Odisha is a land of timeless charm and diverse experiences. From iconic landmarks like the Sun Temple and the Jagannath Temple to scenic beaches, ancient caves, and lush wildlife sanctuaries, the state offers an array of attractions that promise to make your trip truly unforgettable. So, what’s holding you back? Book your package at Veena World and explore all the famous tourist attractions of Odisha.
Odisha, formally known as Orissa, is a vibrant and culturally rich state in eastern India. Dotted with breathtaking beaches, centuries-old temples, ancient caves, and fascinating museums, there is no shortage of tourist attractions in Odisha. The state is blessed with varied landscapes, filled with a range of hills, rivers, beaches and seas, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers. Its forest is home to several wildlife, such as Tigers, Elephants, Black Panthers, macaques, bears, gharials, Chital and the Sambar Deer.
The architecture of Odisha is another reason to fall in love with the state, featuring many historical structures adorned with intricate carvings, like the iconic Sun Temple of Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, visit this enchanting state and come back with a bag full of memories that will remain etched in your mind for a lifetime.
What are the Best Tourist Attractions in Odisha?
Here are the top attractions in Orissa that you must add to your itinerary:
- Bhubaneswar
- Puri
- Konark
- Cuttack
- Chandipur
- Simlipal National Park
- Rayagada
- Sambalpur
- Gopalpur
- Daringbadi
- Talasari Beach
- Pipli
Bhubaneswar: The Temple City of India
Bhubaneshwar is a famous tourist place in Odisha, renowned for its majestic temples that were built centuries ago but still retain their beauty over the years. Among them, the Lingaraj Temple, the Mukteswara Temple, and the Parasurameswara Temple are the most popular. Besides temples, there are also some museums, caves, and parks that you can explore.
Best time to visit: October to March
Ideal travel duration: 1-2 Days
Puri: Golden Beaches and Unique Temples
If you want a relaxing trip by the beach, then Puri is your destination. Ranked among the best attractions in Odisha, Puri is famous for its sun-kissed beaches, bustling markets, and ancient temples. It is home to the renowned Jagannath Temple, which is among the most revered temples in the Hindu religion. Besides the temples, there is a range of other places to see at Puri, such as the Puri Beach, Chilika Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary, Sudarshan Craft Museum, and Atharanala Bridge.
Best time to visit: July to March
Ideal travel duration: 1-2 days
Konark: The Land of Ancient Temples
Konark is renowned for housing the Sun Temple. Dedicated to the Sun God, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admired around the world for its intricate architecture. Besides the Sun Temple, the city also has an archaeological museum and several beautiful and serene beaches, such as Chandrabhaga Beach and Ramachandi Beach.
Best time to visit: September to March
Ideal travel duration: 1 day
Cuttack: The Cultural Capital
Cuttack is a vibrant tourist attraction in Orissa, rich in history and culture. The city is always buzzing with cultural activities and also hosts many festivals, such as the Baliyatra, Durga Puja, and the Kite Festival. Besides the cultural activities, the city is home to a range of tourist attractions, such as the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Ansupa Lake, Mahanadi Barrage, Fort of Barabati, and Temples of Singanatha & Bhattarika.
Best time to visit: July to March
Ideal travel duration: 1 day
Chandipur: The Vanishing Beach of Orissa
If you crave a peaceful and calm trip by the sea, then escape to Chandipur. It is one of the most unique seaside beaches in the country, making it a famous tourist place in Odisha. During low tides, the beach recedes up to 5 KM and proceeds rhythmically after a regular interval twice a day. The open beach allows tourists to take a leisurely walk into the sea, offering a unique experience. Chandipur is also home to endangered species, such as horseshoe crabs, starfish, and sea urchins, to name a few.
Best time to visit: November to March
Ideal travel duration: 1 day
Similipal National Park: A Biodiversity Paradise in Odisha
Located in the Mayurbanj district of Odisha, Similipal National Park is a national park and a Tiger Reserve. Spread over 2,750 sq. km, the park is one of the best tourist places in Odisha for wildlife encounters. It is home to over 55 species of mammals, 62 species of reptiles, 361 species of birds, and 21 species of amphibians.
Best time to visit: November - Mid-June
Opening Hours: Regular visitors: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, With reservation: 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Tiger Reserve Entry Pass Counter Timings: 06:00 AM to 09:00 AM
Entry Fee: INR 100
Rayagada: Odisha’s Undiscovered Cultural Gem
Rayagada is a charming district in southern Odisha, known for its unique culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscape. The district is home to a range of historical places, such as Majhighariani Temple and Maa Markama Temple, and is renowned for its cuisine, crafts and handmade products. Despite promising a comfortable and memorable experience, Rayagada has not yet been flooded with tourists. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Odisha for those seeking a peaceful, authentic trip.
Best time to visit: November to February
Ideal travel duration: 1-2 days
Sambalpur: The Gateway to Western Odisha
Sambalpur is a cultural and industrial centre in western Odisha, filled with prolific rivers, lavish hills, lush green forests and affluent wildlife. The city is also home to the breathtaking Hirakud Dam, one of the world’s longest earthen dams, spanning the Mahanadi River. Hirakud Dam is also among the best picnic spots in Odisha, offering serene views and ample space for relaxation and family outings. Besides the Dam, tourists can take blessings from Samaleswari Temple and Maa Pataneswari Temple.
Best time to visit: September to March
Ideal travel duration: 1 day
Gopalpur: A Peaceful Escape by the Sea
Gopalpur is a beautiful seaside town in southern Odisha, famous for its clean, golden-sand beach and gentle waves. Once a bustling port city before being deserted, it is today one of the best beaches on the eastern coastline of the country., making it a must-visit attraction in Orissa. Tourists can go beach hopping here, exploring famous beaches such as Gopalpur Beach, Dhabaleshwar Beach, Gopalpur Sea Beach, and Haripur Sea Beach.
Best time to visit: November to February
Ideal travel duration: 1-2 days
Daringbadi: Orissa’s Hill Station
Known as “The Kashmir of Odisha,” Daringbadi is a picturesque hill station nestled at about 3,000 feet above sea level. As one of the famous tourist places in Odisha, the hill station is renowned for its cool climate, lush pine forests, and sprawling coffee and spice plantations. Some of the must-visit attractions in Orissa’s Daringbadi include the Doluri River, Putudi Waterfalls, Dasingbadi Waterfalls, Badangia Waterfalls, and Hill View Park.
Best time to visit: September to May
Ideal travel duration: 1-2 days
Talasari Beach: A Quiet Beach for a Relaxing Time
Located on the Odisha-West Bengal border in Balasore district, Talasari beach is a famous tourist place in Odisha. The beach features calm waters, vast stretches of golden sand dunes, and a unique population of red crabs. Unlike crowded beaches, Talasari offers peaceful nature walks, serene backwaters perfect for boating, and glimpses of traditional fishing villages.
Best time to visit: October to December
Ideal travel duration: 1 day
Pipli: The Town Known For Handicrafts
Pipli is a small town near Bhubaneswar, renowned for its exquisite craftwork, used in festivals and home decor. Artisans here create colourful lanterns, umbrellas, and wall hangings that are featured during the Rath Yatra festival in Puri. Pipli is one of the best tourist places in Odisha for you to buy some beautiful handicrafts and souvenirs to take back home.
Best time to visit: October to January
Ideal travel duration: 1 day
As we conclude, it is clear that Orissa state tourism promises an unforgettable experience with its unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and spiritual richness. From majestic temples and historic monuments to pristine beaches and wildlife sanctuaries, the state has something for every kind of traveller.
To make your trip to Odisha even more memorable and hassle-free, consider exploring the range of Odisha tour packages offered by Veena World. Our expertly curated packages take care of all the details, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories.
FAQs
Q1. Are Odisha’s beaches tourist-friendly and safe?
Yes, Odisha has a long, clean coastline with a mix of spiritual, serene, and scenic beaches. Puri Beach is the most famous, known for its golden sand, religious significance, and evening camel rides. Gopalpur-on-Sea is quieter and ideal for a laid-back coastal retreat. Chandipur Beach is uniquely fascinating, where the sea recedes up to 5 kilometres during low tide. These beaches are generally safe, but it’s advisable to swim only in designated areas and follow local guidance, especially during the monsoon.
Q2. What local experiences should I not miss while visiting Odisha?
- Attend a traditional dance or music performance, especially Odissi, one of India’s classical dance forms.
- Take a boat ride in Chilika Lake to spot Irrawaddy dolphins and migratory birds.
- Visit a tribal market (haat) in Koraput or Rayagada to experience indigenous lifestyles.
- Try authentic Odia cuisine, such as dalma, chhena poda (baked cheese dessert), and prasad at the Jagannath Temple.
- Explore handicraft villages like Raghurajpur, where every home is an artist’s studio.
Q3. Is Raghurajpur village really worth visiting, or is it just for art lovers?
Raghurajpur is a living heritage village, and yes, it is worth visiting even if you’re not an art enthusiast. Every home here is a studio, where locals create Pattachitra paintings, palm-leaf engravings, and colourful paper-mâché toys. The village itself is beautifully decorated and culturally immersive. You can talk to artists, watch them at work, and even try your hand at painting. It’s a peaceful, authentic escape from tourist crowds and a great place to buy truly local souvenirs.
Q4. Can I combine nature, culture, and spirituality in a single trip to Odisha?
Odisha is one of the few states in India where wildlife sanctuaries, ancient temples, and tribal experiences exist within driving distance of each other.
- Start in Bhubaneswar for temples and history,
- Head to Chilika Lake for nature and dolphins,
- Stop at Raghurajpur for traditional art,
- Then continue to Puri and Konark for the spiritual and coastal leg of the journey.
Q5. What kind of food should travellers try in Odisha?
Odia cuisine is flavorful but not overly spicy, and incredibly diverse. Expect a balance of rice-based dishes, mild curries, and plenty of coconut and mustard flavours. You should definitely try:
- Dalma – lentils and vegetables cooked with minimal oil.
- Chhena poda – Odisha’s signature dessert made from baked cottage cheese.
- Fish curry with mustard (Maachha Besara) – a coastal favourite.
Street snacks like dahi bara aloo dum are also a must-try!
Many travellers find Odia food light on the stomach but rich in taste, especially compared to other Indian cuisines.
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