Explore the 10 Best Places to Visit in Odisha and Experience its Rich Culture and Natural Beauty
That's the best thing about travelling. It makes you an open-minded person who gets to absorb different opinions, ideas, cultures and points of view from a multitude of people all over the world. The more you travel, the more you discover about yourself and your own views about life and the world around you. So don't sit there regretting, do something about it and start planning your first trip!
What Makes Odisha a Must-Visit Destination?
If you love nature, adventure and history then we suggest you to visit this place.If you are a Trekker, Rivers lover or someone who wants to see most attractive places in Odisha visit this place once.We have listed 10 best places to visit in Odisha which will attract you the most.The top places will provide you an unforgettable experience of beauty,clearness and calmness.
A Brief Overview of Odisha and its Unique Attractions
Odisha is a state located in the eastern part of India. It is known for its unique culture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. From ancient temples to beautiful beaches, Odisha has something for everyone.
Odisha has a long history that dates back to the 3rd century BC when it was ruled by the Kalinga Empire. Today, it is home to some of India's most famous attractions such as the Sun Temple at Konark and the Jagannath Temple at Puri. The state also boasts of several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that are home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Odisha is also known for its vibrant culture which includes traditional dance forms like Chhau and Gotipua as well as various festivals like Rath Yatra and Durga Puja. With so much to explore, Odisha is one of India's top tourist destinations with something for everyone!
The Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Odisha
Odisha has a number of places that represent the true essence of India. Be it the age-old forts and temples or the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, Odisha is best experienced through its natural beauty and rich culture. Here are the top 10 best places to visit in Odisha.
Jagannath Temple Puri
Famous for its Jagannath Temple, Puri is a popular pilgrimage destination and a beach town. Jagannath Temple is an important Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Vishnu and one of the supreme divinities in Hinduism. It is located in the city of Puri in the state of Odisha, India. The temple is believed to have been built by the Somavamsi king, Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, in the 12th century AD. The temple is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus and is considered one of the most revered Vaishnava sites of worship in India.
The temple is famous for its annual Rath Yatra festival, which involves the procession of the deities on chariots. The temple complex covers an area of 400,000 square feet and consists of four main structures, namely the Vimana or Bada Deula (the main temple), Jagamohan (the assembly hall), Natamandir (the dancing hall), and Bhogamandap (the hall of offerings).
Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple premises, and they must follow a strict dress code and other rules and regulations. The temple is open from 5 a.m. to midnight, and the best time to visit is early in the morning around 7 a.m. after the first aarti ritual or after 9 p.m. to avoid the crowds.
Puri Beach
Puri Beach, also known as Golden Beach, is a popular tourist attraction and a Hindu sacred place located in the city of Puri in the state of Odisha, India. The beach is situated on the shore of the Bay of Bengal and is known for its golden sand and clear waters. It is a site of the annual Puri Beach Festival, which is co-sponsored by the Indian Ministry of Tourism and the city of Puri. The beach offers tourists the solitude and serenity to soak in the mystical charm of the city.
Konark Sun Temple
Home to the famous Konark Sun Temple, this town is also known for its beautiful beaches. The Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century Hindu temple located in the town of Konark in the Indian state of Odisha. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu sun god Surya and is designed in the shape of a chariot with 24 wheels, pulled by seven horses. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the finest examples of Hindu architecture in India. The temple is famous for its intricate carvings depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology and is a popular tourist attraction in the region.
Bhubaneswar
The capital city of Odisha, Bhubaneswar is known for its ancient temples and rich history.
Bhubaneswar is the capital city of the Indian state of Odisha. It is known for its rich history, ancient temples, and vibrant culture. The city has many important landmarks such as the Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswara Temple, Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves, and the Odisha State Museum. Bhubaneswar is also known for its delicious cuisine, which includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The city is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easy for tourists to visit and explore.
Chilika Lake
Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika Lake is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Chilika Lake is a brackish water lagoon located on the east coast of India. It is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest in the world. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including over 160 species of birds, as well as several species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. The lake has been designated as a Ramsar site since 1981 and is an important wetland for migratory birds. Chilika Lake also provides livelihoods to thousands of fishermen who depend on it for their daily sustenance.
Raghurajpur
A heritage crafts village, Raghurajpur is known for its Pattachitra paintings and traditional crafts. Raghurajpur is a small village in Odisha, India that has become renowned for its traditional crafts and Pattachitra paintings. The village is home to a number of artisans who have been practicing their craft for generations. As a result, the village has become an important cultural heritage site and is now recognized as one of the most important craft villages in India. The village's traditional crafts include wood carving, stone carving, palm leaf engraving, and more. In addition to these crafts, the village also produces some of the most beautiful Pattachitra paintings in India which are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. Raghurajpur is truly a unique place that preserves the ancient traditions of Indian artistry and craftsmanship.
Dhauli
A historic site where the famous Kalinga War was fought, Dhauli is now home to a peace pagoda and ancient rock edicts.Dhauli is a small hill located near Bhubaneswar in Odisha, India. It is known for its historical significance as the site of the famous Kalinga War, which was fought in 261 BCE between the Mauryan Empire and the Kalinga Kingdom. The war resulted in a decisive victory for Emperor Ashoka, who then converted to Buddhism and declared his commitment to non-violence.
Today, Dhauli is home to a peace pagoda built by Japanese Buddhists and ancient rock edicts inscribed by Emperor Ashoka himself. These edicts provide insight into the emperor’s thoughts on morality and governance, making it an important archaeological site for scholars of Indian history. Visitors can also explore nearby caves that were once used as Buddhist monasteries.
Hirakud Dam
One of the longest earthen dams in the world, Hirakud Dam offers stunning views and water sports. Located in the state of Odisha, India, the Hirakud Dam is one of the longest earthen dams in the world. It is a major tourist attraction and offers stunning views of its surroundings. The dam also provides a great opportunity for water sports such as kayaking, boating and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy bird watching and photography around the dam. With its picturesque landscape and serene atmosphere, Hirakud Dam is an ideal destination for those looking to escape from their busy lives.
Simlipal National Park
A tiger reserve and biosphere reserve, Simlipal National Park is home to rich flora and fauna. Simlipal National Park is a tiger reserve and biosphere reserve located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, India. It is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including the majestic Bengal Tiger. The park covers an area of 845.7 square kilometers and is part of the Similipal-Kuldiha-Hadgarh Elephant Reserve popularly known as Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve. The park has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique biodiversity and conservation efforts. It is also home to more than 1000 species of plants, including many rare and endangered species, as well as over 300 species of birds, 42 species of mammals, 36 species of reptiles, 7 species of amphibians and numerous insects.
Cuttack
Known as the "Silver City", Cuttack is famous for its silver filigree work, ancient temples, and rich culture. Cuttack is a city in the Indian state of Odisha, known for its rich culture and heritage. It is often referred to as the "Silver City" due to its famous silver filigree work. The city has a long history, with many ancient temples and monuments that attract visitors from all over the world. Cuttack also has a vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals and events taking place throughout the year. From traditional dance performances to modern art galleries, Cuttack offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a unique experience or just want to explore the city's rich history, Cuttack is sure to have something for you!
Gopalpur-on-Sea
A quiet beach town, Gopalpur-on-Sea is perfect for a relaxing getaway and water sports. Gopalpur-on-Sea is a small beach town located on the east coast of India. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. The town is perfect for a relaxing getaway, with plenty of activities to keep you entertained. From swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters to indulging in some water sports, Gopalpur-on-Sea has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure, this charming beach town has it all.
These are just some of the many wonderful places to visit in Odisha. Each place offers a unique experience and a glimpse into the rich culture and natural beauty of the state.
Conclusion
If you like to travel, then don't miss your chance to visiting the most popular places in Odisha. These places are very famous and amazing with natural beauty and so many other cultural specialties, you won't forget this trip ever. Regardless of where you're from, these places must be visited by everyone.