Welcome to our 4th installment of Travel Tuesday! Rupa Mishra, who assists in our PR/Social Media efforts, spent a lot of time in India over the years visiting her grandparents - often traveling during hot college summers to pursue intensive dance training.
She fondly refers to the state of Orissa as a hidden gem tucked away in eastern India, which is often overshadowed by its neighboring state Bengal and the bustling city of Kolkata. As a travel destination, Orissa can feel more authentic, with a rich history and a variety of arts. Rupa recommends soaking in the colorful sights, sounds and activities - a truly unique experience. On any given day, you may just stumble upon a wedding and funeral on the very same street block!
Where to Go
Rupa’s favorite landmark is the Sun Temple, located in
Konark, which is a stunning relic of the past. Built in 1250 A.D. by King
Narasimhadeva, the purpose of its construction is still under dispute. Carved completely in stone, the Sun Temple incorporates sculptures of Odissi, which is the oldest classical Indian dance
form, as well as carved wheels representing a chariot. The tremendous detail in the carvings
is magnificent.
Photo sourced from www.freakytraveler.com
Photo sourced from www.alechimwich.com
Where to Shop
Rupa prefers the art shops to the modern shopping centers in Bhubaneshwar, the capital city. Just outside the city, you can find local handmade art, which is delicately painted on leaves called Patachitra. This type of scroll painting commonly depicts Hindu gods and goddesses, and is an age old tradition dating back to 5th century B.C.
Photo sourced from www.artplatter.com
You can also make your way to the small town of Pipli (en route to Puri beach) to pick up some colorful lanterns or wall art.
Photo sourced from www.riace.in
What to Eat
When you're feeling hungry, look to the hotels for some shrimp kabobs, deep fried shrimp pakora or chili chicken. However, if you're looking for street food on-the-go, Rupa recommends fresh roadside coconut water. It's also usually safe to try street food as long as it's served hot! Her go-to bite (prior to becoming a vegetarian) was a hot chicken roll from a local street vendor in Cuttack - about 30 minutes from Bhubhaneswar. You don’t even need to speak the local language. Simply saying ‘chicken roll' is the universal word to order this spicy concoction of chicken, onions and fried egg all rolled up in a warm paratha (wheat flour bread) --with a 'Thumbs Up' cola to wash it down!
Photo sourced from www.showmethecurry.com