Introduction
Odisha is a state in eastern India known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse wildlife. It is home to some of the most iconic temples in India, such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Sun Temple in Konark, and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. Odisha also has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches, such as the Puri Beach, the Chandipur Beach, and the Konark Beach. Additionally, Odisha is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, the Bhitarkanika National Park, and the Satkosia Tiger Reserve.
What is Odisha?
Odisha is an Indian state located in Eastern India. It is the 8th-largest state by area, and the 11th-largest by population, with over 41 million inhabitants. The state also has the third-largest population of Scheduled Tribes in India. It neighbours the states of Jharkhand and West Bengal to the north, Chhattisgarh to the west, and Andhra Pradesh to the south. Odisha has a coastline of 485 kilometres (301 mi) along the Bay of Bengal in Indian Ocean. The region is also known as Utkala and is mentioned by this name in India’s national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana”. The language of Odisha is Odia, which is one of the Classical Languages of India.
Odisha is a state with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to some of the most iconic temples in India, such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Sun Temple in Konark, and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. Odisha is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as the Puri Beach, the Chandipur Beach, and the Konark Beach. Additionally, Odisha is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, the Bhitarkanika National Park, and the Satkosia Tiger Reserve.
Odisha is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international tourists. The state offers a variety of tourist attractions, including temples, beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, and other cultural attractions.
Why visit Odisha?
There are many reasons to visit Odisha, including:
- Rich cultural heritage: Odisha is home to some of the most iconic temples in India, such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Sun Temple in Konark, and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. The state also has a number of other cultural attractions, such as the Dhauli Hill (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Chilika Lake (the largest brackish water lake in Asia), and the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves.
- Natural beauty: Odisha is a state with stunning natural beauty. It has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches, such as the Puri Beach, the Chandipur Beach, and the Konark Beach. Additionally, Odisha is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, the Bhitarkanika National Park, and the Satkosia Tiger Reserve.
- Diverse wildlife: Odisha is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinos, crocodiles, and birds. Visitors can go on wildlife safaris in the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to see these animals in their natural habitat.
- Unique culture: Odisha has a unique culture that is different from other parts of India. The state has its own language, Odia, and its own unique cuisine. Visitors can experience the Odia culture by visiting the villages, attending the festivals, and trying the local food.
- Affordable travel: Odisha is a relatively affordable travel destination. The state has a good range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Additionally, the food and transportation costs in Odisha are relatively low.
Overall, Odisha is a great place to visit for anyone who is interested in history, culture, nature, wildlife, and unique experiences.
How to get to Odisha
There are several ways to get to Odisha, depending on your starting point.
By air: Odisha has four airports: Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, Veer Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda, Rourkela Airport, and Angul Airport. There are direct flights to Bhubaneswar from major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore. There are also direct flights to Jharsuguda from Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
By train: Odisha has a well-connected rail network. There are regular trains to Odisha from all major cities in India. The main railway stations in Odisha are Bhubaneswar Railway Station, Puri Railway Station, and Cuttack Railway Station.
By bus: Odisha also has a good network of roads. There are regular buses to Odisha from all major cities in India. The main bus terminals in Odisha are Baramunda Bus Stand in Bhubaneswar, Puri Bus Stand, and Cuttack Bus Stand.
By car: If you are planning to drive to Odisha, the best route is to take the National Highway 16. This highway connects Bhubaneswar to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai.
Once you arrive in Odisha, you can get around by taxi, bus, or train. Taxis are available at all major airports and railway stations. Buses are the cheapest mode of transportation in Odisha, but they can be crowded, especially during peak season. Trains are a good option for traveling between major cities in Odisha.
Here are some additional tips for getting to Odisha:
- If you are traveling by air, book your tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
- If you are traveling by train, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season or on a long-distance train.
- If you are traveling by bus, be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.
- If you are driving to Odisha, be sure to check the road conditions before you go.
- Odisha has a hot climate, so be sure to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Odisha is a relatively safe state to travel in, but it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
Where to stay in Odisha
There are a variety of places to stay in Odisha, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:
- Budget: If you are on a tight budget, there are a number of budget guesthouses and hostels available throughout Odisha. Some popular budget guesthouses include:
- Hotel Hindustan International in Bhubaneswar: This hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.
- Hotel Mayfair Palms in Puri: This hotel is located near the beach and offers basic but comfortable rooms at a low price.
- Hotel Konark Continental in Konark: This hotel is located near the Sun Temple and offers basic but comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.
- Mid-range: If you are looking for a more comfortable place to stay, there are a number of mid-range hotels available throughout Odisha. Some popular mid-range hotels include:
- Mayfair Lagoon in Bhubaneswar: This hotel is located on a lake and offers spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
- The Gateway Hotel Beach Road Puri in Puri: This hotel is located on the beach and offers spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
- The Sun Temple Palace in Konark: This hotel is located near the Sun Temple and offers spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
- Luxury: If you are looking for a luxurious place to stay, there are a number of luxury hotels available throughout Odisha. Some popular luxury hotels include:
- The Lalit Great Eastern Bhubaneswar in Bhubaneswar: This hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with all the modern amenities.
- The Puri Beach Hotel in Puri: This hotel is located on the beach and offers luxurious rooms and suites with all the modern amenities.
- The Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa in Bhubaneswar: This resort is located on a hilltop and offers luxurious rooms and suites with all the modern amenities.
When choosing a place to stay in Odisha, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Budget: How much money are you willing to spend on accommodation?
- Location: Do you want to stay in a city, near a beach, or near a national park?
- Amenities: What kind of amenities are important to you, such as a swimming pool, fitness center, or spa?
- Reviews: Read online reviews of different hotels and resorts before you book.
What to eat in Odisha
Odisha has a rich and diverse cuisine that is influenced by its coastal location, its proximity to neighboring states, and its tribal heritage. Some of the most popular dishes in Odisha include:
- Pakhala Bhata: Pakhala Bhata is a fermented rice dish that is eaten with a variety of accompaniments, such as fried fish, vegetables, and chutney. It is a popular dish during the summer months, as it is cooling and refreshing.
- Dalma: Dalma is a lentil-based dish that is cooked with vegetables and spices. It is a popular dish for both lunch and dinner.
- Santula: Santula is a sour curry that is made with papaya, eggplant, and tomatoes. It is a popular dish for both lunch and dinner.
- Macha Ghanta: Macha Ghanta is a fish curry that is made with mustard oil and spices. It is a popular dish for both lunch and dinner.
- Chhena Poda: Chhena Poda is a cheesecake-like dessert that is made with cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom. It is a popular dessert for both special occasions and everyday consumption.
- Rasabali: Rasabali is a sweet dish that is made with cheese curds, sugar, and spices. It is a popular dessert for both special occasions and everyday consumption.
In addition to these popular dishes, Odisha also has a variety of other dishes that are worth trying, such as:
- Khichdi: Khichdi is a dish made with rice and lentils that is cooked with vegetables and spices. It is a popular dish for both lunch and dinner.
- Pitha: Pitha is a general term for a variety of pancakes and fritters that are made with rice flour, lentils, and other ingredients. Pithas are a popular breakfast food in Odisha.
- Chakuli Pitha: Chakuli Pitha is a type of pancake that is made with rice flour, lentils, and spices. It is a popular breakfast food in Odisha.
- Rasagola: Rasagola is a sweet dish that is made with cheese curds, sugar, and saffron. It is a popular dessert for both special occasions and everyday consumption.
When eating in Odisha, it is important to be aware of the local customs and traditions. For example, it is not considered polite to eat with your left hand, as it is considered to be unclean. Additionally, it is important to remove your shoes before entering a temple or a private home.
Things to do in Odisha
Odisha is a state in eastern India that is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse wildlife. There are many things to do in Odisha, including:
- Visit the temples: Odisha is home to some of the most iconic temples in India, such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Sun Temple in Konark, and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. These temples are architectural marvels and are worth a visit for their religious and cultural significance.
- Relax on the beaches: Odisha has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches in Odisha include the Puri Beach, the Chandipur Beach, and the Konark Beach. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
- Go on a wildlife safari: Odisha is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, which offer visitors a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinos, crocodiles, and birds. Some of the most popular national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha include the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, the Bhitarkanika National Park, and the Satkosia Tiger Reserve.
- Visit the Chilika Lake: Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lake in Asia and is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife. Visitors can take boat rides on the lake and visit the nearby villages.
- Attend a festival: Odisha is home to a number of festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals in Odisha include the Rath Yatra in Puri, the Konark Dance Festival, and the Dussehra Festival. These festivals are a great way to experience the Odia culture.
In addition to these activities, there are many other things to do in Odisha, such as visiting the museums, shopping for handicrafts, and trying the local cuisine.
When planning your trip to Odisha, be sure to consider the following factors:
- Time of year: The best time to visit Odisha is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant.
- Budget: Odisha is a relatively affordable state to visit, but it is important to factor in the cost of accommodation, transportation, and activities.
- Interests: Odisha has something to offer everyone, so it is important to consider your interests when planning your trip. If you are interested in history and culture, you may want to visit the temples and museums. If you are interested in nature and wildlife, you may want to go on a wildlife safari or visit the Chilika Lake. And if you are interested in festivals, you may want to plan your trip around one of the many festivals that are celebrated in Odisha throughout the year.
Festivals in Odisha
Odisha is a state in eastern India that is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse festivals. Some of the most popular festivals in Odisha include:
- Rath Yatra: Rath Yatra is a nine-day Hindu festival that is celebrated in Puri. The festival is known for the chariots that carry the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Subhadra Devi through the streets of Puri.
- Konark Dance Festival: Konark Dance Festival is a seven-day dance festival that is held at the Sun Temple in Konark. The festival features performances by some of the best dancers in India.
- Dussehra: Dussehra is a ten-day Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. The festival is celebrated throughout Odisha, but the most popular celebrations take place in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.
- Durga Puja: Durga Puja is a five-day Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. The festival is celebrated throughout Odisha, but the most popular celebrations take place in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
- Gajalaxmi Puja: Gajalaxmi Puja is a one-day Hindu festival that is celebrated on the day of Diwali. The festival is dedicated to the goddess Gajalaxmi, who is the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
- Nuakhai: Nuakhai is a two-day festival that is celebrated by the farmers of Odisha. The festival marks the beginning of the new rice harvest.
- Makar Mela: Makar Mela is a two-day festival that is celebrated on the day of Makar Sankranti. The festival is held at the confluence of the Mahanadi River and the Bay of Bengal at Puri.
These are just a few of the many festivals that are celebrated in Odisha throughout the year. If you are planning a trip to Odisha, be sure to check the calendar to see if any festivals are happening during your visit. Festivals are a great way to experience the Odia culture and meet the local people.
Different types of tourism in Odisha
Odisha is a state in eastern India that is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse wildlife. It is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international tourists. Odisha offers a variety of types of tourism, including:
- Cultural tourism: Odisha is home to some of the most iconic temples in India, such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Sun Temple in Konark, and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. The state also has a number of other cultural attractions, such as the Dhauli Hill (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Chilika Lake (the largest brackish water lake in Asia), and the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves.
- Ecotourism: Odisha is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, the Bhitarkanika National Park, and the Satkosia Tiger Reserve. These parks offer visitors a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinos, crocodiles, and birds.
- Adventure tourism: Odisha offers a variety of adventure tourism activities, such as trekking, rafting, and kayaking. The state is also home to a number of waterfalls, which are popular for swimming and picnicking.
- Beach tourism: Odisha has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches in Odisha include the Puri Beach, the Chandipur Beach, and the Konark Beach. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
- Medical tourism: Odisha is a popular destination for medical tourism. The state has a number of world-class hospitals and medical facilities.
In addition to these types of tourism, Odisha also offers a variety of other activities for visitors, such as shopping for handicrafts, trying the local cuisine, and attending festivals.
Odisha is a great place to visit for anyone who is interested in history, culture, nature, wildlife, and adventure. The state has something to offer everyone, regardless of their budget or interests.
List of top tourist places in Odisha
Here is a list of the top tourist places in Odisha:
- Jagannath Temple, Puri
- Sun Temple, Konark
- Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar
- Chilika Lake
- Dhauli Hill
- Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
- Simlipal Tiger Reserve
- Bhitarkanika National Park
- Satkosia Tiger Reserve
- Puri Beach
- Chandipur Beach
- Konark Beach
These are just a few of the many tourist places in Odisha. The state has a lot to offer visitors, including temples, beaches, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and hill stations.
PDF link to a comprehensive list of tourist places in Odisha
Temples
Odisha is known as the “Land of Temples” for a reason. It is home to over 50,000 temples, many of which are centuries old. Some of the most popular temples in Odisha include:
- Jagannath Temple in Puri
- Sun Temple in Konark
- Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar
- Ananta Vasudeva Temple in Bhubaneswar
- Parasurameswar Temple in Bhubaneswar
- Mukteswar Temple in Bhubaneswar
- Rajarani Temple in Bhubaneswar
- Vaital Deul in Bhubaneswar
- Konark Beach Temple
- Dhauli Hill
- Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
Beaches
Odisha has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches in Odisha include:
- Puri Beach
- Chandipur Beach
- Konark Beach
- Gopalpur Beach
- Chandrabhaga Beach
- Astarang Beach
- Paradeep Beach
- Balaramgadi Beach
- Rushikulya Beach
- Aryapalli Beach
- Kakatpur Beach
Wildlife
Odisha is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, which offer visitors a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, rhinos, crocodiles, and birds. Some of the most popular national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha include:
- Simlipal Tiger Reserve
- Bhitarkanika National Park
- Satkosia Tiger Reserve
- Chilika Lake Wildlife Sanctuary
- Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary
- Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary
Hill stations
Odisha has a few hill stations, which offer visitors a welcome respite from the heat of the plains. Some of the most popular hill stations in Odisha include:
- Daringbadi
- Khandagiri
- Harishankar
- Nrusinghanath
- Belkhandi
- Phulabani
Other attractions
Odisha also has a number of other attractions, such as:
- Dhauli Hill (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Chilika Lake (the largest brackish water lake in Asia)
- Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
- Puri Rath Yatra (one of the largest religious festivals in the world)
- Konark Dance Festival
- Dussehra Festival
Conclusion
Odisha is a diverse state with something to offer everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or wildlife, you are sure to find something to your liking in Odisha. To learn more about the tourist places in Odisha, please download the PDF attached to this article.
If you are planning a trip to Odisha, be sure to do some research to decide which tourist places you want to visit. You can also consult with a travel agent to get help planning your trip.
