Odisha, an eastern Indian state on the Bay of Bengal, is a land of ancient temples, vibrant tribal culture, serene beaches, and lush green landscapes. From historic architecture to pristine nature escapes, this underrated destination offers travelers a rich blend of heritage, spirituality, and natural beauty.
1. Puri
Why visit: A sacred pilgrimage city known for the revered Jagannath Temple and its famous Rath Yatra festival.
Highlights: – Jagannath Temple – Puri Beach – Annual Rath Yatra procession – Local handicrafts and markets
Timing: October to March for pleasant weather
Entry: Temple entry free, special darshan passes from ₹100 onward
Photo by Dilip Poddar on Unsplash
2. Konark Sun Temple
Why visit: An architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site symbolizing Odisha’s ancient grandeur.
Highlights: – 13th-century chariot-shaped temple – Intricate stone carvings – Konark Dance Festival – Scenic beach nearby
Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹40 for Indians, ₹600 for foreign tourists
Photo by Ashish Kumar Senapati on Unsplash
3. Chilika Lake
Why visit: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Highlights: – Irrawaddy dolphins spotting – Migratory birds at Nalabana Island – Boat rides – Kalijai Temple on an island
Timing: November to February for birdwatching
Entry: Boat ride charges from ₹150 per person
Photo by Neeraj Pramanik on Unsplash
4. Bhubaneswar
Why visit: The capital city, known as the ‘Temple City of India,’ boasts a rich cultural and historical legacy.
Highlights: – Lingaraj Temple – Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves – Odisha State Museum – Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens
Timing: October to March
Entry: Most temples free, caves ₹25 for Indians
Photo by Dilip Poddar on Unsplash
5. Similipal National Park
Why visit: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for its dense forests, waterfalls, and tiger reserve.
Highlights: – Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls – Tiger and elephant sightings – Nature trails – Tribal villages nearby
Timing: November to mid-June (closed during monsoon)
Entry: ₹100 per vehicle, ₹50 per person
Photo by Subhadeep Dishant on Unsplash
6. Raghurajpur Heritage Village
Why visit: A quaint artists' village renowned for its traditional Pattachitra paintings and crafts.
Highlights: – Live art demonstrations – Pattachitra paintings – Palm leaf engravings – Gotipua dance performances
Timing: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free (artwork purchase optional)
7. Daringbadi
Why visit: Known as the ‘Kashmir of Odisha,’ this hill station offers cool climate and scenic vistas.
Highlights: – Coffee plantations – Pine forests – Hill View Park – Waterfalls like Putudi and Lovers’ Point
Timing: October to March
Entry: Free, sightseeing transport extra
Photo by Pratim Banerjee on Unsplash
8. Chandipur Beach
Why visit: A unique beach where the sea recedes up to 5 km during low tide, revealing the seabed.
Highlights: – Vanishing sea phenomenon – Beachside eateries – Sunrise views – Horseshoe crab spotting
Timing: October to March
Entry: Free
Photo by Sam Barren on Unsplash
9. Satkosia Tiger Reserve
Why visit: A lush wildlife sanctuary nestled along the Mahanadi River gorge, perfect for eco-tourism.
Highlights: – Boat rides on Mahanadi – Crocodile conservation center – Jungle safaris – Overnight eco-camps
Timing: November to June
Entry: ₹20 per person, boat ride extra
10. Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves
Why visit: Ancient rock-cut caves with intricate carvings and inscriptions dating back to the 2nd century BCE.
Highlights: – Historical Jain monastic dwellings – Ranigumpha double-storied cave – City views from the hilltop
Timing: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners
Feature Image:- Photo by Pratim Banerjee on Unsplash
