A visit to Odisha (formerly Orissa) in eastern India will reveal an enchanting land affectionately referred to as the ‘Soul of India’ that is noted for its sublime temple architecture, colourful indigenous tribes, serene landscapes and unique artistic traditions. A visit to Odisha is perfect for the adventurous traveller looking to discover incredible India in her most raw form. Bhubaneshwar, the modern day capital of this captivating state is regarded as the ‘Varanasi of the East’ and is the gateway for most visits to Odisha. This sprawling metropolis is home to a staggering 600 temples commissioned during Odisha’s golden age. From Bhubaneshwar, you can also explore the impressive Jain cave temples of Udaygiri and Khandagiri. To the south-east, tranquil Chilika Lake is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. With the forested hills of the Eastern Ghats providing a scenic backdrop, the lake attracts over 160 species of birds and is a paradise for ornithologists. Nearby, Olive Ridley Turtles come ashore and lay their eggs (best seen from mid-December to February). Further south along the coastal plain is the sacred town of Puri, Odisha’s spiritual capital, which is home to the celebrated Lord Jagannath Temple. Puri is also an excellent base to discover the iconic UNESCO World Heritage listed Sun Temple at Konark, which is designed like a gigantic stone chariot with twenty-four intricately carved wheels and is dedicated to the Sun God ‘Surya’. Enroute to Puri, a short stop at the small villages of Raghurajpur and Pipli will offer you the chance to meet award-winnings artisans famed for their ‘applique’ work as well as ‘pattachitra’ paintings. From Puri, an inland drive along the Eastern Ghats will bring you to the secluded tribal belt in south-west Odisha, where the villages of Chatikona, Koraput and Goudgada offer you the chance to visit the weekly tribal markets and a glimpse into the lifestyle of the indigenous tribes: Dongria, Bonda and Gadaba. For those who enjoy rural pursuits, a visit to Odisha wouldn’t be complete without a short sojourn at the simple yet charming Dhenkanal Palace which is ideally located to visit and the weaving village of Nuapatna as well as Dokra village where craftsmen still employ the ancient lost-wax method and use scrap metal to create bracelets, artefacts.