The tropical state of Orissa lies along the eastern seaboard of India, south of Bengal. Its main attractions are the temples of the capital Bhubaneshwar, the long sandy beach at Puri especially during the Rath Yatra and great mystery-shrouded 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 Eastern Ghats. The state is mineral rich and is a big exporter of iron ore, with a large factory at Rourkela.

Few visitors venture outside the Bhubaneshwar-Puri-Konark triangle, but although travel off the beaten track in Orissa is often rough with few tourist facilities, it can be an interesting and rewarding experience. Tiger, elephants and waterfalls in the beautiful forests of Similipal National Park is one such example. The Oriyas, 25% of whom are indigenous tribal people, are particularly friendly and hospitable.