s paradise, it is a quiet and composed beach with serene surroundings. A bit secluded, it is safe and ideal for both sailing and surfing as the smooth sands of the beach merge with the Bay of Bengal waters without any problem. Also, it has a magnificent view of the horizon and one could watch fishermen daily based activities there.

9- Astaranga Beach – The term Astaranga depicts ‘The colours of the setting sun’, as per the local language of Odisha. Living up to the name, the horizon at the beach reflects different shades of orange, yellow, and red that makes the sky appear full with colours and simply magical all around. The crystal clear waters and amazing sands at the beach can amuse and behold anyone.

10- Balaramgadi Beach – This beach lets people to cherish and experience the amazement and charisma of the deep blue seas of Bay of Bengal. It is located at about 2 km distance from Chandipur beach and is always full of travellers and tourists all round the year. The best thing that could be done at this beach is taking a walk at the cold sand.

Odisha is famous and well-known for its clean and crystal clear water beach bodies and coastlines. To see the enchanting and dazzling beauty of the state, a lot of travellers from all around come here and seek to explore more of the Eastern Coast of India and cherish the time being spent with near and dear ones. Looking for a package to Odisha and discover more of the destination? Let Best Choice Holiday organize your tour to Odisha and from next time, you will avail package tours from nowhere else. Stay tuned for more posts!

The post Top 10 Eccentric Beaches in Odisha That Will Make You Say “Wow”! first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

• Cuttack
• Puri
• Berhampur
• Rourkela
• Sambalpur

The state Odisha is 9th largest by area and 11th largest by population. In terms of tribal population, Odisha comes as the 3rd most populated state of India. The wide spoken and official language spoken by the people there is Odia/Oriya. 1st April is been celebrated there as Odisha day, also been known as Utkala Dibasa. The state is surrounded by Jharkhand to North, West Bengal to North-East, Andhra Pradesh to South and Chhattisgarh to West and North-West. The change in the state name from Orissa to Odisha as well as in the language name from Oriya to Odia is been conducted in 2011, by the passage of Constitution Bill, 2010 and Orissa Bill, 2010 in the Parliament. The municipal corporations in Odisha cover:

• Bhubaneswar
• Puri
• Cuttack
• Sambalpur
• Berhampur
• Rourkela

Historical Significance:

Kalinga, the ancient kingdom that was encroached by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka resulting in Kalinga War in 261 BCE, merges with the modern-day Odisha borders. As per the sources, the modern state was built on April 1, 1936, as a British Indian province and comprised especially Odia speaking areas. Even, Kalinga has been mentioned in different ancient texts like Vayu Purana, Mahabharata.

It was the first top-level province/subah that was added to Akbar’s fifteen by Shah Jahan. Having Cuttack as seat on one end, it bordered Bengal, Bihar, and Golconda subahs and other remaining tributary and independent chiefs. The Orissa drought in 1866 led to approximate 1 million deaths and afterwards, many large scale irrigation projects were executed. In year 1912, on 1st April, Bihar and Orissa province was formed and later on 1st April 1936, they got split into individual provinces.

Geography and Climate:

The state Odisha is spread in a wide area of 155,707 km that is 4.87% of the total area of the country along with a coastline of 450 km. It extends on one side with the Subarnarekha River in North to Rushikulya River on the other in South. The famous Chilika Lake is part of the coastal plains, rich in natural fertile silt accumulated because of the major six rivers flowing to the Bay of Bengal covering Budhabalanga, Subarnarekha, Brahmani, Baitarani, Rushikulya and Mahanadi. The state has rolling uplands and plateaus and the highest point is at 1672 metres, known as Deomali.

Climatically, the state experiences 4 meteorological seasons including Winter – January to February, then pre monsoon time – March to May, then South West monsoon time – June to September and last North East monsoon time – October to December.

Also Read: Top 10 Eccentric Beaches in Odisha That Will Make You Say “Wow”!

Must-Visit Places in Odisha:

Konark Sun Temple – Dedicated to Surya Hindu God, it is a 13th century sun temple at Konark, at an about 35 km distance from Puri lying on the coastline of Odisha, India. It has a 100 foot high chariot, backed with many horses and wheels, all carved and made up from stone. The architecture of the temple is symbolic and amazing, with twelve pairs of wheels on the chariot also representing the 12 months of Hindu calendar, in which each month is paired into two cycles depicting Krishna and Shukla.

Jagannath Temple, Puri – It is one of the most popular and mighty Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Vishnu – Jagannath. Located on the eastern coast at Puri in Odisha, it is a widely visited and known pilgrimage destination as well.

Chilika Lake – Spread over the Puri, Ganjam and Khurda districts of Odisha, it is the largest coastal lagoon of the country and the second largest of the world. This brackish water lagoon is at the Eastern coast of India, flowing into Bay of Bengal and at the mouth of Daya River, covering a large area of more than 1,100 km square. Also, it hosts more than different 160 species of birds especially during the peak migratory season.

Puri Beach – It is indeed a beautiful and soul soothing beach in the city of Puri, Odisha. It is well known as a famous tourist destination as well as a Hindu sacred spot. It is also renowned for the annual Puri Beach festival that is supposed to be co-sponsored by the Development Commissioner of Handicrafts, the Indian Ministry of Tourism and Eastern Zonal Cultural Center, Kolkata hosting astounding sand art displays and works.

Lingaraja Temple – Dedicated to Shiva Hindu God, it is one of the oldest temples lying in the capital of Odisha, Bhubaneswar. It is not only referred as the landmark of the city but also as one of the prime tourist spots of the state.

Mukteshwara Temple – Dedicated to Shiva, it is a 10th century famous Hindu temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It is also been referred to as a monument of importance in the study of stylistic development of Hindu temples in the state and is a widely preferred tourist destination.

Bhitarkanika National Park – Located in the Kendrapara district of Odisha, this national park is home to Indian python, saltwater crocodile, darters, black ibis, and different other species of flora and fauna and mangrove species. Known to have the second largest mangrove ecosystem in the country, the national park is surrounded by Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary.

Hirakud Dam – It is famous as the first multipurpose river valley project that has executed after the country’s independence. The dam is constructed across Mahanadi River, located at an approximate distance of 15 km from Sambalpur district in Odisha.

Museum of Tribal Arts and Artefacts – It is a perfect spot for all those folklore, interested to know more of Odisha’s tribal areas and tribes. The galleries display fishing, weaponry, agricultural equipments, bead ornaments, traditional dresses, musical instruments, ornate wine pipes, coin necklaces, heavy silver collars, etc.

Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves – At an about six kilometre west of the state, the beautiful two hills are present with rock-cut shelters and the caves are beautifully carved. The carvings depict the Jain ascetics dated back in 1st century, BC.

Pipli – It is a beautiful and colourful village located at 16 km South-East distance Bhubaneswar, and famous for exquisite wall and door hangings, small mirrors, lampshades, parasols, traditional canopies that hung over the temple Jagannath and others during the festival time.

How to Get In and Around:

• By Train/Plane – There are regular trains from metropolitan cities and others like Delhi, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore and others to Odisha. In the heart of the capital city of Odisha, Bhubaneswar, there is an airport (Biju Patnaik International Airport) with flights operated by all leading airlines and railway station that connected to all the major cities of India.

• By Taxi/Autorickshaw – Private taxis and hired cars are easily available in all important towns and cities. Private autorickshaws are also available, which cost lesser than taxis, so feel free to hire the ones you desire.

What to Buy, Eat and Drink?

Odisha is famous for handicrafts and artwork. Do buy Kataki or Sambalpuri sarees available in tussar, silk or cotton, with Buddhist and Hindu designs printed on them.

Dalma is a special and tasty cuisine of the state, made up of lentil and vegetables under very hygienic conditions. Usually, breads are served as the main course including rotis and parattas for breakfast, rice with lentil during lunch and dinner time. Most of the Orissa desserts are made up of milk, cottage cheese/chhenna, rice, wheat flour and coconut. Try out chena pod, rasgullas, and other sweetmeats there. The seafood is also yummy and the place is definitely a foodie’s retreat.

Green coconut and sugarcane juice is very famous in Odisha. Also Odissi dance is the only oldest surviving dance forms in the country, in accord to the archaeological evidence. Enjoy the variety of dance shows and performances in the state including Chhau dance, Ghumura dance, Gotipua and Mahari dance.

Best Time to Visit:

The summers could be fiery and in winters, temperature goes down to the bottom of mercury level. According to travel experts and locals, the preferable period to pay a visit to Odisha is in between the months of November to February.

Looking for package tours to Odisha? Let Best Choice Holiday be your travel agent this time and we assure that you will not feel disappointed at any stage. Keep up the spirit of Vagabondo life and stay tuned for more posts!

The post Welcome to Odisha – A Perfect Blend of Intriguing Natural Beauty, Beaches, Tribal Culture and History! first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.