Odisha, formerly called Orissa, is an eastern state in India, located along the Bay of Bengal. The state is known for its tribal cultures and ancient Hindu temples. Bhubaneswar, the capital, has hundreds of temples, including the beautifully carved Mukteshvara Temple. The Lingaraj Temple, built in the 11th century, is part of a large temple complex surrounding the sacred Bindusagar Lake. The Odisha State Museum highlights the region’s history and natural environment. Puri is famous for the 12th-century Jagannath Temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, also known as the Lord of the Universe.
Further along the coast, the ruins of the Sun Temple in Konark, dating back to the 13th century, showcase the unique Kalinga architectural style. North of Puri, the village of Raghurajpur is known for its traditional Oriya paintings and tribal handicrafts. Odisha is also famous for its beaches in Puri, Balighai, and other locations. The state has several natural attractions, such as the mangroves of Bhitarkanika National Park, the bird sanctuary at Chilika Lake, and the tiger reserve and waterfalls in Simlipal National Park.
places to visit in Odisha
Konark Sun Temple
The Konark Sun Temple, also known as the Black Pagoda, is a 13th-century temple dedicated to the Sun God. Located in Konark, Odisha, this temple is famous for its intricate architecture and grand design. It is built in the shape of a chariot with twelve giant wheels, drawn by seven horses. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the finest examples of Kalinga architecture. The temple’s design symbolizes the movement of the sun across the sky. It was once an important pilgrimage site but is now in ruins, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts from all over the world.
Nandankanan Zoological Park
Nandankanan Zoological Park, located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, covers an area of 400 hectares. Established in 1960, it opened to the public in 1979. The park is known for its rich biodiversity, including several species of birds, animals, and reptiles. It is home to rare species such as the white tiger and the Indian lion. Nandankanan also features a botanical garden and a lake. In 2009, it became the first zoo in India to join the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, emphasizing its role in animal conservation and education.
Lingaraja Temple
Lingaraja Temple is one of the oldest and most significant temples in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a prime example of Kalinga architecture. The temple’s towering spire reaches a height of 55 meters and is surrounded by numerous smaller shrines. Built in the 11th century, it attracts thousands of devotees each year, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri. The temple is an important center of pilgrimage and worship, with its serene surroundings offering a spiritual experience. It is considered an architectural marvel, reflecting the cultural heritage of Odisha.
Gundicha Temple
Gundicha Temple, located in Puri, Odisha, is an important Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath. It holds special significance during the annual Rath Yatra, where the idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are brought to this temple. The temple’s design reflects the architectural style of the Jagannath Temple. Every year, millions of devotees visit Gundicha Temple to participate in the vibrant procession. The temple is a place of devotion and spirituality, and it is believed to be the residence of the Goddess Gundicha, the aunt of Lord Jagannath.
Khandadhar Falls
Khandadhar Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Sundergarh district of Odisha, India. It is the 12th highest waterfall in the country, with a height of approximately 244 meters. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Located near the Nandapani area in Bonaigarh, Khandadhar Falls is easily accessible from the nearby towns and offers a peaceful escape into nature. The sight and sound of the cascading water amidst the forest make it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
Dhabaleswar Temple
Dhabaleswar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located on a small island in the Mahanadi River, around 27 kilometers from Cuttack. This temple is an important religious site for devotees, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri. The island is known for its picturesque views and tranquil surroundings, making it a popular spot for weekend getaways. Visitors can reach the temple by crossing a bridge, which offers scenic views of the river. The temple is also surrounded by dense forests, adding to its spiritual atmosphere and making it a peaceful retreat for devotees.
Duduma Waterfall
Duduma Waterfall, located on the border of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, is a majestic waterfall with a height of 175 meters. The waterfall is formed by the Machkund River and is surrounded by dense forests, creating a scenic and peaceful environment. It is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the region. The falls are not only a popular tourist destination but also hold religious significance for the local communities. The surrounding area is perfect for trekking and nature walks, offering a chance to explore the region’s rich biodiversity.
Leaning Temple of Huma
The Leaning Temple of Huma, located in the village of Huma near Sambalpur, Odisha, is famous for its unique leaning structure. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of only two leaning temples in the world. Situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River, the temple’s unusual tilt has intrigued visitors for centuries. Despite its lean, the temple remains intact and attracts many pilgrims and tourists. The surrounding landscape, with its lush greenery and river views, makes it a serene and beautiful place to visit.
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves are ancient rock-cut caves located near Bhubaneswar, Odisha. These caves, created by Jain monks, are of historical, religious, and archaeological importance. Udayagiri means “sunrise hill” and is home to a number of caves, many of which have intricate carvings and inscriptions. Khandagiri, meaning “broken hill,” is located nearby and has smaller caves. These caves date back to the 2nd century BCE and were used as living quarters by Jain monks. They are significant for understanding the history of Jainism in the region.
Panchalingeshwar Temple
Panchalingeshwar Temple is situated in the Balasore district of Odisha, atop a hill near Nilagiri. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for housing five Shivalingas, which are worshipped by the devotees. The temple is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the landscape. It is a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists seeking peace and spiritual solace. The temple’s location on a hill provides a scenic backdrop, making it a great place for nature walks and exploration.
Top destinations in Odisha
Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, located in Odisha, is one of the oldest cities in India. The city is famous for its many ancient temples, especially around Bindu Sagar Lake. The Lingaraja Temple, built in the 11th century, is one of the key landmarks. The Rajarani Temple is known for its beautiful carvings, and the Odisha State Museum displays a rich collection of art and history. Bhubaneswar is also a hub for cultural heritage in Odisha.
Cuttack
Cuttack is a historic city in Odisha, situated between the Mahanadi and Kathajodi rivers. It is known for the Barabati Fort, which was once home to the Eastern Ganga dynasty. The Shahi Mosque inside the fort is famous for its three white domes. The Maa Cuttack Chandi Temple is an important religious site. Cuttack’s strategic location and medieval architecture make it a significant cultural center.
Sambalpur
Sambalpur is one of the largest cities in the western part of Odisha. It serves as the headquarters for the Northern Revenue Division and Mahanadi Coalfield Limited. The city is also known for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage. Sambalpur is a key business hub in the state and is renowned for the Sambalpuri saree, a traditional handwoven fabric. The city is surrounded by scenic landscapes, adding to its charm.
Puri
Puri is a coastal city in Odisha, located on the Bay of Bengal. It is well-known for the 12th-century Jagannath Temple, one of the holiest places for Hindus. Puri is famous for its annual Rath Yatra, where massive chariots carry the idols of Lord Jagannath. The city is a popular beach destination and offers a tranquil atmosphere. It is also an important center for cultural and religious tourism.
Rourkela
Rourkela is a planned industrial city in northern Odisha, known for the Rourkela Steel Plant, one of India’s largest steel factories. It is the third-largest city in the state and is surrounded by hills and rivers. Rourkela is also referred to as Ispat Nagar, due to its strong connection to the steel industry. The city has a well-developed infrastructure and is an important economic center for the region.
Konark
Konark is a town located on the Bay of Bengal, known for the 13th-century Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple, also called the Black Pagoda, was built in black granite and is renowned for its architectural beauty. Though the temple is in ruins, it remains a major tourist attraction. Konark is also home to the annual Konark Dance Festival, celebrating classical dance forms of India. The town’s historical significance and cultural festivals make it a vibrant destination.
Barbil
Barbil is a town in Odisha’s Kendujhar district, located in the iron ore-rich region. The area around Barbil has the largest deposits of iron and manganese ore in the world, making it an important industrial hub. The town is also known for its mining operations. Barbil’s proximity to natural resources has led to its growth as a key commercial center in the state. Its surrounding landscapes are marked by hills and forests, contributing to its scenic beauty.
Jeypore
Jeypore, located in southern Odisha, is known for its rich natural beauty. Surrounded by the Eastern Ghats, the town is famous for its waterfalls and dense forests. It is a significant business center in the region and is often referred to as the “city of victory.” The town is close to the Araku Hills, known for their scenic views. Jeypore is also a gateway to explore the tribal cultures and traditions of Odisha.
Bargarh
Bargarh is a district in Odisha, located in the eastern part of India. The city of Bargarh is the district headquarters and is known for its cultural heritage. The district was formed in 1993, carved out of the Sambalpur district. Bargarh is famous for its agricultural activities, particularly paddy cultivation. The city also hosts the famous Bargarh Dhanu Yatra, an annual theatre festival based on the mythological story of Lord Krishna.
Paradeep
Paradip, located in the Jagatsinghpur district of Odisha, is a major seaport town. It plays a crucial role in India’s maritime trade and is one of the busiest ports on the east coast. The town is known for its large port infrastructure and industrial developments. Paradip also has a growing economy driven by its shipping industry. The town is an important hub for the transportation of goods, particularly petroleum and chemicals.
Best Time To Visit Odisha
The ideal time to visit Odisha is from October to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies and a slight chill in the air. This is the best time to explore the state’s attractions, including its beaches and wildlife. Although June and July are hot and humid, they are still a great time to visit if you’re interested in experiencing the famous Chariot Festival.
| Month | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| June – July | Hot and humid | Chariot Festival |
| October – March | Pleasant and cool | Exploring beaches, wildlife, and general sightseeing |
