Orissa Tourism

The modern state of Orissa lies in the tropical zone as a result of which high temperatures are recorded during April-May. However, the sea bestows a moderating influence over the climate of the coastal belt whereas the hill tracts face an extreme climate.

There are many tourist interest places in the state and the government is taking steps to develop them with a newfound enthusiasm. Many newer areas are being developed wit a view to attract more tourists. Like Angul, for example.Clothed with lush green forests, Angul is rich in wildlife. The river Mahanadi passes through the district forming a 22-km long narrow gorge, one of the mightiest in India. Popularly known as 'Satkosia', it is an ideal habitat for a variety of crocodiles.

While Balangir is a well-laid out town from the times of the maharajas, which continues to be a scenic spot. Balasore is part of a fertile belt called the 'Granary of Orissa', because of its vast stretches of paddy fields that make a vivid splash of emerald landscape in this coastal township. Famous for its silk weaving, the town of Berhampur forms the gateway to the bewitching southern zone of Orissa.

Chilika, the largest brackish water-lake in Asia, holds a great attraction for tourists interested in fishing, bird watching and boating, Cuttack is one of the oldest cities of Orissa. Today it is the administrative headquarters of the district and serves as a convenient base for touring the various places of interest in the district. While the woods of Dhenkanal are said to be home to elephant, tiger, deer and other rare species of animals and birds, the fertile plains of the river Brahmani are one of the rice-growing areas of the state.

Waterfalls and forests teem with exotic wildlife in Jeypore. The diverse cultural influences of Jaipur enlivened and enriched the city even in the days of the visit of the Chinese traveler Hieun Tsang. Keonjhar is the gateway to one of the most scenic destinations in India and is blessed with rich mineral deposits as is Rourkela. Phulbani has a variety of attractions including a rich tribal culture and colorful flora and fauna. Set in the lap of nature, Rourkela came in to prominence with the establishment of the first of the three public sector steel plants set up in India in 1955.

Sambalpur is famous for its internationally renowned tie-and-dye textiles (ikat), rich folk heritage and fabulous forestland and leopards, elephants, mugger crocodiles and numerous reptiles abound in Simlipal.