(CNN) — The eastern India state of Odisha, stretching for more than 300 miles along the Bay of Bengal, bristles with architectural and cultural gems. Tom Vater/CNNPuri Beach is the state's most popular beach, busy with local tourists and lined with countless hotels. Laure Siegel/CNNThe Amulya Bhavan or Priceless Palace, a handsome mansion on Puri beach, was built by a Bengali Maharaja in 1902. Z Hotel , Chakra Tirtha Rd, Badasirei, Puri, Odisha 752002, +91 675 222 2554, from Rs. Laure Siegel/CNNDistinct from north and south Indian cuisine, Odisha's dishes rely very much on local vegetables and are mildly spiced.

Source: CNN November 27, 2017 00:56 UTC