Odisha (formerly Orissa) is a state where spirituality meets the sea, and culture meets the forest. While it’s often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours, Odisha is a hidden gem for travellers seeking temples, beaches, art, wildlife, and ancient tribal roots.
From UNESCO World Heritage sites to Asia’s largest coastal lagoon, here are the Top 10 must-visit places in Odisha for your next unforgettable journey.
⛩️ 1. Konark – The Sun Temple Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Konark Sun Temple is Odisha’s most iconic structure.
Built in the 13th century, shaped like a chariot with 24 intricately carved wheels
Depicts ancient engineering, mythology, and astronomy
Nearby Chandrabhaga Beach offers serene sunsets
📸 A must-visit for history buffs, photographers, and architecture lovers.
🌊 2. Puri – The Spiritual Coastal Hub
One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, Puri offers both devotion and beach vibes.
Visit the Jagannath Temple (home of the famous Rath Yatra)
Relax at Puri Beach or try surfing
Explore the nearby Raghurajpur Artist Village for traditional Pattachitra paintings
🕉️ Perfect mix of spirituality and coastal retreat.
🐬 3. Chilika Lake – Asia’s Largest Brackish Water Lagoon
A paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Spot Irrawaddy dolphins at Satapada
Over 160 species of migratory birds (especially Nov–Feb)
Boat rides, island hopping, and bird sanctuaries
🌅 Best visited in winter months.
🏯 4. Bhubaneswar – The Temple City of India
Odisha’s capital is home to over 700 ancient temples, blending spirituality and urban energy.
Must-visit: Lingaraj Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, Rajarani Temple
Explore Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves – ancient Jain rock-cut shelters
Modern cafes, museums, and street food scenes await
🏙️ An ideal starting point for exploring Odisha.
⛰️ 5. Koraput – Tribal Hills and Valleys
Untouched and soul-stirring, Koraput showcases tribal Odisha at its best.
Visit tribal markets, interact with the Bonda and Paroja tribes
Enjoy eco-tourism at Deomali Hills (the highest point in Odisha)
Explore Gupteshwar Caves and Kolab Dam
🧳 Perfect for offbeat, cultural, and responsible travellers.
🐘 6. Simlipal National Park – Wild and Wonderful
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Simlipal is home to:
Tigers, elephants, leopards, and deer
Beautiful waterfalls like Barehipani and Joranda
Dense forests and rare orchids
🦁 Open from November to mid-June. Prior permits required.
🌳 7. Daringbadi – The Kashmir of Odisha
A hill station in Kandhamal district, famous for its cool climate and coffee plantations.
Pine forests, misty valleys, and tribal villages
Best time: Winter (Dec–Feb) when it may even experience light frost
Known for turmeric farming and tribal crafts
🌬️ Ideal for couples and nature lovers.
🐅 8. Satkosia Tiger Reserve – River & Forest in Harmony
Nestled along the Mahanadi River gorge, Satkosia offers:
Scenic boat rides
Chances to spot tigers, crocodiles, and hornbills
River-side camps and eco-stays
🚣♂️ Adventure meets conservation here.
🧘♀️ 9. Jirang – Odisha’s Little Tibet
A peaceful Tibetan settlement near the Gajapati district.
Explore the stunning Padmasambhava Mahavihara Monastery
Serene surroundings are perfect for meditation and reflection
Taste authentic Tibetan food
🕊️ A slice of the Himalayas in Eastern India.
🖼️ 10. Raghurajpur – The Heritage Craft Village
A vibrant village where every home is a studio of artists.
Famous for Pattachitra (palm leaf) paintings
Learn from local artists, buy directly
Traditional Gotipua dance performances (predecessor of Odissi dance)
🎨 Only 14 km from Puri – great for cultural day trips.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Odisha:
| Season | Months | Travel Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Oct – Feb | Best for temples, festivals, wildlife |
| Summer | Mar – May | Hot but good for hills (Daringbadi) |
| Monsoon | Jun – Sep | Lush landscapes, but heavy rainfall |
✈️ How to Reach Odisha:
By Air: Bhubaneswar (BBI) is the main airport, well-connected to metro cities
By Train: Major stations – Bhubaneswar, Puri, Cuttack, Sambalpur
By Road: National Highways connect Odisha to West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand
🧳 Travel Tips:
Respect local traditions when visiting temples (no leather, photography restrictions)
Try local foods: dalma, chhena poda, chakuli pitha
Book wildlife safaris in advance during peak seasons
Stay in eco-retreats for beach or nature-based experiences
✨ Final Thoughts: Odisha – A Journey of Soul, Soil, and Spirit
Odisha is not just a travel destination—it’s a spiritual experience, a canvas of living traditions, and a gateway to nature’s best-kept secrets.
“Come for the temples, stay for the warmth of the people and stories whispered by the sea and the hills.”
From the roar of waves at Puri to the silent mystique of tribal villages, Odisha offers something magical for every traveller.
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