5 Least Explored Destinations In The Golden Triangle Of Odisha

The Golden Triangle of Odisha is the route connecting the capital city of Bhubaneswar to the pilgrimage of Puri and the UNESCO World Heritage site of the famous Konark Temple. While the circuit in itself is pretty frequently explored, there are a couple of villages and sites of historical, cultural and artistic importance which is often missed out on. In fact, a couple of these spots would not even be in your travel itinerary is you don’t avail the services of a local guide.

Although not as popular as the vertices of the famous Golden Triangle, these places are a must visit if you want to truly experience the various aspects of life in Odisha.

Here is the list of these 5 destinations which should find their way into your travel plans for your next visit to Odisha.

* Udayagiri and Khandagiri

While sight-seeing in Bhubaneswar, do not miss out on the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves. These are thepartly natural and partly artificial caves of archaeological, historical and religious importance near the city. The caves, known to have been built during the 1st century BCE are situated on two adjacent hills. Udyayagiri and Khandagiri house 18 and 15 ornately carved double storeyed caves said to have been built for the Jain monks. Archaeological Survey of India has listed Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves in the list of "Must See" Indian Heritage.

* Dhauli

Located on the banks of river Daya, 8 kilometres south of Bhubaneswar, Dhauli is the city associated with thegreat legends of Emperor Ashoka. As you spend time exploring the Peace pagoda, Edicts of Ashoka's messages and ancient templesin the city, you can feel history come alive. It is said the bloodbath war of Kalinga had turned the river Daya red and it is this gruesome scene of death and destruction which had turned the great Emperor Ashoka to Buddhism. While in the city, so not forget to snack on the local delicacies.

* Pipili

As you drive further ahead from Dhauli, you will come across the quaint little city of Pipili. It is a town of artisans famous for their colourful fabrics. Most famous among the handiworks of these artisans is designing and making of beautiful Applique handicrafts. If you have time to spare, you can spend it in fruitful conversations with the craftspeople who will relate to you the origins of the craft. However, if you are just making a quick stop, this place offers a great collection of stop and grab gifts.

* Chandrabhaga Light House

As you approach Konark on your way from Bhubaneswar, at a distance of mere 3 kilometres from Konark is the Chandrabhaga light house. If you make it there on time for the small window of the visiting hours between 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., you will be able to enjoy the spectacular view of the sunset from the upper observations deck of the light house. Built in 1967, this is a perfect pit stop to take in the magnificent view of the marine drive road, Balukhanda forest cover and the Bay of Bengal.

* Raghurajpur

Located at 10 kilometres drive from the temple town of Puri is the little town of Raghurajpur. This is the birthplace of the late Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, a notable Odissi dancer and teacher. Raghurajpur is also home to the Odiya craftspeople who specialise in the traditional art forms like pattachitra, ganjapa, and palm-leaf painting.

While visiting these places do not forget to indulge yourself in the local cuisines and into conversations with the locals to enjoy the real taste of Odisha.