Best Places to Visit in Odisha | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Odisha Travel Guide
Quick overview of Odisha with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Odisha, India! Located on the eastern coast of the country, Odisha is a state known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and ancient temples. With a history dating back to over 2,000 years, this region is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders and architectural marvels. From the famous Sun Temple in Konark to the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha offers a glimpse into the glorious past of India. In addition to its historical significance, Odisha is also blessed with picturesque landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush forests, and serene lakes. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Odisha has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure in this captivating state of India.
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Best Places To Visit in Odisha
1. Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination. Known as the "Temple City of India," it is home to numerous ancient temples, including the famous Lingaraj Temple and the intricately carved Mukteshwar Temple. The city also boasts beautiful lakes, such as Bindusagar Lake, and lush green parks like the Nandankanan Zoological Park. Bhubaneswar is a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit city in Odisha.
2. Puri: Located on the Bay of Bengal, Puri is a coastal town famous for its magnificent Jagannath Temple. The temple attracts millions of devotees every year and is an important pilgrimage site in India. Puri is also known for its pristine beaches, such as the Golden Beach and Swargadwar Beach, where visitors can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. The town's vibrant local markets offer a variety of handicrafts and traditional artifacts, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs.
3. Konark: Konark is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sun Temple. This architectural marvel is dedicated to the Sun God and is known for its intricate stone carvings depicting various mythological stories. The town's serene beaches, such as Chandrabhaga Beach, are perfect for a peaceful getaway. Konark also hosts the annual Konark Dance Festival, where artists from all over the country showcase their talent in classical dance forms.
4. Cuttack: Situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River, Cuttack is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is famous for its Durga Puja celebrations, which attract thousands of visitors every year. Cuttack is also home to the Barabati Fort, a medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the city. The Stone Revetment along the riverfront is a popular spot for evening strolls, offering a picturesque view of the river.
5. Rourkela: Rourkela is a planned city known for its steel industry and is often referred to as the "Steel City of Odisha." The city is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a peaceful environment. The Hanuman Vatika, a sprawling park dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is a major attraction in Rourkela. The Vedvyas Temple and the Indira Gandhi Park are other notable places to visit in the city.
6. Sambalpur: Sambalpur is a city known for its rich textile heritage and the famous Sambalpuri sarees. The Hirakud Dam, one of the longest earthen dams in the world, is a major tourist attraction in Sambalpur. The city is also home to the Samaleswari Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Samaleswari. The Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Sambalpur, offers a chance to explore the region's diverse flora and fauna.
7. Paradip: Paradip is a bustling port town located on the Bay of Bengal. It is known for its pristine beaches, such as Paradip Beach and Gahirmatha Beach, which is famous for its nesting turtles. The town also offers opportunities for water sports like boating and fishing. The Paradip Port is a major industrial hub and provides a glimpse into the region's maritime activities.
8. Jeypore: Jeypore is a picturesque town located in the Koraput district of Odisha. Surrounded by lush green forests and hills, it is a paradise for nature lovers. The Gupteshwar Cave Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a popular pilgrimage site in Jeypore. The town is also known for its vibrant tribal culture, and visitors can witness traditional tribal dances and rituals during festivals.
9. Chilika: Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, is a major tourist attraction in Odisha. The lake is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds like flamingos and pelicans. Visitors can take boat rides to explore the lake and its numerous islands, such as Nalabana Island and Kalijai Island. Chilika is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
10. Berhampur: Berhampur, also known as Brahmapur, is a bustling commercial city in Odisha. The city is famous for its vibrant silk weaving industry and is known for its Berhampuri silk sarees. The Gopalpur Beach, located near Berhampur, is a popular tourist spot known for its golden sand and tranquil surroundings. The city's bustling markets and delicious street food make it a great place to explore local culture and cuisine.
Hotels Map Of Odisha
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Tours And Activities In Odisha
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Food & Drinks To Try In Odisha
1. Pakhala: This is a traditional dish of Odisha and is essentially fermented rice soaked in water. It is usually served with various accompaniments like fried fish, curries, and vegetables. Pakhala is a popular choice during the hot summer months as it is refreshing and helps to beat the heat.
2. Chhena Poda: This is a famous dessert from Odisha made with fresh cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom. The cheese is baked until it turns golden brown, giving it a caramelized flavor. Chhena Poda is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
3. Dalma: Dalma is a traditional lentil and vegetable stew that is a staple in Odia cuisine. It is made with lentils, vegetables like pumpkin, brinjal, and raw banana, and flavored with spices like cumin, ginger, and turmeric. Dalma is usually served with steamed rice and is a wholesome and nutritious dish.
4. Macha Ghanta: This is a popular seafood dish in Odisha, especially in the coastal regions. It is made with fish, prawns, and vegetables cooked in a spicy gravy made with mustard paste, turmeric, and other spices. Macha Ghanta is usually enjoyed with rice or roti.
5. Rasagola: Odisha is known for its version of the famous Indian sweet, Rasagola. These soft and spongy cheese balls are made from chhena (cottage cheese) and soaked in a sugar syrup flavored with cardamom. Rasagola is a popular dessert and is often served during festivals and special occasions.
6. Chhena Jhili: Another popular sweet dish from Odisha, Chhena Jhili is made with deep-fried cottage cheese dumplings soaked in sugar syrup. The dumplings are crispy on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside, making it a delightful treat for dessert lovers.
7. Mudhi Mansa: This is a unique street food dish from Odisha that combines puffed rice (mudhi) with spicy mutton curry (mansa). The puffed rice is mixed with the flavorful curry, creating a delicious and crunchy snack. Mudhi Mansa is a popular street food option and is often enjoyed with a cup of tea.
8. Kanika: Kanika is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish from Odisha. It is made with basmati rice, ghee, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. The rice is cooked with vegetables, cashews, and raisins, giving it a rich and aromatic taste. Kanika is often served during festivals and special occasions.
9. Chhena Gaja: Chhena Gaja is a popular sweet from Odisha made with deep-fried cottage cheese dumplings soaked in sugar syrup. The dumplings are shaped like diamonds and have a crispy outer layer and a soft and sweet filling. Chhena Gaja is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
10. Aloo Dum: Aloo Dum is a spicy and tangy potato curry that is a popular side dish in Odisha. The potatoes are cooked in a thick gravy made with tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices. Aloo Dum is often enjoyed with puris or parathas and is a comforting and flavorful dish.
Best Time To Visit Odisha
The best time to visit Odisha, India is during the winter months of November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal time to explore the beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and wildlife sanctuaries that Odisha has to offer. Additionally, this period coincides with several festivals and cultural events, such as the Konark Dance Festival and the Puri Beach Festival, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. It is important to note that Odisha experiences a monsoon season from June to September, which brings heavy rainfall and can hinder outdoor activities. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid visiting during this time.
Flight Calendar For Odisha
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Transportation To Odisha
There are several transportation options to Odisha, India.
1. By Air: The state has several airports, including Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is the largest airport in Odisha. It is well-connected to major cities in India and also has international flights.
2. By Train: Odisha has an extensive railway network, and there are several major railway stations in the state, including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Berhampur. These stations are well-connected to various cities across India.
3. By Road: Odisha has a well-developed road network, and one can reach the state by bus or car. National Highways like NH16, NH55, and NH57 connect Odisha to neighboring states and major cities in India.
4. By Sea: Odisha has a coastline along the Bay of Bengal, and there are ports like Paradip and Dhamra that handle cargo and passenger ships. However, passenger ferry services are limited.
Once in Odisha, there are various local transportation options available, including buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws, to travel within the state.