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Dubbed the `best beach resort in Orissa by the cognoscenti, Gopalpur-on-Sea is a lovely laidback seaport village, far removed in spirit from the nearby temple towns of Orissa.

Starting life as an obscure little fishing village, Gopalpur-on-Sea became a prominent trading port during the days of the British East India Company. Today, neither the British nor the wealthy Bengalis who once made Gopalpur a vibrant, happening place are here any more. Gopalpur has gone back to being a quiet, relaxed place, but with one major difference- it’s today growing into one of India’s prettiest beach resorts. Nowhere as commercial and trendy as Goa, but with a charm all its own.

The tribal culture of Orissa survives in the ethnic communities in the hills and forests around Ganjam. Visits can be arranged to the tribal villages, with sufficient notice for official permission, especially during the festivals and markets. Be prepared to trek up the hills and to camp in very basic accommodation.