There are some places in the India that are special, and Odisha is definitely one of them. Filled with exquisite temples and extraordinary monuments, home to many thousands of prolific artists and craftsmen; and possessing beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, and natural landscape of often-enchanting beauty, Odisha is a unique and fascinating land that is, nevertheless, still largely undiscovered by tourists. Odisha is a place like no other, a glowing green jewel of a state. The high hills and mountains of the Eastern Ghats seal the western borders. In between there is a peaceful rural beauty. Odisha is home to three mighty rivers and to the largest fresh/salt water lake in Asia. A tiny locale in the state of Orissa, Konark is renowned for its centuries old Temple, alluring trendy beach and of course for the much acclaimed dance festival. Konark alias Arka-Tirtha is in fact a combination of Kona and Arka which means the sun around the crook. The outstanding monuments of Konark reflect the quintessence of Oriyan architecture. A thriving centre of art and culture, once the heart land of erstwhile Kalinga Kingdom, Bhubaneswar is presently renowned as the capital city of State of Orissa in India. Bhubaneswar, literally means the Lord (eswar) of the Universe (bhuban), is a hub of historic temples and the city is webbed with many concrete lanes. The grand city is renowned for its temples as well as applique work of Pipli, Ikat sarees, cane furniture and Bidri-ware. Art is an integral part of the city life from time immemorial, the world renowned Odissi dance form has originated in this city.