MINOR PROJECT REPORTMINOR PROJECT REPORT

On

The Role of Religious Tourism inOrissa

SUBMITTED TO SUBMITTED BY Mr. Jasbir Singh Anshika kumar(asst. prof. ) B B A ( T T M ) 3 R D S E M

( D E P A R T M E N T O F B U S I N E S S 0 0 3 1 4 9 0 5 0 1 0A D M I N S T R A T I O N )

Maharaja Surajmal Institute Recognized by UGC U/S 2(F)

Affi l iated to GGS Indraprastha University, (C-4 Janak puri New Delhi -110058)

CERTIFICATE

This i s to cer t i fy tha t Anshika Kumar s tudent of BBA (TTM) 3 r d SEMESTER Rol l number 00314905010 has successful ly comple ted the projec t on The Role of Rel ig ious Tourism in Orissa and has submit ted the projec t repor t of the same on t ime.

Mr. Jasbir s ingh(Asst . prof . )(Department of BusinessAdminstrat ion)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I Anshika Kumar would l ike to thank Mr.Jasbir Singh for h is wholehear ted suppor t and guidance for making i t poss ib le to comple te th is projec t on t ime.I would a lso l ike to thank my f r iends and fami ly members for the i r k ind suppor t and guidance wi thout which th is projec t would not have comple ted . And las t ly , i t ’ s only when one makes a projec t tha t one rea l izes the t rue power of MS WORD, f rom grammar checks to replace-a l l s .

Anshika KumarBBA(TTM) 3 r d semester00314905010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page-no.Chapter-1 Introduction 1-6

Objective of the study Importance of the study Research Methodology Limitation of the study

Chapter -2 Theoretical Framework on 7-43 Religious Tourism in Orissa

Temples of Orissa Orissan Tribal People Top Seven Places to See in Bhubaneswar Three Main Tourist Places in Puri Orissa Dance& Music Beach a Status

Chapter-3 44-47 Analysis and Interpretation of the data

Chapter-4 48-50 Recommendation and Conclusions Bibliography

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

The tropical state of Orissa lies along the eastern seaboard of India, south of Bengal.Its main attractions are:

The temples of capital Bubaneshwar The long sandy beach at the Puri 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 the Eastern Ghats. Few visitors venture outside the Bhubaneswar/ Puri/ Konark triangle and although travel off the beaten track in Orissa is often rough, with few tourist facilities, it can be interesting and rewarding experience. The Oriya 25% of who are indigenous tribal peoples is particularly friendly and hospitable.

Orissa is also known as Kalinga, which transformed the ruler Ashoka. In 260 BC Ashoka, the great Indian emperor, near modern bhubaneshwar, defeated him. The bloody battle Ashoka with such a bitter a taste that he converted to Buddhism and spread that gentle religion far and wide. Buddhism soon declined in Orissa, however, Jainism held sway until Buddhism reasserted in the second century AD.

By the 7th century AD had in turn supplanted Buddhism and Orissa’s golden age began. Under the kesari and Ganga kings Orissan culture flourished and countless temples from that classical period still stand today. The Oriyas managed to defy the Muslim rulers in Delhi until the region finally fell to the moguls during the 16th century. Many of the Bhubaneshwar’s temples were destroyed at that time.

OBJECTIVES OF STUDY:-

To study the changes in level of employment in Orissa over the years. To analyze the contribution of religious tourism in Orissa in the national income. To explore and analyze the fields resulting in inflow and outflow of funds in

Orissa. To study the role of promotional campaigns in promoting religious tourism in

Orissa and analyze the reason of its growth.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research DesignResearch design is the basic frameworks which provide guidelines for the rest of research process. It is a map or blueprint according to which the research is to be conducted. The research design specifies the methods for data collection and data analysis. The researcher specifically pinpoint that to Carrey out research properly:(i) how would the data be collected (ii)which instruments for data collection would be used and(iii)what sampling plan would be used? The research has to carefully decide and make a choice from the group of different alternative available to him.

Data Collection methodsThere are two types of data: secondary and primary. The secondary data refer to those data which are gathered for some other purpose and are already available in the firm’s internal record and commercial, trade or government publications. On the other hand, primary data do not exist already in records and publications. The researcher has to gather primary data afresh for the specific study undertaken by him. The primary data are explicitly gathered for a specific research project at hand.

Process of methodology of a research

1. Developing a planResearch commences with derivation of the basic plan for the whole research which includes collection of data from different resources (mainly secondary sources i.e. internet and magazines), organizing the data and then giving the final touch to the study.

2. Collection of information

Collection of data is done mainly from the secondary sources of data like internet etc. It includes search of data from different sites so maximum reliable data can be acquired for the study.

3. Organizing the dataFinally main task is to organize the collected data in a systematic form so that data can be converted into good pack reliable information this can be understood by every individual.

IMPORTANCE OF THE STUDY

To promote national integration, international welfare and goodwill. To conduct, seminars, group discussions, course of studies, cultural meetings, to

promote Orissa tourism in India. To set up and maintain high ethical mores in the industry. To undertake such welfare activities as the members cannot take individually. To communicate with Chambers of Commerce, other Mercantile and public

Bodies in India, Government Departments or Committees, Department of Tourism and various foreign and local associations and corporations, companies and concerns and promote measures in the interests of the and nominate members to act on them.

To get affiliations with similar organizations in other countries.

Limitations of the study

Very t ime consuming .

Di f f i cu l t t o co l l e c t da t a . Secondary data which has been used in this project is not reliable. Short time period to complete the project. Organization of data is also very tough task.

The study may not be free from certain limitations due to fund and time constraints. For instance the study can be better applied to comparable situations and circumstances.

CHAPTER 2

THEORITICAL FRAMEWORK ON RELIGIOUS TOURISM IN ORISSA

HISTORY

Orissa is also known as Kalinga, which transformed the ruler Ashoka.

In 260 BC Ashoka, the great Indian emperor, near modern bhubaneshwar, defeated him. The bloody battle Ashoka with such a bitter a taste that he converted to Buddhism and spread that gentle religion far and wide. Buddhism soon declined in Orissa, however, Jainism held sway until Buddhism reasserted in the second century AD.

By the 7th century AD had in turn supplanted Buddhism and Orissa’s golden age began. Under the kesari and Ganga kings Orisons culture flourished and countless temples from that classical period still stand today. The Oriyas managed to defy the Muslim rulers in Delhi until the region finally fell to the moguls during the 16th century. Many of the Bhubaneshwar’s temples were destroyed at that time.

TEMPLES OF ORISSA

LOCATION: HIRAPUR & RANIPUR-JHARIAL

On the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, 15 km south-east of the city, is a small, circular temple, the Yogini Temple, dating to the early ninth century. It is hypaethral (open to the sky), and belongs to a genre of architecture completely apart from the major Orissan school. Although it seems that temples of this type existed throughout India at one   time, today only four remain. Two of them are in Orissa; the shrine at Hirapur, and one at Ranipur-Jharial, located 104 km from Bolangir.

The temple's circular wall, which is barely 2 meters high, contains 64 niches within its inner circumference. All except one of these contain an image of a Yogini Goddess. Some of the Goddesses are portrayed with sensual bodies and jeweled bodices, others with horrific shrunken features, still others with animal heads. Even today, standing in the deserted temple with bright sunshine pouring in, one senses a strange emanation from the temple, and this feeling is in keeping with its original purpose. Active between the ninth and thirteenth centuries, the cults responsible for these temples worshipped Yogini Goddesses in expectation of the direct acquisition of supernatural powers. The Yoginis were thought to be able to confer on their devotees the power to become microscopic or gigantic in size, to control the body and mind of oneself and of others, to fly, become invisible, and myriad other useful abilities. Worship seems to have centered on the repetition of the names of the Goddesses, and in later centuries, when active use of the shrines ceased, worshippers transferred their devotions to mystical paper diagrams.

1. Baldevajew

Location: Kendra Para

Known to the pilgrims as ' Tulasi Kshetra', Kendra Para houses the temple of Lord Baladeva. The rites and rituals of Lord Jagannath at Puri are generally followed here which make Kendra Para, located 95 km from Bhubaneswar, equally attractive.

2. Bhaskareswar

Location: Bhubaneswar

The typical feature of this temple built in 7th century AD is that it is a double storied temple with a tall linga (2.74 meters high from the floor level) which was said to be originally a free- standing Ashokan pilar. To enable the devotees to reach the top of the linga, and to perform ritualistic worship, the bada is built in two tiers, the upper tier, approachable by a flight of steps against the northern wall of the lower tier, is pierced with a door on the West side; the lower one looks like a platform and is provided with four doorways, one on each side, leading to the floor of the sanctum. Both the tiers are pancharatha on plan and have five-fold divisions.

3. Daiteswar

Location: Bhubaneswar

Daiteswar temple is located on the left side of the road leading to Kedar Gouri temple from Parsurameswar temple. It is a single shrine of Rekha deula built with sandstone. The temple faces east and the door-jamb has carved designs. The Outer walls of the temple are found plain and without molding or designs. From architectural features the temple is datable to 10th - 11th century AD. 

4. Jagannath

Location: Puri

The temple of Lord Jagannath ('Lord of the Universe') at Puri is one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in India, one of the four abodes (dramas) of the divine that lie on the four directions of the compass. The present temple structure was built in the twelfth

century by the Ganga king, Chodagangadeva, replacing an earlier structure which probably dated to the tenth century. Long before one reaches Puri, the 214 feet (65 meters) spire of the temple can be seen towering over the countryside. This visual dominance is symbolic of the influence which the temple commands over almost every aspect of life in Puri. The huge temple compound, each side of which  measures 650 feet (some 200 meters), is surmounted with a 20 foot (6 meters) wall. Within the compound is a city, or, more accurately, a universe unto itself.

5. Kedareswar

Location: Bhubaneswar

This is the main shrine of the Kedar-Gouri Complex, which can be approached on the east from the Lewis Road or on the West from theHaramandir Chhak. The architectural features as well, the sculptural style noticed on the sculptures of this temple would place it during the Somavamsi rule in Orissa datable to the 11th century AD. This temple is “Pancharatha" in design and contains a 'Rekha Deula' and a "Pidha Jagamohana". The temple faces south and the height of the sanctum would be about 13.7 meters.

6. Konark Sun Temple

Location: Konark

The magnificent Sun Temple at Konark is the culmination of Orissan temple architecture, and one of the most stunning monuments of religious architecture in the world. The poet Rabindranath Tagore said of Konark that 'here the language of stone surpasses the language of man', and it is true that the experience of Konark is impossible to translate into words.

7. Khichakeswara

Location: Khiching

The town of Khiching, which is now a rather remote destination in the northern area of Orissa, was obviously once a religious center of some importance. The temples which remain today, although interesting in their own right, are but the humble remnants of a more glorious past.

The large temple of KICHAKESWARI, originally probably dating back to the 7th or 8th century, was reconstructed from the ruins of an earlier temple in the early 20th century. The reconstruction, which used the traditional technique of moving large stone elements up a huge earthen ramp, proved that the ancient skill of temple building and architecture survived into the current century.  Unfortunately, scholars feel that the constructed temple does not reflect the true form of the original, and that the shape now is a bit disproportionate. Nevertheless, the sculptures on this and other Khiching temples are exceptionally beautiful. Large, tall images, they are slender and graceful, reflecting a remarkable sophistication and deftness of touch.

8. LeaningShivaTemple

Location: Huma

Huma, 32 km from Sambalpur and 350 km from Bhubaneswar is adorned with a leaning temple dedicated to Lord Bimaleswar. On the river Mahanadi, it is a scenic spot of great excellence. The Kudo fishes here are believed to belong to Lord Siva and they are very friendly to visitors.

9. Lingaraja

Location: Bhubaneswar

The great Ling raja (eleventh century) dominates the landscape of Bhubaneswar and is visible from as far as 15 kms away. This temple represents Orissan temple architecture at its most mature and fully developed stage and has been described as 'time quintessence of Orissan architecture'. The deul (tower) of the Ling raja reaches a height of just over 180 feet (55 meters). It is completely curvilinear, and the extraordinary soaring tower can be seen to incorporate miniature replicas of itself, in turrets inserted on the ribs of the spire. In addition to the deul and the jagmohana (porch), the Ling raja adds two new structures: the natamandira (hall of dance) and the bhoga-mandapa (hall of offering). The former was undoubtedly associated with the rising prominence of the devadasi system. Many of the sculptures on the temple itself represent groups of people engaged in various religious and musical activities, and these perhaps relate to the increasing range of activities carried out at the temple, for instance in the two new structures. By the time the Ling raja temple was constructed, the Jagannath cult had become predominant throughout Orissa. This is reflected in the fact that the temple deity here, the Svayambhu linga, is not, as in all other

cases, strictly a Shiva linga. It is considered to be a 'hari-hara' linga, that is, half Shiva, half Vishnu. This and the variety of deities represented elsewhere on the temple, once again point out the Basically synergetic nature of so much of Orissan religion. There are 150 subsidiary shrines within the immense Ling raja complex, many of them extremely interesting in their own right.

10. Madhava

Location: Niali

The famous Madhava temple (13th century) is located on the eastern bank of the Prachi River, about 6 kms. From Niali (Cuttack District). The area between Niali and Madhava appears to have been the principal centre of the Madhava (four-armed Vishnu) cult in Orissa, made famous in Sri Jayadeva's Gita Govinda. The temple is also sometimes referred to as "Durgamadhava" because of the presence of a small Durga image next to Madhava within the sanctum. This joint worship of Durga and Madhava is unique to Orissan Vaishnavism, and is yet another testament of the great Orissan process of synthesis. Madhava is a temple in active worship, and, in fact, draws a large number of pilgrims from all over Orissa. 

Vidala-Nrusingha & Harishankar

Location: Nrusinghnath, Gandamardhan Hills

Located in the sacred Gandhamardan Hills, which according to legends, Hanuman carried on his shoulders from the Himalayas as described in the ancient epic Ramayana, the temple at Nrusinghanath is an important pilgrimage site. It is also an exceedingly fascinating and beautifully located temple and is worth the journey to this rather remote spot. The present temple, located at the source of the Papaharini stream, is a 14th century structure built on a more ancient site. The four pillars within the Jagmohana suggest that the earlier temple was built in the 9th century. The beautiful doorframes have been dated to the 11th century. The site of the temple is unique. Stone steps wind up the hillside behind the temple, leading past a waterfall, and eventually curving under the falls to a spot where some beautiful and very well- preserved relief sculptures are found. The climb to the carvings and return journey will take about an hour. Since shoes are not permitted on these sanctified pilgrimage steps, those with tender feet should take along a pair of heavy socks for the climb.

1. Pataleswar

Location: Budhikomna

Located 115 km from Bhawanipatna, Budhikomna houses the famous temple of Pataleswar, made entirely of brick in Trirath style. The architectural design is quite interesting to art-lovers and general visitors alike.

2. SimhanathLocation: Bhubaneswar

Situated on an island in the Mahanadi River, about 10 kms. FromBadamba in Cuttack District, the Simhanath temple (c. 9th century) is interesting for its images of Shaiva, Shakta, and Vaishnava cults of Hinduism. The jagmohana (porch) appears to be influenced by the Vitals Deul temple in Bhubaneswar. The Simhanath temple combines older features with new and energetic experiments. This can be seen in such things as the elongation of the Paga images which crown the niches, and in the addition of a third terrace to the roof of the jagmohana.

3.Tales warLocation: Bhubaneswar

From architectural features as well as sculptural style noticed on this temple it can be dated to 8th-9th Century A.D. This temple was constructed during the Bhaumakara rule in Orissa. The temple facing east is a single shrine built in "Rekha" order of Kalingan style of temple architecture. The temple is “Pancharatha" in plan, over a raised base to a height of about 3.7 meters. State Archaeology has renovated this temple recently.

4. Vaial

Location: Bhubaneswar

The Parsurameswara and Mukteswara temples represent clear steps in the development of the major Kalinga style of Orissan temple architecture. The Vaital Temple (c. AD 800) represents an entirely different line. It belongs to the Khakhara order (a subdivision of the Kalinga School of architecture) which was used for shrines devoted to tantric cults. The deul (tower) of the temple is the most striking difference. It is rectangular in shape, positioned at a right angle to the

Jagmohana (porch). The roof vault is derived from earlier free-standing buildings made of wood and thatch. The horseshoe-shape of the chaitya arch became an enduring motif, turning up not only in actual structures, such as the Vaital Temple, but frequently in sculptural decoration. On the Vaital Temple, the outer surface of the vault is absolutely plain, in contrast with the heavy sculptural embellishment of every other existing Orissan temple tower. The shape of the more common Temple form has not been ignored, however; it has been carefully inserted, in miniature form, on the four corners of the Vaital Temple's jagmohana (porch). A brief look at the Vaital Temple will show an extremely accomplished style of sculptural decoration. A slightly closer look will reveal some of the darker facets of the sculpture's content, and the temple's nature. Tantric worship, which combined elements from certain sects of both Buddhism and Hinduism, centered on the worship of Shakti, the female life force. It developed elaborate rituals involving magic spells, secret rituals and sacrificial offerings. The interior of the Vaital Temple's inner sanctum is almost completely dark, in keeping with the esoteric rites believed to have been performed there. The temple deity of Chamunda (tantric form of the Hindu goddess Durga) is dimly visible behind her grille, portrayed with a garland of skulls around her neck, seated on a corpse, flanked by an owl and a jackal. Her emaciated body, sunken eyes, and shrunken belly are quite remarkable, and even the usually staid and unflappable Archaeological Survey of India, in their guide to Bhubaneswar, cannot help but remarking that she displays the 'most terrible aspect conceivable'. The 15 niches which adorn the interior wall around her are also filled with a series of singularly strange images. In front of the entrance to the sanctum is a 'four faced' linga adorned with unusual carvings. Next to it is a post, to which sacrificial offerings were tied. The entire atmosphere is, in the words of one specialist, disquieting. The Archaeological Survey sums it up more directly: 'weird'. On the outer, eastern face of the tower (back, thankfully, in the sunlight), there is an extremely fine image of the sun god, Surya, with a sensitive and beautiful face. He is flanked by Usha and Pratyusha, twin sisters of the dawn, while his chariot is driven by Aruna. This is a motif that will be remembered, and later developed fully in the Sun Temple at Konark. The first erotic sculptures known in Orissan art are found here, in a sunken transitional panel on the super-structure. It has been suggested that relevance to the tantric rituals of this particular temple.

ORISSAN TRIBAL PEOPLE

Orissa has no less than 62 distinct groups of aboriginal people who inhabited this region prior to the Aryan invasion of India. Officially known as tribal they constitute more than the quarter of the state’s population and live mainly in the hilly areas outside the small coastal plain.

KONDHAS the most numerous of the tribals are the 950,000 kondhs. They still practice colorful ceremonies, although the animal sacrifices have been substituted for the human ones which the British took as much trouble to stop –particularly around russelkonds JUANG the jaung number only around 30,000 and live in the thatched huts decorated with white wall painting.

SANTAL there are about 5 lakes al, living in the northern mayurbhanj and balas ore districts, particularly around baripada and khiching. There marriage system is interesting in that it involves several different methods for a woman to get her man, including nir balak bapla or marriage by intrusion. Unable to hook by any other method she can move in and if he and his parents cannot get her out after a week or so, he must marry her.

SAORAS there are over 300000 soars and they are divided into nine subdivisions. Now partially assimilated into Indian community they are spread over wide area over in the central and southern districts. They speak an autro-asiatic language of the munda family.

BONDA the bonda known as the naked people are renowned for their wild ways.

Other major tribes are Barajas the colorful godabas and the kayaks.

Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Orissa, is also popularly known as the "Temple City of India". Being the seat of Tribhubaneswar or 'Lord Lingaraj', Bhubaneswar is and the new Bhubaneswar with its modern buildings and extensive infrastructure perfectly complements its historic surroundings. With facilities to cater to every type of visitor, Bhubaneswar makes an ideal tourist destination.

Important Hindu pilgrimage center. Hundreds of temples dot the landscape of the Old Town, which once boasted of more than 2000 temples. Bhubaneswar is the place where temple building activities of Orissan style flowered from its very inception to its fullest culmination extending over a period of over one thousand years.

The new Bhubaneswar with its modern buildings and extensive infrastructure perfectly complements its historic surroundings. With facilities to cater to every type of visitor, Bhubaneswar makes an ideal tourist destination.

Best time to visit Bhubaneshwar

Bhubaneswar can be visited at anytime of the year. The period between mid-September and mid-March is considered as the tourist season when the sun is bright and warm, the sky is blue, the air is cool and the weather is generally pleasant. To the visitor, Bhubaneswar is a city of contrasts, co-existence and continuity. There is a happy encounter of past and present in this temple town, which has a history of about 2500 years. All religions and sects flourished here.

TOP SEVEN PLACES TO SEE IN BHUBANESHWAR

LINGARAJ TEMPLE: Ling raja

1. Location: Bhubaneswar

The great Ling raja (eleventh century) dominates the l andscape of Bhubaneswar and is visible from as far as 15 kms away. This temple represents Orissan temple architecture at its most mature and fully developed stage and has been described as 'time quintessence of Orissan architecture' . The deul (tower) of the Lingaraja reaches a height of just over 180 feet (55 meters). It is completely curvilinear, and the extraordinary soaring tower can be seen to incorporate miniature replicas of it, in turrets inserted on the ribs of the spire. In addition to the deul and the jagmohana (porch), the Ling raja adds two new structures:

the natamandira (hall of dance) and the bhoga-mandapa (hall of offering). The former was undoubtedly associated with the rising prominence of the devadasi system. Many of the sculptures on the temple itself represent groups of people engaged in various religious and musical activities, and these perhaps relate to the increasing range of activities carried out at the temple, for instance in the two new structures.By the time the Lingaraja temple was constructed, the Jagannath cult had become predominant throughout Orissa. This is reflected in the fact that the temple deity here, the Svayambhu linga, is not, as in all other cases, strictly a Shiva linga. It is considered to be a 'hari-hara' linga, that is, half Shiva, half Vishnu. This and the variety of deities represented elsewhere on the temple, once again point out the basically syncretism nature of so much of Orissan religion.

2. BINDU SAGAR TANK

The ocean drop tank just north of the great temple is said to contain water from every holy stream, pool and the tank in India. When it comes to washing away sins this tank washes it cleanest. There are a number of temples and shrines scattered around the tank, several with towers in imitation of ones at Lingaraj temple. In the center of the tank there is a water pavilion where, once a year, Lingaraj deity is brought to be ritually bathed.

3. PARSURAMESHWAR TEMPLE

LOCATION: Close to the main Bhubaneswar to puri road, on the same side as the Lingaraj Temple, the grove of the perfect beings is a cluster of about 20 smaller temples, including some of the most important in Bhubaneswar. ABOUT TEMPLE: Hailed as the earliest surviving temple, this highly ornate monument is 12.80 meters high and belongs to the middle of the 7th century AD. It is furnished with four latticed windows and grill decoration of ‘bands of animated musicians and dancers, remarkable for ingenuity of conception, beauty of design and rhythmic vigour writes Debala Mira. "Every Stone here is of informative character”, says Percy Brown. 

4. MUKTESWAR, SIDDHESWAR AND KEDARGAURI

Lovely Mukteswara is "the gem of Orissan architecture in sand stone" - says M.M. Gangly. Belonging to the 10th century AD; the temple rises to a height of 10. 51 meters with every inch of the exterior embellished with superb artistry. Mukteswar with its special features marks a crucial turning point in the tempo of the Orissan temple architecture providing interesting study for the scholars and connoisseurs of art. The ceiling of the Hall of Audience is adorned with an exquisitely carved lithic canopy of an

eight-petal led lotus having on each petal an icon of a deity. The magnificent arched gateway, the Torana, in the front of the Mukteswara is a unique piece of stonework, which has no parallel in the field.

LOCATION: Not far from the Parsurameswar is the small 10th century Mukteswar temple, one of the ornate temples in Bhubaneswar.

The later Siddheswar temple is in the same compound. Although plainer than the Mukteswar, it has a fine standing Ganesh figure.Also by the road, across the path from the Mukteswar, the kedargauri is one of the older temples at bhubaneshwar.

5. RAJ RANI

Location: Bhubaneswar

Rajarani (11th Century AD), the temple composed of temples, is a variety by itself. The structure rising to a height of 17.98 meters in fine grained yellowish sand stone presents a dramatic sequence in temple building activities. Closely clustered with its own miniature replicas or Anga Sikhara projections, Rajarani has family resemblance with Kandariya Mahadeva temple of Khajuraho. The slender waisted life-size figures languorously posed, reflect the artists' realistic appreciation of the wealth of feminine charm a sumptuous feast for the visitor's eye. As felt by Charles Fabri the Rajarani holds many surprises.

Bhrameshwar

A product of the 11th century AD, Brahmeswar, is a milestone in the temple building activity of Orissa. The slab-sealing interior is carved as an inverted lotus with serpentine figures at corners. The procession of armed infantry, cavalry and elephants, animals and birds adorn the friezes of the structure. 

6. STATE MUSEUM

The museum is opposite the hotel Kalinga Ashok and has an interesting collection relating to orison history, culture and architecture and to the various orisons tribes. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm daily, except Mondays. Entry is Rs 2.

7. TRIBAL RESEARCH CENTER

Although this is primarily an anthropological research center, visitors are welcome there’s an interesting outdoor display of reconstructed houses of orisons tribal people, including the santal, juang, Gadaba, Saora and Kondh admission is free and is daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Sunday. Buses from the new bus station and the center of town pass right by here.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS

The partly ruins of the Sisupal Garh are thought to be remains of ashokan cities. In the north of the city, the botanical gardens and regional plants reserve have large collection of plants including many cacti. A recent attraction is the city’s planetarium, wherethere are shows at 3 and 4 pm daily except Mondays; ticket cost Rs 5.

Places to stay

Hotel Oberoi in Bhubaneswar

Category: 5 Star HotelsFacilities:

Accommodation: Hotel Oberoi in Bhubaneswar offers 70 world-class centrally air-conditioned rooms with attached bathrooms, color TV, music system, cable and satellite connection, telephone, mini bars, 24-hour room service etc. Dining: There are two restaurants and a bar that are apt for eating out when you are not calling on the room service. Business Facilities: Two state of the art meeting rooms within the Hotel Oberoi complex in Bhubaneswar cater to the needs of savvy professionals and are perfect for hosting seminars, meetings, conferences and even cocktail parties. Recreational Facilities: A swimming pool, gift shop, indoor and outdoor games facilities take care of the leisure aspects of your tour of Bhubaneswar.

Hotel Swosti in Bhubaneswar

Category: 4 Star HotelsFacilities:Fast facts

PLACES TO EAT

The modern south Indian hotel

The fahien RestaurantKenilworth Hotel Hotel AaharTHINGS TO BUY: Orissan handicraft including appliqué work can be bought at the market of raj path in the Orissan state handloom co-operative or Utkalika

Bhubaneswar Airport

Approach: Bhubaneswar is well connected by air, rail and road to the rest of India. The modern Biju Patnaik airport is being extended to receive wide-bodied aircraft, and one may well see international charters landing here soon. Best time to visit: Bhubaneswar can be visited round the year, but the ideal time, especially for visitors from colder climes, would be from October to March.

Excursions in Bhubaneshwar

1. Dhauli (8 km) Surrounded by paddy fields, the Dhauli hill brings back memories of the historic 'Kalinga war' which was fought around here. It is here that Ashoka, the terrible, was transformed into Ashoka, the compassionate and championed the cause of Buddhism. On the foot of the hill one can see the Rock Edicts of Ashoka and the forepart of a skillfully sculpted elephant hewn out of a huge rock. Dhauli has gained prominence due to the establishment of a Buddhist Peace Pagoda, popularly known as Shanti Stupa, built in the early seventies by the Japan Buddha Sangha and Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha. An old temple of Lord Dhavaleswar, reconstructed in 1972, also stands on the hilltop.

2. Sisupalgarh Just two km from the famed Lingaraj Temple of Bhubaneswar lay the ruins of Sisupalgarh. Dating back to the third or fourth century BC, these ruins show that even at that early date there was a well-fortified city here, and establish the fact that the Orissan civilization has very ancient roots.

4. Hirapur (15 km) Hirapur has the 11th century hypothermal temple of sixty-four Yogies. It is second of its kind in Orissa and one of four such unique temples in India.

5. Atri (42 km) Situated amidst greenery and famous for the hot sulphur water spring, Atri, 42 km. from Bhubaneswar and 14 km. from Khurda, is also a holy place with the shrine of Hatakeswar. A bath in the spring water is reputed to cure skin diseases apart from being a pleasant experience.

GETTING AROUNDCycle rickshaw and taxi: one can travel in the city through cycle rickshaw and taxi.Best time to visit: Bhubaneswar can be visited round the year, but the ideal time, especially for visitors from colder climes, would be from October to March.

BHUBANESHWAR’S MAIN TOURIST SITES ARE

UDAYAGIRI AND KHANDAGIRI CAVES DHAULI NANDANKANAN ZOO UDAYAGIRI OR “SUNRISE HILL” IS FAMOUS FOR

GETTING THERE AND AWAY

Only few buses go specifically to the caves. One can even get there by rickshaw.

1.DHAULI: around 260 BC king is famous edicts carved on the rocks halfway up the hill here at Dhauli, 8 km south of Bhubaneshwar, just off the puri road.At the hill there is dazzling white peace pagota built by the Japanese in the 1970’s, with older Buddha figures set into the modern structure.Getting here: one can get here by puri or konark bus and there it’s a 3 km walk to dhauli.

2. NANDANKANAN ZOO: This zoo is 25 km north to Bhubaneshwar. This zoo is famous for its white tigers. There are also lion and tiger safaris in armored buses, elefantrides and boating on the lake

PURI

Puri is one of the four drams. Religious life in the city revolves around the great Jagannath temple and its famous rath yatra Puri’s greatest attraction is its sandy beach that draws large number of western travelers and Indians, especially in the October to January high season.

THERE ARE THREE MAIN TOURIST PLACES IN PURI

A heaven on earth is the common description of Puri. Both the devout and the pleasure-seeker bestow such praise on the place. The world's biggest Vishnu temple dividing the skyline through a host of smaller temples overlooking Puri's wide, sprawling, clean, sunny, buoyant, and vibrant beach, which too is one of worlds finest of its kind are its chief attractions.

Places of interest in Puri: -

Jagannath

Location: PuriThe temple of Lord Jagannath ('Lord of the Universe') at Puri is one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in India, one of the four abodes (dharma) of the divine that lie on the four directions of the compass. Long before one reaches Puri, the 214 feet (65 meters) spire of the temple can be seen towering over the countryside. This visual dominance is symbolic of the influence which the temple commands over almost every aspect of life in Puri. The huge temple compound, each side of which measures 650 feet (some 200 meters), is surmounted with a 20 foot (6 meters) wall. Within the compound is a city, or, more accurately, a universe unto itself. With 6000 direct temple servitors, a temple kitchen, which feeds 10,000 people daily (and some 25,000 on festival days), and a central deity who has become the focus of religious life throughout Orissa, the Jagannath temple is truly an institution unique in the world.Because of the temple's intense religious importance and hallowed traditions, entrance is forbidden to non-Hindus. To have a good view of the temple and its compound, visitors are welcome to ascend to the roof of the Raghunandan Library which is across the street.In the bazaar area surrounding the temple, dozens of shops display and sell images of the central temple deity, Lord Jagannath, presented in a trinity with his 'brother' Balbhadra and his 'sister' Subhadra. The pervasive quality of the Jagannath cult will be seen when traveling in other parts of Orissa, where the distinctive image of Jagannath appears with

great frequency. Even to the non-religious eye, the image is fascinating, perhaps because of the unlikely combination of the endearing, charming form with an undeniable sense of power.Some of the other important temples are Gundicha, Lokanath, Sunaragauranga, Daria Mahabir and Tota Gopinatt. There are also a number of holy tanks like Narendra, Markandeya, Sweta Ganga and Indradyumna. There are many Monasteries locally known as Mathas also of tourist interest. Approach: - By air to Bhubaneswar (Puri is 62 km from Bhubaneswar), road and rail.

Excursions in Puri:-

1.Balighai (8 km) The Casuarinas fringed Balighai beach is a famous picnic spot. The Sun and fun at the mouth of the river Mugnai is unforgettable.

2. Brahmagiri (25 km) Brahmagiri is known for the living shrine of Alarnath. Streams of pilgrims visit Amaranth during Anabasara of Lord Jagannath. Nearby is the shrine of Baliharachandi on the solitary sand dunes.

3.Satyabadi (20 km) Satyabadi or Sakshigopal is known for the shrine of Lord Sakshigopal. It is believed that the visit to Puri is incomplete without a visit to Sakshigopal.

4. Baliharachandi (27 km) 27 km to the southwest of Puri is the temple of Baliharachandi. Situated on a sandy hill near the sea and adjacent to the mouth of the river Bhargavi, Goddess Durga is worshipped here as Baliharachandi. The scenic beauty of this place is ideal for group picnic.

5. Raghurajpur (16 km) One of the most famous artists village in Orissa, the village of Raghurajpur boasts not only of the exquisite pattachitra's and talapattachitra's, but also of being the native place of Guru kelucharan Mohapatra, the famed Odissi dancer. Even today, under the tutelage of renowned Guru's, young boys can be seen practicing the Gotipua dance here. A visit to Orissa would definitely be incomplete without a visit to this little village.

Fast facts

Places to stay THE PANTHANIVAS TOURIST BUNGLOW THE FRIENDY HOTEL GOLDEN PALACE

HOTEL TOSHALI SANDS

PLACES TO EAT THE PEACE RESTRAUNT RAJU’S RESTRAUNT SOUTH EAST RAILWAY HOTEL

THINGS TO BUY FABRIC, BEADS AND BAMBOO WORK SNAKE AND ANIMAL SKIN

GETTING TWO AND AWAY BUS:

Puri’s New Bus Station Is beside the Gundicha Mandir, though some of the Private Buses Depart from around the nearby Junction of Grand Rd and Hospital Rd.

TRAIN:There Are Two Overnight Trains Each Way Between Puri And Kolkota And A Daily Morning Departure To Delhi. There Are Several Trains between Puri and Bhubaneshwar

GETTING AROUNDOne Can Travel By Cycle Rickshaw and Buses between the Temples and the Station

Konark

Location: Konark (lat. 19.53'N; long. 86.06'E) is a small town in Puri district. The Bay of Bengal is barely 4 kilometer away. It is 70 km from Bhubaneswar. About Konark:

The name Konark is a variant of Konark, which means the Arka (Sun) of Kona (corner), the corner being that of Trikona on the bank of the Kushabhadra.

The magnificent Sun Temple at Konark is the culmination of Orissan temple architecture,

and one of the most stunning monuments of religious architecture in the world. The poet Rabindranath Tagore said of Konark that 'here the language of stone surpasses the language of man', and it is true that the experience of Konark is impossible to translate into words.

Handicrafts in Orissa

Orissa' is famous for her handicrafts which exhibit the skill and creativity of her artisans. Her brass work, silver work, terracotta art objects, and appliqué work are unique examples Horn Work: - Horn articles of Orissa are mystical and are blended with a superb fashion design. Their lively appearance, dynamism and animation vie with the real objects of nature - that spells the names of Parlakhemundi and Cuttack. There are artisans in Orissa who are dexterous in providing articles of daily use like combs, flower vases and pen-stands out of the horn of cattle.

1. Peppier Mache: - crafts persons from all over Orissa have creatively practiced this skill. Paper, waste cloth and different kinds of natural fibers are soaked and beaten into pulp, then mixed with a variety of seeds and gums for strength and as protection from termites.

2.Appliqué Work :- 'Appliqué', which is a French term, is a technique by which the decorative effect is obtained by superposing patches of colored fabrics on a basic fabric, the edges of the patches being sewn in some form of stitchery. Though the form is not unknown in other parts of India, it is Orissa and especially in Pupil that the craft has a living and active tradition continuing over centuries. Stone carving: stone carving in orison reflects a glorious culture of the past. Stones are transformed in to living expression of god’s creation. The crafts of puri Bhubaneshwar and lalitgiri still continuous the age of old trading even today with all the imagination and create and create paragon of art and objects.

3. PATTACHITRA: pattachitra is a living art practiced by skilled, traditional “CHITRAKAR”. It is based on mythological theme. The patt prepared on canvas by coating of chalk and tamarind seeds mixture and after that chitrakars paint on this. A leathery finish with earth and stone colours giving meaningful expression. The patt chitrakars are from Ragurajpur.

4. Wood carving: Orissa woodcarving is the blending of folk and classical forms. The wood carvers make a variety of decorative items the real and the mythical panel of alphabets and images of god, goddess and human being are also made of the carving at the Bubaneswar and Puri.

5. DHOKRA: the metal casting Dhokra is example of orissa metal work. The Dhokra are cast in brass by lost wax process and display an intriguing wirework. Dhokra with their artique is from Bhuban and Dhenkanal districtTusser painting: the art is made of hand made silk cloth with the vegetable colours. The art shows the mythological story of Indian culture. The art is from puri.

ORISSA FAIRS & FESTIVALS

Pilgrims throughout the year throng Orissa being a land of ancient and sacred temples, and a state where three religions flourished. There are a large number of fairs and festivals celebrated in the state. There are festivals relating to each religion, tribal festivals, and festivals relating to Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of the Puri Temple, and many seasonal exhibitions and fairs as well as special festivals such as the Konark Dance Festival, the Rajarani Music Festival, and the Puri Beach Festival etc.

1. Durga Puja: - Durga Puja (September-October) symbolizes the commemoration of good over evil. Life comes to a standstill in the city of Cuttack as crowds pour over the Puja Mandaps to enjoy the festivities. On the day succeeding 'Vijay a Dasami', the last day of Dussera, the images are taken in a spectacular procession for immersion in the river Kath Jodi.

2. Rath Yatra: - The most famous Orissan festival is of course the Ratha Yatra or Car Festival (June-July) which attracts pilgrims and visitors from all over the world. On the full moon day of the month of Jyestha known as snana Purnima, the idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra slid Subhadra are brought out and bathed on a pendal known as the snarlamandap according to religious rites.

3. Chandan Yatra: - Chandan Yatra marks the conclusion of the cycle of religious festivals observed in the famous shrine of

Lord Jagannath at Puri followed by similar other shrines of Orissa. The festival, starting from Akshyaya Trutiya, lasts for twenty-one days and is held in the month of Baisakh at the height of the summer heat when Chandan (sandle-paste) and water are essential to keep people cool.Dola Purnima (Holi):- Dolapwnima or Holi is the most famous spring festival of India. Usually celebrated in March. It has special properties in its celebration in Orissa where it is a five day affair, especially in the rural areas. The images of Krishna are worshipped form Dashami (10th day of the bright fortnight) to the full moon day.

4. Puri Beach Festival: - The Puri Beach Festival is an out and out fun lover’s fest. Conducted by the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Orissa (HRAO), the festival is a celebration of Orissa, in all its Beauty, charm and fun-loving spirit. With events ranging from Fashion shows to rock shows, the Puri Beach festival.

5. Konark Dance Festival: - Described as a poem in stone, the Sun temple at Konark is the crowning glory of the temple architecture of Orissa. As a fitting tribute to the majestic monument, eminent classical dancers of India get together during the Konark Festival every year.

Orissa Dance & MusicOdissi Music is a classical form consisting of all the necessary ingredients common to Hindustani and Karnatic Music, such as rags and tala Jayadeva' was the first Oriya poet who composed lyrics meant to be sung and thus the words of those Lyrics were musical to start with. In addition he indicated the classical ragas prevailing at the time in which these were to be sung.

Prior to this there was the tradition of chhandas, which were simple in musical outline. From the 16th century onwards Treatises on music were written or compiled in Orissa. They were Sangitamava Chandrika, Gita Prakasha, Sangita Kalalata and Natya Manorama. Two treatises namely, Sangita Sarani and Sangita Narayana were also written in the early 19th century.

Odissi sangita is a synthesis of four classes of music, i.e. dhruvapada, chitrapada, chitrakala and paschal, described in the above-mentioned texts. The dhruvapada is the first line or lines to be sung repeatedly. The use of art in music is called chitikala. Kavisurya Baladeva Rath, the renowned Oriya poet wrote lyrics which are the best examples of chitrakala.

Chitrapada means the arrangement of words in an alliterative style. All these were combined to form the style peculiar to Odissi music. Chhanda (metrical section) contains the essence of Odissi music. The chhandas were composed combining Brava (theme), kala (time), and swara (tune) the chaurisha represents the originality of Odissi style. All the thirty-four letters of the Oriya alphabet from 'Ka' to 'Kasha' are used chronologically at the beginning of each line. A special feature of Odissi music is the padi which consists of words To be sung in druta tala (fast beat). Odissi music cans besung to different talas: navatala nine beats), dashatala (ten beats) or egger tala (eleven beats).

Odissi ragas are different from the ragas of Hindustani and Karnataki music. The chief Odissi ragas are Kalyana, Nata, Shree Gowda, Baradi, Panchama, Dhanashri, Karnata, Bhairavee and Shokabaradi.

Thus we see that classical Odissi music lacks nothing in grammar, rhetoric or composition to compare with Hindustani or Karnataki styles. It owes much to Jayadev, the saint-poet, the great composer and illustrious master of classical music. The greatest exponents of Odissi music in modern times are the late Singhari Shyamasundar Kar, Markeandeya Mahapatra, Kashinath Pujapanda, Balakirshan Das, Bhubaneswari Misra and Shymamani Davis. Who have achieved eminence in classical music include among others Sunanda Patnaik.

1. Odissi Dance: - Odissi dance is the typical classical dance form of Orissa and has its origin in the temples. The rhythm, the bhangis and madras used in Odissi dance have a distinctive quality of their own. Odissi dance deals largely with the love theme of Radha and Krishna. It is a lyrical form of dance with its subtlety as its keynote.

2. Mahari Dance: - Mahari Tradition of the Sri Mandira is the beautiful Parijata flower of art and history of Utkal. It also makes living by its fragrance and the touch of national. It has been doing so far from the time immoral. It has made the art of Utkala glorious Mahari tradition is the same and one union of Lord Jagannath and great Nari Mahari.

3. Folk Dances: - The Jatra. Pala and Daskarhia represent important aspects of Orissan folk culture form an integral part of the lives of the rural folk. Today television s these programmers, thus making the city people conversant with these folk art forms. Jatra corresponds to folk theatre. It is the enactment of a play with a cast and comprises music, dance, acting, singing and dramatic conflict.

4. Cuttack The former capital and one of the oldest cities of Orissa is the administrative headquarters of the district. The town is situated at the apex of the delta formed by the rivers Mahanadi in the North and Kath Jodi in the South. It serves as a convenient base for touring the various places of interest in the district.Places of tourist interest in Cuttack: Stone Revetment of Cuttack: The river banks of Cuttack are protected by stone revetment, a great engineering marvel of the 11th century A.D. and a remarkable example of ancient technological skill of Orissa

 5. Barabati Fort: The ruins of a medieval fort with its moat and gate and the earthen mound of the nine-strayed palace on the bank of the river Mahanadi are noteworthy. Adjacent to the fort are two modern stadiums. Temple of Cuttack Chandi: Being the shrine of the presiding deity of the city, the temple of Cuttack Chandi is normally visited by every Hindu visitor. 

6. Quadam-i-Rasool: A sacred shrine both for the Hindus and Muslims, Quadam-i-Rasool, having a compound wall and towers at each corner has inside three mosques with beautiful domes and a Nawabat Khana (music gallery). It is an object of veneration for Hindus and Muslims alike.Approach: By air to Bhubaneswar (Cuttack is 29 km from Bhubaneswar), road and rail.Handicrafts of the Region: For shopping and souvenirs, Cuttack is one of the best places in Orissa. The famous silver filigree works with intricate interwoven wires, horn and brass products, tie and dye textiles of Maniabandha and Sambalpur, applique works of Pupil in exquisite cloth designs and the stone works of Puri are preferred most by the tourists.

Odissi sangita

Odissi sangita is a synthesis of four classes of music, i.e. dhruvapada, chitrapada, chitrakala and paschal, described in the above-mentioned texts. The dhruvapada is the first line or lines to be sung repeatedly. The use of art in music is called chitikala. Kavisurya Baladeva Rath, the renowned Oriya poet wrote lyrics which are the best examples of chitrakala.Chitrapada means the arrangement of words in an alliterative style. All these were combined to form the style peculiar to Odissi music. Chhanda (metrical section) contains the essence of Odissi music. The chhandas were composed combining Brava (theme), kala (time), and swara (tune) the chaurisha represents the originality of Odissi style. All the thirty-four letters of the Oriya alphabet from 'Ka' to 'Kasha' are used chronologically

at the beginning of each line. A special feature of Odissi music is the padi which consists of words To be sung in druta tala (fast beat). Odissi music cans besung to different talas: navatala nine beats), dashatala (ten beats) or egger tala (eleven beats).Odissi ragas are different from the ragas of Hindustani and Karnataki music. The chief Odissi ragas are Kalyana, Nata, Shree Gowda, Baradi, Panchama, Dhanashri, Karnata, Bhairavee and Shokabaradi Thus we see that classical Odissi music lacks nothing in grammar, rhetoric or composition to compare with Hindustani or Karnataki styles. It owes much to Jayadev, the saint-poet, the great composer and illustrious master of classical music. The greatest exponents of Odissi music in modern times are the late Singhari.

Water falls

1. Badaghagra: - The badaghagra (about 60 meters) situated around 10 km from Keonjhar is amongst the most popular picnic sites in the region. One look at the beauty and serenity of the place is enough to understand why visitors make a beeline for it!

2. Barehipanithese picturesque falls (Barehipani - 399 meters and Joranda - 150 miters) situated in the core area of Simlipal National Park is perfectly complementary to their surroundings and is a beautiful bonus to the visitors of the sanctuary.

3.HarishankarOn the southern slope of the Gandhamardan hills, around 81 km from Balangir, stands Harishankar, a place of pilgrimage, famous for its uncommon scenic charms and the presence of Hari and Shankar, the dual deities of the Vaishnav and Shaivite sects of Hinduism. A perennial stream gushes forth onto its granite bed to form cascades at different stages, the last fall providing a natural water slide to bathers! As a cool resort in the lap of nature, Harishankar is a panacea for the heat in the summer.

4. Hatipathar3 km from Rayagada, the river Nagasaki flows through a deep cut valley, forming two lovely waterfalls. An ideal picnic spot known for its scenic beauty, the place gets its name from the huge elephant shaped boulders (in Oriya, Hati means elephant and Pathar means boulder) that litter the landscape.

5. Jorandathese picturesque falls (Barehipani - 399 meters and Joranda - 150 meters) situated in the core area of Simlipal National Park is perfectly complementary to their surroundings and is a beautiful bonus to the visitors of the sanctuary.

6. Khndadharone of the prettiest districts on the tourist circuit is the Sundargarh region. Located amidst its lush forests is Orissa's most famous waterfall, the Khandadhar fall (about 244 metres). The beauty of this place makes it a site not to be missed.

7.KhandualaThe jungles of Karla pat Wildlife Sanctuary, situated around 32 km from Bhawanipatna, provide the setting for another of Orissa's charming waterfall called Khanduala, so named because of the shrine of the Goddess Khanduala situated on the top of the hill.

8. MiriglotahA beautiful waterfall and picnic spot situated 111 km from Rourkela is another of Orissa's lovely offerings to visitors.

9. NrusimhanathOn the northern slopes of the Gandhamardan hills is the temple of Nrusimhanath located 165 km from Sambalpur. A murmuring rivulet engirdles the shrine forming various waterfalls at different stages. Bhimadhar, Gadadhar, Guptadhar, Pitrudhar, Kapiladhar and Chaladhar are picturesque waterfalls at Nrusimhanath.

10. Phurli JharanA perennial waterfall of about 16 metres high, Phurli Jharan located around 15 km from Bhawanipatna, has a special charm of its own. The multi-colored rainbows created by the sun-rays falling on the scattered water particles of the fall, creates a thrilling and magical ambience. The evergreen forests around provide ample opportunity for picnickers.

11. Prahanpatthe Pradhanpat hill, with its picturesque waterfall, offers a rare scenic beauty. These falls are close to Deogarh, and are around 100 km from Sambalpur.

12. PutudiLocated 15 km from Phulbani, the natural beauty of the Putudi fall on the river Bada Saluki, with dense forests and hills on either side have entranced visitors over the ages.

13. Sanaghagrathe Sanaghagra falls (about 30 metres) situated around 5 km from Keonjhar is one of the most popular picnic sites in the region. One look at the beauty and serenity of the place is enough to understand why visitors make a beeline for this place.

Beach a status of its own.

1. Aryapalli30 km from Berhampur and 6 km from Chhatrapur, the beach at Aryapalli is quiet and charming where the waves speak volumes. Its bracing and invigorating climate adds freshness to the soul. A nature-loving tourist can enjoy the Sun, Surf and Sand amongst the green casuarina plantations, far from the madding crowds.

2. AstrangaThis little beach 91 km from Puri presents a panoramic view, especially during sunset on a multi-colored horizon as though seeking to justify its name as "Colorful Sunset".

3. BalaramgadiThe confluence of the river Budhabalanga with the sea at Balaramgadi, located 2 km from Chandipur, presents visitors a scenic view with fishing and boating.Balighaithe casuarina fringed Balighai beach, located 8 km from Puri, is a famous picnic spot. The juxtaposition of gentle casuarina-lined river with crashing, desolate ocean coast is a strange and extremely beautiful one. One may also catch a glimpse of the shy Baliharina a kind of deer who inhabit the area. The Sea Turtle Research Centre is another attraction of this beach.BaliharachandiThough Baliharachandi, located 27 km from Puri, is known for the shrine of Goddess Harachandi, the lonely beach with its meandering sand dunes can be quite enchanting.

4. BeleswarSite of a Shaivite shrine, Beleswar, located 15 km from Puri, has an interesting beach where several fun filled hours can be spent.

5. ChadipurOrissa has a long coastline of over 480 km.on the Bay of Bengal interspersed by a couple

of lovely beaches. Added to their seductive beauty is a vast hinter land of antiquities and holy shrines. Backed up by musical sway of casuarina trees and creep red sand dunes, Chandipur is one such beach, but with a unique distinction on its own. Unlike other beaches, the sea water here recedes away from the shore line about five km twice a day, an unusual phenomenon, rarely found anywhere. ? You can see the sea literally vanishing before your eyes and also watch it coming back rhythmically at regular intervals, as if playing hide and seek

6. ChandrabhagaClose to the famous Sun Temple of Konark is a lovely and quiet beach - Chandrabhaga. The beach, known for its beauty and solitude, has long served as a counterfoil to the exquisite and intricate sculptures on the Sun Temple, where visitors would let the simple lines of the sea wash away all their worries and refresh them.

7. ParadeepA major port of Orissa, Paradeep also boasts of a fine beach where visitors can easily spend a couple of hours soaking in the sun or frolicking in the lovely blue waters.

8. Pati-SonapurApproximately 20 km from Berhampur, 35 km from Gopalpur and 4 km from the National Highway No.5 which connects Chennai and Calcutta, the virgin beach at Pati-Sonapur is one of the most exquisite on the east coast. Right on the confluence of the river Bahuda and the Bay of Bengal, the scenic beauty of the place is simply enchanting.

9. PuriFor centuries now, the beach at Puri has been the venue of countless pilgrims taking the traditional purification dip for Puri is the abode of Lord Jagannath and considered one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage destinations. However, for decades now, both Indian and foreign beach lovers have made it their special haunt.The fine white sands of Puri beach and the roar of the breakers rolling in from the Bay of Bengal have fascinated visitors throughout the ages. As it is with all the beaches of Orissa, overcrowding is never a problem and the sight of holiday-makers having entire stretches of the beach to themselves is not uncommon.

10. RamchandiOn the confluence of the river Kusabhadra and the Bay of Bengal, Ramchandi is a beautiful beach. Goddess Ramchandi, the presiding deity of the Konark region is worshipped here with reverence. Situated 7 km from Konark on the Marine Drive, Ramchandi is an ideal place to spend a couple of fun-filled hours.

11. TalasariAt a distance of 88 km from Balas ore, 4 km from Chandaneswar and 8 km from Digha (West Bengal) is the tranquil beach at Talasari. One could behold with wonder the glistening glory of the Bay of Bengal spread like a bejeweled carpet as far as one's eyes could reach. The shimmering surface, the myriad twinkles all around give this calm

The Wonder Triangle

(Lalitagiri, Ratnagiri, Udayagiri)

INTRODUCTION

Situated 90 kilometers to the northeast of Bhubaneswar are the isolated hills of the Assia range-Lalitagiri, Ratnagiri and Udayagiri. These hills possess the ruins of the most unique Buddhist monastic complex in the world.

1. LALITGIRI

Lalitagiri is situated at a distance of 10 kilometers beyond the River Virupa. Although earlier excavations had brought to light the importance of this complex, recent excavations have yielded some evidence of a more ancient Buddhist complex. On the basis of iconographical similarities, the chronology of this site now dates back to the Sunga period, i.e. the second century BC. If this is to be believed, then Lalitagiri could be considered as one of the earliest Buddhist establishments in the world. Among the many noteworthy discoveries at this site is an ancient stupa containing relics preserved in caskets of stone. Its antiquity and its silver and gold contents have led to speculations that these are relics of Lord Buddha. Further findings of black polished inscribed pieces of pottery of Ashokan Brahmi script and a number of inscriptional evidence such as Kushan inscriptions, ornamental Brahmi etc. have corroborated in establishing Lalitagiri as a flourishing Buddhist center of the second century BC. The monuments unearthed at Lalitagiri are unique. The most important edifice of the Lalitagiri complex so far discovered are the ruins of an apsidal temple located in a

strategic place surrounded by monasteries and stupas. These temples were constructed near Mathura and Taxila as well as on the Udayagiri hill near Bhubaneswar around the second century BC. Iconographically, Lalitagiri sculptures resemble Java and Southeast Asian prototypes. The Buddhist images at Lalitagiri are gigantic. Curling lips, dangling ears, elongated faces and sloping foreheads are some of the outstanding iconographical features of these Buddhist images

2. RATNAGIRI Ratnagiri and Udayagiri belong to a much later phase. Ratnagiri is separated from Udayagiri by the river Kimiria. It is said that Ratnagiri and Udayagiri were the nucleus of tantric Buddhism and it was from here that Buddhism spread to other parts of India and the world. The antiquity of tantric tradition in Orissa is corroborated by the discovery of a fragmented stone inscription containing a Buddha tantra, which on Paleographic grounds, can be dated to the sixth century AD. In the seventh century AD, its importance as the center of Vajra Yana was considerable enough to attract Saharapada, the high priest of Nalanda, who became one of the first gurus to preach the tantra doctrine openly to the laity. From Orissa, Mahasidha Saraha traveled to Maharashtra and is given credit for introducing the Tantra Yana to Eldora and western India. The excavation at Ratnagiri has revealed the remains of an imposing stupa, two quadrangular monasteries, a single winged monastery, eight temples, a large number of small stupas, sculptures, and architectural pieces indicative of an establishment that can be compared with the major Buddhist sites in the world. The site also yielded a rich crop of antiquities. Particularly noteworthy are the bronze and stone images of the Buddha and a host of idols of the Buddhist pantheon. A large head of the Buddha found on top the hill indicates the colossal nature of the original images. The artist has wonderfully reflected the inner mediation on the face by such devices as half open eyes. Both the monasteries impress the visitors as great monuments by their sculptural wealth and architectural grandeur. The rear wall of their front porches with an exuberance of sculptural figures and decorative patterns present a rare texture unparalleled in India. The exquisitely carved chlorite doorframe with Gaja-Lakshmi on the lintel and bands of floral motifs and creepers of exceptionally neat workmanship on the jambs is the most splendid of its kind. The nucleus of the complex dates from about the fifth century AD and it witnessed a phenomenal growth till the 12th century AD. It continued to be an important center till about the 16th century. During this period, it played a significant role in disseminating Buddhist religion and culture.

3. UDAIGIRI Udayagiri hill is situated about five kilometers southwest of Gopalpur on the Virupa River. The hill contains two spurs forming a sloping terrace, which is covered with

extensive archeological remains. At the foot of the hill there is a colossal image of Lokesvara holding a large lotus. Two separate inscriptions are found incised on it. Paleographically, the inscriptions can be dated to the eighth century AD. The peak of the hill contains broken pieces of sculptures and the ruins of ancient structures. Two four-armed images of Jatamukuta Lokesvara are also seen on this hill. A little to the south from the image, a colossal Buddha sitting in bhumisparsa mudra can be seen carved in several pieces of stone. Many sculptures from Udayagiri hills have been removed to the museum in Patna. HOW TO REACH Cuttack, the largest city of Orissa is at a distance of around 70 km from Ratnagiri, 60 km from Udayagiri, and 55 km from Lalitagiri. There are regular buses available to complete this circuit.

CAPTER 3

ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETAION

ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETAION

Tourism and leisure environment is rapidly evolving customer who is diversifying and competition is intensifying. The object of the training is to study the working of travel agency. Study about services provided by travel agency to customer and comparison between the services providers working in public and private in tourism industry. Tourism Industry Is Growing Very Fast and the Need for Package tours Is Increasing. Tour Operator Sells Tour Packages to the Customers. Therefore In This Project Emphasis Is On Package Tour. One should know how the package tour is made and for this purpose training is very important.

CHAPTER4

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

CONCLUSIONS

From the study of data it can be concluded that tourism in Orissa is reaching to its maximum heights.

Orissa is a place where one can find every thing they want from exotic places to challenging terrains.

Orissa attracts 3% of the seekers from all over the world and is among one of top 5 destination of India.

Each service location functions with an entrepreneurial spirit, providing a high level of professional service.

Each team member is empowered with decision making so that there is speed in service delivery.

Each customer request is treated with careful diligence and checked at each stage to ensure that every service is perfect within the time required.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Systematic strategy should be prepared for the study.

Proper analysis of different sources should be done so that maximum reliability can be achieved.

Proper detailing of the data should be done.

Always save a backup copy of your data so that there is no loss of data.

Always complete a topic first then go to the next.

Special institution should be established to provide necessary training in the field of tourism.

Government should establish a board which will protect and preserve famous tourism sports in orissa & also promotes orissa as a tourism spot in other parts of the world.

Customer friendly environment.

Being the age of electronics and change in the human attitude from social to materialistic and different lifestyles, every customer desire to be treated as special one as and when he visited to the travel agency being a client. Thus a customer friendly approach should be adopted to increase the size of satisfied customers.

BIBLIOGRAGHY

Internet search

http://orissa.gov.in/portal/default.asp

http://www.orissa-tourism.com/

http://www.orissalinks.com/orissagrowth/archives/372

http://www.orissatourism.gov.in/main.asp

http://www.mapsofindia.com/stateprofiles/orissa/index.html

www.google.com