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Dancing Girl of Mohenjo-daro - currently in National Museum, Delhi

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Places To Visit in Odisha

Odisha is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering an eclectic mix of heritage sites, lush landscapes, and serene beaches. From ancient temples to tranquil lakes, Odisha has something for every traveler. In this guide, we explore the must-visit places in Odisha that promise breathtaking experiences and a deep dive into the state’s fascinating history and culture.
Wiki Link: Places to Visit in Odisha

A sacred coastal city known for the grand Jagannath Temple and its vibrant Rath Yatra festival.

Puri 

A sacred coastal town famous for the 12th-century Jagannath Temple, pristine beaches, and the spectacular Rath Yatra festival where giant chariots roll through the streets.

Home to the 13th-century Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped like a colossal chariot.

Konark

 Home to the UNESCO-listed Sun Temple, shaped like a celestial chariot.

A birdwatcher's paradise and dolphin haven, famous for migratory birds and scenic boat rides.

Chilika Lake

Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, ideal for dolphin spotting and birdwatching.

A quaint village where every home is an artist's studio, known for Pattachitra paintings and traditional crafts.

Raghurajpur

A heritage crafts village known for Pattachitra paintings and Gotipua dance.

A perfect blend of ancient temples, modern architecture, and vibrant city life—Odisha’s capital with spiritual charm.

Bhubaneswar

Odisha’s capital blends ancient temples with modern vibes. The 11th-century Lingaraj Temple is a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture. Explore Udayagiri-Khandagiri Caves, rock-cut Jain monasteries with panoramic views. Nandankanan Zoo houses rare white tigers and a botanical garden. The Ekamra Haat market is perfect for handicrafts.

A biosphere reserve rich in wildlife, waterfalls, and forest trails—home to tigers, elephants, and rare orchids.

Simlipal National Park

A tiger reserve with waterfalls, dense forests, and tribal villages.

A unique mangrove ecosystem teeming with saltwater crocodiles, birds, and serene backwaters.

Bhitarkanika National Park

Mangrove forests and saltwater crocodiles.

Historic site of the Kalinga War, marked by Ashokan edicts and a Shanti Stupa promoting peace.

Dhauli

Peace Pagoda and the site of Emperor Ashoka’s transformation after the Kalinga War.

A quiet coastal town ideal for beach walks, seafood, and relaxed vacations along the Bay of Bengal.

Gopalpur-on-Sea

This tranquil beach destination retains its old-world charm with remnants of British-era bungalows and a picturesque lighthouse. The golden sandy beach offers peaceful sunrise views and gentle waves perfect for swimming. Once a bustling maritime port, it now attracts visitors seeking quiet seaside relaxation. Don’t miss fresh seafood at beachside shacks and the annual Beach Festival. Nearby attractions include the historic Tampara Lake and the vibrant Berhampur city.

A monumental engineering feat spanning the Mahanadi River, offering scenic views and tranquil waters.

Hirakud Dam

Stretching an impressive 27 km across the Mahanadi River, this engineering marvel is India’s longest earthen dam. The dam offers breathtaking sunset views over the vast reservoir, best enjoyed from Gandhi Minar viewpoint. It serves as a crucial flood control system while supporting irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. Birdwatchers flock here to spot migratory birds during winter months. The nearby Deer Park and water sports facilities make it a perfect day-trip destination from Sambalpur.

A dramatic gorge on the Mahanadi, known for its lush forest, boating, and diverse wildlife including crocodiles.

Satkosia Gorge

 A dramatic canyon where the Mahanadi River cuts through Eastern Ghats, creating breathtaking cliffs. Ideal for river rafting, trekking, and wildlife spotting (tigers, crocodiles). The Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary here is a lesser-known eco-retreat.

The highest peak in the state, offering panoramic views, cool climate, and adventure for nature lovers.

Deomali Hill

 Odisha’s highest peak (1,672m) with lush greenery and trekking trails.

A peaceful hill retreat famous for its natural hot sulfur springs and tribal culture.

Taptapani

A hot spring amidst forests, known for healing properties.

A cultural hub known for Chhau dance and gateway to Simlipal National Park.

Baripada (Mayurbhanj)

Gateway to Simlipal and known for Chhau dance.

A unique beach where the sea recedes up to 5 km during low tide, allowing you to literally walk into the sea.

Chandipur Beach

The “Vanishing Sea” beach where tides recede up to 5 km daily, leaving behind seashells and sand patterns. Walk on the seabed at low tide or collect rare conch shells. The Defence Research Lab nearby adds a quirky touch.

A sacred shrine nestled in the hills, dedicated to Goddess Tarini, a revered deity of tribal Odisha.

Maa Tarini Temple (Kendujhar)

A sacred Shakti Peetha surrounded by forests.

A historical site believed to be the hiding place of the Lord Jagannath idols during invasions.

Patali Srikhetra (Jajpur)

A mystical temple complex linked to Hindu mythology.

A cool hill station in Kandhamal district, known for pine forests, valleys, coffee plantations, and snowfall in winters.

Daringbadi

The “Kashmir of Odisha” with coffee plantations and cool weather.

An ancient and lesser-known archaeological site offering insights into Odisha’s rich historical layers.

Bhitargarh (Balangir)

Ruins of a 9th-century fort lost in time.

A scenic hill town inhabited by the Kandha tribe, known for its untouched nature and deep-rooted traditions.

Belghar (Kandhamal)

A remote tribal village in Eastern Ghats, home to the Kutia Kondh tribe. Trek to Duduma Waterfall, one of Odisha’s highest. The weekly haat (market) sells organic honey and tribal handicrafts.