Odisha Travel Guide

Overview

Located on the eastern coast of India, Odisha (formerly Orissa) is known for its ancient temples, tribal culture, serene beaches, and lush natural landscapes. With a history dating back over 2000 years, Odisha is a blend of spiritual heritage, artistic brilliance, and natural beauty. From the Jagannath Temple in Puri to the Sun Temple in Konark, the state is a treasure for history lovers and pilgrims alike.

Top Destinations

1. Bhubaneswar – The Temple City

  • Highlights: Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswara Temple, Dhauli Peace Pagoda, Nandankanan Zoological Park.
  • Why Visit: Bhubaneswar blends ancient Kalinga architecture with modern city life — it’s the spiritual and cultural heart of Odisha.

2. Puri – The Sacred Beach Town

  • Highlights: Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach, Chilika Lake (Satapada), Raghurajpur Heritage Village.
  • Why Visit: Famous for the Jagannath Rath Yatra, Puri is both a pilgrimage site and a relaxing beach destination.

3. Konark – The Sun Temple Town

  • Highlights: Konark Sun Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Chandrabhaga Beach, Konark Dance Festival.
  • Why Visit: The stunning 13th-century Sun Temple is a masterpiece of stone carving and Odisha’s most iconic symbol.

4. Chilika Lake – Asia’s Largest Brackish Water Lagoon

  • Highlights: Bird watching at Nalabana Island, dolphin spotting at Satapada, Kalijai Temple.
  • Why Visit: A paradise for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, Chilika hosts migratory birds in winter and Irrawaddy dolphins year-round.

5. Cuttack – The Silver City

  • Highlights: Barabati Fort, Dhabaleswar Temple, Netaji Birthplace Museum, Bali Jatra Festival.
  • Why Visit: Known for its silver filigree work and ancient forts, Cuttack offers a glimpse of Odisha’s craftsmanship.

6. Gopalpur-on-Sea

  • Highlights: Pristine beaches, old lighthouse, seafood delights.
  • Why Visit: A tranquil coastal getaway perfect for relaxation and water activities.

7. Simlipal National Park

  • Highlights: Tiger Reserve, Barehipani & Joranda Waterfalls, scenic forest trails.
  • Why Visit: One of India’s largest biosphere reserves, Simlipal is home to tigers, elephants, and stunning waterfalls.

8. Koraput & Jeypore

  • Highlights: Tribal markets, Duduma Waterfall, Gupteswar Cave Temple.
  • Why Visit: Experience the vibrant tribal heritage and untouched natural beauty of southern Odisha.

Culture & Festivals

  • Rath Yatra (Puri): The world-famous chariot festival of Lord Jagannath.
  • Konark Dance Festival: A celebration of classical dance against the Sun Temple backdrop.
  • Durga Puja & Bali Jatra: Major cultural extravaganzas in Cuttack and across the state.
  • Puri Beach Festival: Blends art, culture, and adventure.

Cuisine

Odisha’s food is simple yet flavorful — often cooked without onion or garlic in temple-style.
Must-try dishes:

  • Dalma: Lentils cooked with vegetables and mild spices.
  • Pakhala Bhata: Fermented rice with curd and curry — Odisha’s summer favorite.
  • Chhena Poda: Baked cottage cheese dessert, a local delicacy.
  • Rasgulla & Khaja: Traditional temple sweets from Puri.

Shopping

  • Pattachitra Paintings (Raghurajpur & Puri)
  • Silver Filigree Jewelry (Cuttack)
  • Stone & Wood Carvings, Handloom Textiles, and Tribal Crafts

How to Reach

  • By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar) is the main gateway.
  • By Rail: Well-connected rail network to Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Cuttack.
  • By Road: NH-16 runs through Odisha connecting major cities and tourist hubs.

Best Time to Visit

  • October to March: Ideal for sightseeing and festivals.
  • April to June: Hot but good for coastal areas.
  • July to September: Lush greenery and waterfalls at their best.

Travel Tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples.
  • Book accommodations early during Rath Yatra.
  • Hire local guides for temples and tribal tours.
  • Try authentic Odia thalis at local eateries.