India has vast culture, tradition and as a part of those cultures there are certain kind of food habits and food varieties that belong to particular region. The state of Odisha also has unique food habits and delicacies, each district in Odisha has a famous and unique dish.
Let us explore the special attractions and special food dish about one such district Kendrapara. First let us look at the tourist attractions of Kendrapara,
BhitarKanika
This place is a sanctuary covered with mangrove forest and Saline River, earlier this place was under the jurisdiction of Kanika Estate. This is spread over an area of 672 sq. km, it is home to vast species of birds and crocodiles, apart from these many migratory birds come here during winter.
Shri Baldev Jew
5 km from kendrapara town this temple is situated in Icchapur, it showcases the architectural heritage of Odisha. Lord Baladev is the main deity in the temple and is worshipped along with his siblings Lord Jagannath and Subhadra. The chariot on which the three deities ascend during the car festival or Rath Yatra is known as “Brahma Taladhwaja Rath” which is said to be the biggest chariot in the world.
Gahirmatha
This place is popularly known as Turtle sanctuary, because this is where we find Olive Ridley Turtles. Taking a boat ride across the river and gradually entering into the sea will be an unforgettable experience for anyone who comes here. This is the only marine sanctuary in Odisha with a wide range of flora and fauna. This place full of natural beauty is a feast to the eyes.
Batighar
This light house is situated in the village Batighar and is the first light house in eastern coast of Odisha. Construction of the lighthouse started on 6th December, 1836 and started functioning on 16th October 1837. The stones that were used in construction were transported from Barabati Fort, Cuttack. The height is 125 feet, foundation wall is 15 feet thick and the diameter at land level is 10 feet. To reach to the top, 138 steps are made of cement & concrete and a 16-step ladder is also there. The specialty of this lighthouse is that it is operational from the date of its lighting and is now managed by Calcutta Light House.
Hukitola
This building was constructed by the Britishers on Jambu Island in Bay of Bengal during the Naanka drought. This building was used to store rice that was imported from Burma. This building also has underground rainwater harvesting system. Many history lovers flock to this place to watch its glory. The uniqueness of this building lies in the design of its roof in a slope which helps in the flowing of rainwater into the ground.
Now coming to the Famous dish/food item from Kendrapara,
Rasabali
According to a belief this sweet dish originated from the Baladev Jew Temple, and this is offered to Lord Baladev Jew. This is one of the most famous sweet dish found in Odisha, this is also one of the Chhappan Bhogas that are offered to Lord Jagannath in Puri Dham. Rasabali consists of deep fried flattened reddish brown patties of chhena that are soaked in thickened, sweetened milk garnished with cardamoms.
So, come explore the tourist places and taste Rasabali mouthwatering sweet dish.
