The first locations that spring to mind while thinking about famous tourist destinations in Odisha are historic museums, cultural centers, and ancient caverns. Odisha is a place with a lot to offer travelers of all stripes. Orissa has a plethora of intriguing sites to explore, ranging from enjoyable picnic areas and zoological parks to visiting the ancient caverns with stunning rock carvings. One of the most well-known features of Odisha is its temple, which draws tourists seeking spiritual experiences from all over the world. The colorful and lively state of Odisha is well-known for its beaches, national parks, hill stations, valleys, and temples, among other things. Here are some mesmerising places to visit in Odisha!
Top Places to Visit in Odisha: Turn Every Moment into a Cherished Memory
If you’re looking for an exciting trip to Odisha, then here are the best places to visit in Odisha for a fun-filled vacation.
- Jagannatha Temple Puri
- Bhubaneshwar
- Konark
- Udayagiri and Kandagiri Caves
- Hirakud Dam
- Tikarpada widelife santuary
- Chandipur
- Simlipal National Park
- Barbil
- Daringbadi
1. Jagannatha Temple Puri: Sacred Solace
Odisha is referred to as the home of Lord Jagannatha, who is the Lord of the Universe in direct translation. The temple, which dates back to the 12th century AD, is the hub of the Jagannath religion, drawing people from all over the world to Puri every year.
The architectural magnificence of this majestic temple is overshadowed by the mystique surrounding the religion of Lord Jagannath. This is one of the places to visit in Puri Odisha. Constructed on an elevated platform, the enormous temple is a unique architectural masterpiece.
Up to the 16th century AD, the temple's construction was expanded upon. The majority of the sculptures on the temples are of gods and goddesses, in contrast to other temples in the area. Two concentric walls, the Kuruma Bheda (inner wall) and the Meghnad Pachira (wall), encircle the whole temple complex. The primary temple is built so that, during the day, no shadow from the structure falls on the earth.
Best time to visit: October to February
Major attractions: Puri beach, Markandeshwar Temple, Atharnala Bridge, Gundicha temple
Nearby Stays: The Yellow Hotel by FESTIN, Seven Hills Hotel, Hans Coco Palms, Pride Ananya Resort
2. Bhubaneshwar: City of Temples
Once renowned for its opulent temples and architecture, Bhubaneswar, often known as the "temple city" of India, is today a bustling hub for industry and trade.
Beautiful medieval temples in Bhubaneshwar, an old city, draw pilgrims and visitors from all over the nation. The city's name, which literally translates to "Lord of the Universe," is appropriately indicative of the quantity of temples and the fervent religiosity of its inhabitants. Today, this vibrant city has a well-integrated past with a forward-thinking, contemporary present. Being the epicenter of religious tourism, Bhubaneshwar is home to several magnificent temples that were constructed centuries ago and have remained true to their original design over the years.
Major Attractions: Parashurameshwara Temple, Rajarani Temle, Hirakud Dam, Lingaraj Temple, Bindu Sarovara.
Best time to visit: September to March
Nearby stays: Mayfair Lagoon, Mayfair Convention, Hotel empires and Vivanta Bhubaneshwar, DN Square
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3. Konark: Architectural Splendor
Konark, in the state of Orissa, is well known across the globe for its stunning sandy beaches, the Sun Temple—which is now recognized as a UNESCO globe Heritage Site—and its annual dance festival.
The Sun Temple in Konark is one of India's most exquisite temples and an architectural wonder. This is the best place to visit in Odisha! The Annual Dance Festival is a five-day cultural spectacle that brings together exceptional dance talent from throughout the nation. This festival honors the diverse dance styles that our nation has created and is a spectacular celebration of our nation's rich cultural and artistic heritage. The Sun Temple serves as the background for the festivities, which gives the entire event an air of grandeur and beauty.
In addition, Konark is the site of the Sun Festival, during which followers of the Sun God bathe in the ocean as an act of piety. A Handicrafts Mela, held in conjunction with the Dance Festival, offers superbly created items that are one-of-a-kind and elegantly represent the Oriya art form. So, if you're exploring famous places to visit in Odisha, Konark should undoubtedly be on your list.
Major attractions: Archeological Museum, the temple of Sun God & Ramchandi, Chandrabhaga Beach
Best time to visit: October to March
Nearby Stays: Lotus Eco Resort and Eco Retreat Konark
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4. Udayagiri and Kandagiri Caves: Ancient Echoes in Rock Chambers
These are the locations where religion, art, and rock-cut building abound. A pleasant location to take your family is the two hills, which rise sharply from the coastal plain and are divided by a highway around six kilometers west of Bhubaneswar. Among the tourists this is one of the top place to visit in Odisha. It has a great deal of historical significance and resembles little Ajanta Ellora caves.
Udayagiri (Hill of Sunrise) :
The hill on the right is called Udayagiri, and a set of steps leads up to its eighteen caves. Due to its historical significance and sculptures and reliefs, the largest and most magnificent caves, Rani Gumpha, also known as Queen's Cave, Hathigumpha (cave 14), and Ganeshagumpha (cave 10), are particularly well-known.
Khandagiri (Broken Hills):
On the other side of Udayagiri is Khandagiri, which is home to fifteen caves. Well-known for its carved representations of ladies, athletes, elephants, and geese with flowers is the Ananta cave (cave 3). The summit of the Khandagiri Hills is home to the Digambara Jaina Temple.
Best time to visit: October to February
Major attractions: State tribal museum, Rani Ghumpa, Baitala temple, Bramheswara Temple
Nearby stays: Mayfair Convention, Hotel Empires and Swosti Premium
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5. Hirakud Dam: Majestic Dam Amidst Scenic Surroundings
Hirakud Dam is the largest dam in India. The Mahanadi River is where the dam is being built. This dam is unquestionably unique among India's dams. Sambalpur District is located close to the Hirakud Dam. One of the main draws is a drive-through road that crosses the dam 21 kilometers over as you marvel at its skill and ingenuity. Of course, the expansive perspective that the Gandhi and Nehru Minarets, which are situated on the northern facade of the dam, provide is another remarkable aspect of the structure. With trees and lots of water all around, it's a great place to go birding as well.
The Hirakud Dam's charming setting and abundant lush foliage are sure to please any nature enthusiast. Between the Burla and Hirakud Hills is where the dam is located.
The dam produces hydroelectricity and irrigates 7,500,000 hectares of land in addition to offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Budharaja Hill, so named because of the Budharaja Temple at its summit, is a hill close to the Hirakud Dam. It's not just a dam visit; it's a deep dive into the heart of one of the best places in Odisha to visit.
Best time to visit: October to February
Major attraction: Jawahar Minar, Leaning Temple of Huma, Bimaleswar Temple, Hirakhand and Maa Samaleswari Temple
Nearby stays: Regenta Inn Sampalpur
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6. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary: Riverside Wilderness Retreat
The Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is a well-known sanctuary that is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. It is situated in the hamlet of Tikarpada in the Angul district of Orissa. The wildlife sanctuary, which covers an area of 795.52 km2, is surrounded by the magnificent Satkosia Gorge, which is 22 km long and formed by the Mahanadi River flowing amid lush hills. Many endangered crocodiles are supported at a "Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre" located in the Mahanadi eco system.
Numerous animal species, including tigers, pangolins, Indian pittas, red jungle fowl, Indian adjutant stroke, and others, may be found in the wildlife reserve. Other species that may be found here include wild cats, spotted deer, leopards, and rhesus macaques. Additionally, one may enjoy bird watching here and see a variety of bird species.
Adventure seekers may enjoy activities such as whitewater rafting, fishing, and wildlife observation here. The greatest way to see the genuine splendor of this area is to take a hike through the verdant Sal woods and surrounding areas. Gharials breed in the Gharial Sanctuary in Tikarpada and are then released into the Mahanadi River, which is their native habitat. The Sanctuary is home to several types of turtles, crocodiles, and snakes.
Best time to visit: October to February
Major attractions: Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary, Binikei Temple and Nandinia Waterfall Hindol
Nearby stays: Hotel Kamlesh Continental and Hotel Shakthi Continental
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7. Chandipur: Seaside Serenity
Confused on things to do in Odisha? Worry not! Visit Chandipur. There is no beach like Chandipur. At low tide, the beach retreats up to 5 km, allowing people to stroll on the ocean floor. The beach's equally unusual biodiversity is supported by this unique phenomena.Among other things, it is home to sea urchins, starfish, and endangered horse shoe crabs. The beach's dirty water makes it unsuitable for swimming.
Always follow the advise of the locals while strolling on the sea bed during low tide, as the water rushes in during high tide.
Best time to visit: October to March
Major attraction: Shopping at Sunarpur Chowkand,
Nearby stays: Arpita Beach Resort
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8. Similipal National Park: Wildlife and Greenery
The Similipal Tiger Reserve is a location where the breathtaking beauty, elegance, majesty, and tranquility of nature envelop you. Red silk cotton semul trees, which are widely distributed in the area, are the source of Similipal's name. The Tiger Reserve is also home to an enormous variety of wild orchids, which give the forest a charming romantic feel. One is mesmerized by the spectacular Joranda, Baharepani, and other lesser waterfalls, and the Tiger Reserve's charm is flawlessly complemented by the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger.
Similipal is one of the best places to visit in Odisha during the winter. Similipal is one of the first nine officially recognized tiger reserves, created in 1973. A rare Melanistic Tiger, often known as a Black Tiger, was found in Similipal recently—possibly for the first time in its history.
The spectacular Baheripani waterfall, where water drops from a height of 400 meters, and the Joranda waterfall, where water drops from a height of 150 meters, are the result of meandering rivers that meander through the forest's slopes. For any nature lovers, you shouldn't miss out on this place.
Major attractions: Barehipani Waterfall, Debakunda, Sitakund Waterfall, Chaulabhaja Waterfall
Best time to visit: October to March
Nearby Stays: Lulung Aranya Nivas Resort and Similipal Eco Cottage
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9. Barbil: Mining Town with Rustic Charm
Barbil, located in the Odisha district of Kendujhar/Keonjhar, is a well-liked tourist site and a spot for honeymoon in Odisha. It is located along the Karo River's bank. Barbil is a well-liked location with a special fusion of history, mythology, and scenic beauty. Known and fortunate to possess the greatest iron ore and manganese ore deposits in the world. The majority of the iron ore is sent to China as well.
Barbil is well-known as a corporate and industrial center. Mining operations have caused the atmosphere to become dusty. Barbil is sometimes referred to as the "capital of mining" in northern Odisha. With an estimated age of 38,000 million years, the oldest rocks in the world are a highly visited tourist destination. Travelers may catch a glimpse of Kiriburu's captivating sunset scenery, which is further enhanced by the sound of chirping birds making their way back home. Thousands of worshippers from all across Odisha visit the well-known Maa Tarini temple every day, dating back to a bygone age. Numerous additional tourist destinations may be found in and near Barbil.
Major attractions: Ghatgaon Maa Tarini Temple, Sana Ghagra, Sitabinji, Kanjhari Dam and Murga Mahadev Waterfalls.
Best time to visit: October to March.
Nearby stays: The World Hotels and Resorts, Barbil
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Ayodhya: A Timeless Journey to the Ramayana Period
10. Daringbadi: Kashmir of Odisha
The hill stations of Phulbani are an attractive place for people who love pine forests and waterfalls. This is one of the places to visit in Odisha during summer. For travelers from different parts of the world, there are different accommodations, such as Daringbadi Nature Camp and Belghar Nature Camp. It’s full of mesmerizing valleys filled with pepper and coffee. This is also the land of the “Kutia Kondhas” (ancient tribes of India). This will be the perfect escape from your busy life.
Daringbadi is also known as the Kashmir of Odisha. There are numerous breathtaking series of waterfalls. And make sure you do not miss out on any of these places to visit in Odisha. Some popular waterfalls are Daringbadi waterfall, Putudi waterfall, Dadubaba waterfall and Ludu waterfall.
Major attractions: Midubanda Waterfall , Pangali Valley, Coffee Plantation Garden, Bird watching, treks & Jungle safari to experience the beauty of the Eastern Ghats, Mandasaru Kuti in Raikia Block, Emu Bird Sanctuary.
Best time to visit: October to February
Nearby stays: Eco Retreat Daringbadi and Panacea Eco Resorts
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Odisha beckons with a tapestry of captivating destinations that cater to every traveler's taste. From the UNESCO heritage site of Konark's Sun Temple to the ancient allure of Udayagiri and Kandagiri Caves – Odisha unfolds as a treasure trove of cultural and natural wonders.
As you explore these top 10 places to visit in Odisha, remember that each destination offers a window into Odisha's rich cultural heritage, natural splendor, and warm hospitality. Whether you seek spiritual solace, historical revelations, or simply the joy of discovering unexplored landscapes, Odisha has it all. So, pack your bags and start your journey with our Odisha tour packages. Don't wait any longer!
FAQs
Konark – The Land of Ancient Temples
UNESCO World Heritage site is the most famous tourist place is Odisha. That is, Sun temple, Konark. This place is one of the best places for people who love to experience spirituality. Sun temple is literally an architectural beauty and one of the best structures that you can see in India.
A few of the top destinations of Odisha include the Shri Jagannath Temple, Konark Temple, Bhitarkanika National Park and Chilika Lake. A few of the top destinations of Odisha include the Shri Jagannath Temple, Konark Temple, Bhitarkanika National Park and Chilika Lake.
Lord Jagannath Temple Puri
The most revered pilgrimage site in India is the Jagannath temple, which honors Lord Vishnu. The temple, which is located in the Indian state of Odisha, is a powerful representation of Hinduism.
Santula, a traditional Oriya delicacy and one of the main cuisines of Orissa/Odisha, is something you should definitely savor on your journey. The recipe has all the ingredients for a nutritious meal because it is made with raw papaya, brinjal, and tomato and has more greens than seasonings.
It takes at least five to seven days to see the most well-known locations in Odisha, including as Bhubaneswar, Puri, Konark, and Chilika Lake. 10–14 days would be perfect, incorporating some unusual locations like Raghurajpur, Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary, Simlipal National Park, and Gopalpur-on-Sea.
When temperatures vary from 16°C to 28°C between October and February, the winter and fall seasons are the ideal times to visit Odisha. This season is much more beautiful because of the festive sentiments, which makes it even more appropriate for travel.
The Shalwar kameez or Sari Sambalpuri Sari is often worn by ladies; however, younger women in cities and towns are starting to favor western clothing. The globe over, there is a great demand for Odisha sarees.
Daringbadi, sometimes known as the "Kashmir of Odisha," is a large region situated around 3000 feet above sea level. It is a perfect summer retreat. The area is endowed with many natural resources, including gorgeous valleys, coffee estates, and pine forests.
It's also referred to as India's Temple State. There are more than 600 exquisite medieval temples with exquisite construction. Odisha also has one of the Char Dhams (pilgrims). Of all the Indian states, Odisha's government has one of the best-maintained structures.
Experience a little of the rich history, culture, and food of Odisha and let the serene ambience to seep into your soul. This state, which is in the east of the nation, is intriguing for any traveler who is interested in learning more because it is the location of one of the four most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites.
