Odisha is a state located in the eastern region of India. It has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its beautiful temples, beaches, and natural beauty. The capital city is Bhubaneswar and the official language is Odia. The state is known for its handloom and handicraft industry, especially for its traditional sarees and silver filigree work. Odisha is also famous for its traditional dance forms like Odissi, Chhau, and Gotipua. The state has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chilika Lake. Odisha has a diverse cuisine, which includes seafood, vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Some popular delicacies are Dalma, Chenna Poda, and Rasagola.
Top 27 Odisha most popular places
- Puri Beach
- Konark Sun Temple
- Lingaraj Temple
- Chilika Lake
- Dhauli Hill
- Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
- Nandankanan Zoological Park
- Mukteswara Temple
- Ansupa Lake
- Simlipal National Park
- Hirakud Dam
- Jagannath Temple
- Ratnagiri Buddhist Excavation
- Chandrabhaga Beach
- Barabati Fort
- Satkosia Gorge
- Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary
- Bhitarkanika National Park
- Pipili Village
- Gopalpur
- Daringbadi
- Phulbani
- Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary
- Talasari beach
- Chandipur Beach
- Deomali
Puri Beach
Puri Beach is a popular tourist destination located in the state of Odisha, India. It is situated on the Bay of Bengal and stretches over a distance of 35 km. The beach is known for its golden sands, blue waters, and beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Puri Beach is also home to the famous Jagannath Temple, which is one of the four most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at the beach, such as swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There are also numerous food and souvenir vendors along the beach. However, it is important to note that the beach can be crowded, particularly during peak tourist season.
Konark Sun Temple
Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun God, located in Konark, Odisha, India. It is widely known for its impressive architecture and intricate stone carvings. The temple is designed in the form of a chariot with 12 wheels, pulled by seven horses, and is believed to have been built by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts thousands of visitors every year. However, it is currently in a state of disrepair and undergoing restoration work.
Lingaraj Temple
The Lingaraj Temple is a Hindu temple located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the oldest and largest temples in the city, dating back to the 11th century. The temple stands at a height of 55 meters and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The Lingaraj Temple is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake, located in the Indian state of Odisha, is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest in the world. It is spread over an area of 1,100 square kilometers and is connected to the Bay of Bengal by a narrow mouth. The lake is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including over 160 species of birds, including migratory birds, and around 225 species of fish. It is also an important site for the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin. Chilika Lake is a popular tourist destination and offers activities like boating, fishing, and bird watching.
Dhauli Hill
Dhauli Hill is a significant historical site located in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is known for the rock edicts of Ashoka, an Indian emperor who ruled from 268 to 232 BCE. The edicts are inscriptions on rocks that contain messages about Buddhism and Ashoka’s policies.
Dhauli Hill is also associated with the Kalinga War, a major battle fought between Ashoka’s army and the Kalinga kingdom in 261 BCE. The war had a profound impact on Ashoka, who embraced Buddhism and renounced violence after witnessing the bloodshed and suffering caused by the war.
Today, Dhauli Hill is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and attracts tourists from around the world. It features a white peace pagoda, a temple, and a park with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The hill is also a symbol of peace and nonviolence, and serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and forgiveness.
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves are ancient Jain and Hindu rock-cut cave monuments located near Bhubaneswar, the capital city of the Indian state of Odisha. These caves were carved out of sandstone hills during the reign of King Kharavela of the Mahameghavahana dynasty in the 1st century BCE.
Udayagiri Caves comprise 18 caves, while Khandagiri Caves consist of 15 caves. The caves were initially used as residential blocks for Jain monks and were also used as a site for meditation and religious rituals. The caves also served as a military observation point during the reign of King Kharavela.
The caves have intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various themes, including Jain Tirthankaras, Hindu deities, and royal processions. The Hathi Gumpha (Elephant Cave) in the Udayagiri Caves is particularly noteworthy for its inscriptions, which provide valuable information about the history and culture of ancient Odisha.
Today, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves are popular tourist destinations and are recognized as important national monuments by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Nandankanan Zoological Park
Nandankanan Zoological Park is located in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha in India. It is spread over an area of 437 hectares and was opened to the public in 1979. The park is home to over 1580 animals from 157 species including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The most popular attractions of the park are the white tigers and the Indian pangolins. The park also has a botanical garden and a lake where boating facilities are available. It is a popular tourist destination and a great place for families to spend the day.
Mukteswara Temple
The Mukteswara Temple is a 10th century Hindu temple located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. It is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures, which feature a blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain elements. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture. It has a unique torana (arched gateway) and is famous for its richly decorated exterior walls, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology and the daily lives of people during that era. The temple is an important pilgrimage site and a popular tourist destination.
Ansupa Lake
Ansupa Lake is a freshwater lake located in the Cuttack district of Odisha, India. It is a horseshoe-shaped lake spread over an area of approximately 140 hectares. The lake is surrounded by hills and forests, making it a picturesque location for tourists. The lake is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds. The water of the lake is used for irrigation purposes and fishing. The lake is a popular spot for boating and other water activities.
Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park is located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, India. It is spread over an area of 2,750 square kilometers and is known for its rich biodiversity. The park is home to many endangered species, including tigers, elephants, and Indian bison. It also has several waterfalls and scenic spots that attract tourists. The park is open to visitors from October to June and offers various activities such as trekking, bird watching, and nature photography.
Hirakud Dam
Hirakud Dam is a multipurpose dam located in the state of Odisha, India. It is built across the Mahanadi River which is the largest river in Odisha. The dam is one of the longest earthen dams in the world, with a length of 25.8 km and a height of 60 meters. It was built in 1957 and serves the purpose of controlling floods, generating hydroelectric power, and providing irrigation to the surrounding areas. The dam has the capacity to hold up to 4.8 billion cubic meters of water and has a hydroelectric power plant with a capacity of 307.5 MW. The dam has also created a large reservoir, known as Hirakud Reservoir, which is a popular tourist destination and a source of water for various purposes.
Jagannath Temple
Jagannath Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) located in Puri, Odisha, India. The temple is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus and is considered one of the holiest shrines in India. The temple is an architectural marvel, with its towering spires and intricate carvings showcasing the rich heritage and culture of Odisha. The temple also hosts the annual Rath Yatra, which is a grand festival celebrated with great pomp and show, attracting millions of devotees from all over the world.
Ratnagiri Buddhist Excavation
The Ratnagiri Buddhist Excavation is located in the Indian state of Odisha and is believed to have been a major center of Buddhism in ancient times. The site is home to several important Buddhist structures, including a large stupa and several monasteries. Archaeological excavations have revealed a wealth of artifacts, including statues, carvings, and inscriptions, which provide valuable insights into the history and culture of Buddhism in the region. The excavation site is open to visitors and is a popular destination for tourists and scholars interested in ancient Indian history and culture.
Chandrabhaga Beach
Chandrabhaga Beach is located in the state of Odisha in India. It is a secluded and serene beach known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. The beach is named after the Chandrabhaga River, which flows into the Bay of Bengal at this spot. The beach is surrounded by lush green forests and hills, and the water is clear and calm, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
According to local mythology, the beach is believed to have been a place of worship for the Sun God. Every year, people from all over the country come to the beach to take a dip in the sea during the annual Chandrabhaga Mela. It is said that taking a dip in the sea during this festival can cure various ailments and bring good luck.
Chandrabhaga Beach is also known for its beautiful sunrise and sunset views. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the beach, indulge in water sports like surfing and jet skiing, or simply relax and soak up the sun. The beach is easily accessible by road and is located about 3 km from the Konark Sun Temple, another popular tourist attraction in the area.
Barabati Fort
Barabati Fort is a 14th-century fort located in Cuttack, Odisha, India. It was built by the Ganga dynasty and later renovated by the Marathas. The fort is surrounded by a moat and has several gateways, temples, and underground passages. It was once a military stronghold and served as the residence of the kings of Cuttack. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and hosts cultural events and festivals.
Satkosia Gorge
Satkosia Gorge is a breathtaking gorge located in the state of Odisha in India. It is situated on the magnificent Mahanadi River and is surrounded by lush green forests and hills. The gorge is around 22 km long and stretches from the village of Tikarpada to Badamul.
Satkosia Gorge is a popular tourist destination and is known for its scenic beauty, wildlife, and adventure activities. Visitors can enjoy river rafting, camping, and trekking in the area. The gorge is also home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and several species of birds.
The best time to visit Satkosia Gorge is between October and March, as the weather during these months is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. Overall, Satkosia Gorge is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary
Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Puri district of the Indian state of Odisha. It covers an area of approximately 87 square kilometers and was established in 1984. The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including blackbuck, spotted deer, jungle cat, hyena, and various species of birds. The sanctuary is also situated along the Bay of Bengal coast and has a beautiful beach, which is a popular tourist destination. It is a great place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of Odisha.
Bhitarkanika National Park
Bhitarkanika National Park is a protected area in the Indian state of Odisha known for its mangrove forests, estuaries, and wildlife. It was established in 1975 and covers an area of 672 square kilometers. The park is home to a variety of species, including saltwater crocodiles, Indian python, king cobra, black ibis, darters, spotted deer, and wild boar. It is also a nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles. Visitors can take boat rides through the mangrove forests, go birdwatching, and explore the park’s many trails. The park is an important ecological hotspot and a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Pipili Village
Pipili is a small village located in Odisha, India. It is famous for its applique work, a traditional embroidery technique that involves stitching small pieces of cloth onto a larger fabric to create intricate designs. The village is also known for its annual fair, the Pipili Mela, which attracts visitors from all over the country. The fair is held in the month of January and showcases the village’s handicrafts, textiles, and local cuisine. Additionally, Pipili is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Gopalpur
Gopalpur Beach is a beautiful and serene beach located in the state of Odisha, India. It is known for its soft sand, clear waters, and peaceful surroundings. The beach is surrounded by coconut trees and offers a stunning view of the Bay of Bengal. Gopalpur Beach is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The beach also has a lighthouse that provides a panoramic view of the coastline. Additionally, Gopalpur Beach is known for its seafood, which is a must-try for visitors. Overall, Gopalpur Beach is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation.
Daringbadi
Daringbadi is a hill station located in the Kandhamal district of the Indian state of Odisha. It is known for its scenic beauty, cool climate, and natural attractions such as waterfalls, forests, and coffee plantations. The town is also known as the “Kashmir of Odisha” due to its similarity in climate and landscape to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Daringbadi include the Hill View Park, Doluri River, and the coffee and spice plantations. The town is also home to the Desia Kondh tribe, who are known for their unique culture and traditions.
Phulbani
Phulbani is a town located in the Kandhamal district of the Indian state of Odisha. It is situated in the Eastern Ghats and is known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Phulbani has a diverse population, with people from different communities living together in harmony. The town has several places of historical and religious significance, including temples, churches, and monuments. Agriculture is the main occupation of the people in and around Phulbani, and the region produces a variety of crops such as rice, maize, and pulses. The town is also home to several government offices, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.
Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary
Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected wildlife reserve located in the Indian state of Odisha. It covers an area of about 795 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is known for its population of Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, and several species of deer. It also has a large number of bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. The sanctuary is situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River and is surrounded by scenic hills and forests. Visitors can enjoy activities such as trekking, camping, and wildlife safaris.
Talasari beach
Talasari Beach is a beautiful and serene beach located in Balasore district of Odisha, India. The beach is known for its long stretches of golden sand and clear blue waters. It is surrounded by casuarina trees and offers a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset. The beach is relatively less crowded, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is also known for its delicious seafood. Overall, Talasari Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
Chandipur Beach
Chandipur Beach is located in the Balasore district of Odisha, India. What makes this beach unique is its disappearing act- twice a day, the sea recedes up to 5 kilometers, leaving behind a vast expanse of sand. The beach is also known for its cleanliness and clear water. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering various activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. The nearby Balasore railway station makes it easily accessible, and there are plenty of accommodation options available for visitors.
Deomali
Deomali is a town located in the Tirap district of the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh in India. It is situated at an elevation of around 915 meters above sea level and is known for its scenic beauty and lush green forests. The town has a population of around 7,000 people and is home to various tribes such as the Nocte, Tangsa, and Tutsa. Agriculture is the main occupation of the people, and the town is famous for its oranges, pineapples, and kiwis. Deomali is also a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers, with various trekking routes and waterfalls in the surrounding areas.
