There are more than 100 Tourist places in Odisha, state is a treasure full of rich culture, heritage, and vast natural beauty that attracts explorers as well as travelers from around the globe. The enchanting region of the state offers a perfect mix of historical sites, beautiful beaches, lush green forests, vibrant festivals, architectural marvels, and Different flora and fauna, making the state a must-visit destination.
Famous Tourist Places in Odisha
Odisha is well known for its temple as the state is a well-known pilgrimage site. The state has many prominent attractions out of which one the most important and a UNESCO world heritage site is Konark Sun temple.
Another highlight to be noted is Shree Jagannath Temple located in Puri, which is renowned around the globe for its famous Rath Yatra which holds immense religious significance.
The state serves some mesmerizing lakes and national parks like Chilika Lake and Simplipal National park, which boasts lush landscapes, waterfalls, and a diverse range of fauna and flora. The state’s Vibrancy in its evident festivals, displays the States’s rich culture and tradition around the globe.
The state also has some untouched beaches attracting beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Odisha offers an unforgettable journey through the time, landscapes, and traditions leaving an unforgettable mark on the hearts of those who got a chance to explore the state and its beauty and traditions.
Puri
Puri is one of the most famous and best tourist places in Odisha, also known as Jagannath puri or Purusottama Puri is a coastal city located in eastern Odisha and is the headquarters of Puri district. Best time to visit Puri is during Winter season from October to February.
Puri is known as a pilgrimage town because of the famous Shri Jagannath Temple which is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. This world famous temple is considered as one of the char dhams of India which was built by King Indradyumna of Avanti.The temple is also famous for its Ratha Yatra which is celebrated as a grand event annually.
Puri is also famous for Puri Beach located on the coast of Puri which is also known as Golden Beach. Some other major attractions of Puri are Sri Gundicha Temple, Narendra Tank, Markandeshwar Temple.
Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar is the Second Famous Tourist Places in Odisha. City is the capital and largest city of Odisha and is located in the Khordha district. Bhubaneswar is known as Temple city and is famous for many historical temples and modern infrastructure. The ideal time to visit Bhubaneswar is during Winter season from October to February.
Bhubaneswar is famous for temples such as Lingaraja Temple which is the largest as well as oldest Hindu temple and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Some of the other famous temples are Mukteswara temple, Ram mandir, Rajarani Temple, ISKCON Temple. Some other tourist attractions are Nandankanan Zoological Park with famous white Tiger, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Dhauligiri hill, Museum of Tribal Arts and Artifacts.
Konark
Konark to considered to be the third famous in list of Top tourist places in Odisha, It is located in Puri district. It is preferred to visit Konark in the month of October to March during the Winter season. Konark is famous for Sun temple, which is a UNESCO World heritage site.
Konark Sun Temple also known as Surya Deula or Surya Deul is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Sun God Surya. This famous temple was built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of Eastern Ganga dynasty about 1250 CE. It is also famous for Chandrabhaga Mela held during the February month every year. The temple is also known for great Kalinga architecture.
On the west of Sun Temple , there is a famous Mayadevi temple built during the 11th century. Goddess MayaDevi is the wife of Lord Surya.
Chilika Lake
Chilika holds the 4th rank in Top 10 Tourist places in Odisha, Chilika Lake is situated on the eastern coast of India and is connected to Bay of Bengal. It is one of the largest brackish saltwater lagoons in Asia and second largest coastal lagoon in the world. Area of Chilika lake lies on the eastern coastline of Puri, Khordha and Ganjam districts of Odisha, flowing into the Bay of Bengal and covers an area of over 1,100 square kilometers.
The best season to visit this popular Lake is during the winter season from November to February, when the variety of migratory birds species are found.
It is the largest wintering place for a great number of migratory birds. Birds from the Caspian Sea, Lake Baikal, Aral Sea and from Central and Southeast Asia, Ladakh and Himalayas come here during Winter season which makes this Lake tourist destination. Some of the bird species found include White bellied sea eagles, Greylag Geese, Purple Moorhen, Jacana, Herons and Flamingos.
Cuttak
Cuttack comes at 5th position in Tourist places in Odisha, Cuttack is a famous and second largest city of Odisha. It is headquarters of the Cuttack district. Odisha high court is located here. It is popular for the Netaji Birthplace Museum, Barabati Fort and Odisha Maritime Museum. There are lots of tourist attractions in Cuttack. Best time to visit this place is during Winter season from October to February.
Cuttack is also known as the Millennium City and also the Silver City because of the famous silver filigree works, which is best in the country and was started 1000 years ago in Cuttack.
Cuttack Chandi Temple is a popular hindu temple dedicated to the Goddess Chandi. The famous temple is located on the coast of the Mahanadi River. Durga Puja and Kali Puja festivals are main festivals celebrated annually as grand festivals. It is the most famous temple of Cuttack district.
Raghurajpur
Raghurajpur comes at 6th position in Tourist places in Odisha, also known as heritage crafts village located 10 km away from Puri is a famous pilgrim as well as beach town of Odisha.
It is famous for its rich cultural heritage , known as Pattachitra art form which is a type of painting on clothes, an art form which started in 5 BC. Some of the other traditional famous art forms of this village are palm leaf engraving, wooden toys also famous for Gotipua dance troupes, an Indian classical dance form of Odissi.
Families of this village are involved in traditional art crafts. Most of the house walls and doors are decorated with Pattachitra art. It has become a famous tourist attraction. Visitors from all over the world visit this village for its traditional art and crafts.
Gopalpur
Gopalpur comes at 7th position in Tourist places in Odisha. Gopalpur is located in the southern coast of Odisha in Ganjam district located around 15 km from Berhampur.
Gopalpur beach is known as one of the best beaches in the eastern coast of India. It is a commercial port, a popular sea beach and also a famous tourist destination extending on the coast of Bay of Bengal. The beautiful scenery of the beach attracts lots of tourists. There are lots of hotels and resorts located near the beach. People enjoy bathing in this famous sandy beach.
November to February are the best months to visit this beautiful beach as winter is the best season to visit. It is also famous for the Olive Ridley Turtle. Gopalpur Sea Beach Festival celebrated in December is the famous festival celebrated in this beach annually and attracts lots of tourists.
Similipal National Park
Similipal National park comes at 8th position in Tourist places in Odisha, It is a famous National park and a Tiger Reserve situated in the Mayurbhanj district in northern part of Odisha. This famous tiger reserve covers 2750 sq km. It is a part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves and is part of Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserves.
There are two beautiful waterfalls like Joranda and Barehipani. The National park is surrounded by high hills Meghasani and khairiburu and about 12 rivers flow across the park. The climate of the park area is moderate. Best time to visit the park is during Winter season from October to March.
Other than the famous Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, gaur, and chausingha, leopard, barking deer, etc are the species found in this famous park. More than 300 species of birds, mammals and reptiles are found here.
Chandipur Beach
Chandipur comes at 9th position in Tourist places in Odisha. Chandipur Sea Beach is the most popular tourist destination located at a distance of about 16 km from Balasore. It is also called the Vanishing sea as the sea water moves 2-5 km away during ebb tide, which is the duration between high tide and low tide.
The cool breeze blowing over the sea makes the beach an impressive place for visitors. It is also the best picnic spot and attracts a number of visitors for its beautiful seashore. The coastal area of Chandipur is surrounded by forests, hills, Hotels, etc.. Best time to visit this popular sea beach is during Winter season from October to March.
Dhauli
Dhauli comes at 10th position in Tourist places in Odisha, Dhauli also known as Dhauli Giri Hills is located on the bank of Daya River which is about 8 km away from Bhubaneswar. Dhauligiri is considered as one of the major tourist attractions. Best time to visit dhauligiri is during the winter season from November to February.
Dhauligiri hills are surrounded by plains, forests and the Daya River from three sides. It is famous as it holds much importance in the history of Odisha as well as of India.
The battle of Kalinga is believed to be fought on Dhauli hill which is considered as one of the deadliest wars in Indian history fought between the Mauryan Kingdom and Kalinga Kingdom. This is only the place where Ashoka had chosen to follow the path of Buddhism. Dhauli is also famous for Buddha Shanti Stupa also known as peace pagoda.
Hirakud Dam
Hirakud dam comes at 11th position in Tourist places in Odisha Hirakud Dam, the longest dam of the world, is located at a distance of 15 km from the city of Sambalpur in Odisha. Hirakud Dam is the longest dam of the world which is around 26 km in length and Built over the River Mahanadi.
This world largest dam is one of the first major multipurpose river valley projects which was started after independence. It took a total of 10 years to complete its construction which was started in 1947 and was completed in 1957. Height of this dam is around 200 feet. There are 3 canals in this dam named Bargarh Main Canal, Sanson Canal, Sambalpur Canal. This longest dam has 196 gates and is famous for generating electricity.
Sambalpur
Sambalpur comes at 12th position in Tourist places in Odisha, Sambalpur is the fifth largest city of Odisha basis population located on the banks of river Mahanadi. It is known as the heart of Odisha. Sambalpur district is famous for its sambalpuri Saree which is popular throughout India. The Sambalpuri sari is made up of fiber which is woven on a hand-loom.
Sambalpur district is world famous for its handloom textile work known as Sambalpur Textile which is world famous because of its unique pattern and design.
Sambalpur is also famous for world longest Hirakud Dam, built on the Mahanadi River and is about 15 km away from Sambalpur which is around 26 km in length.
Rourkela
Rourkela comes at 13th position in Tourist places in Odisha, Rourkela is a city located in Sundargarh district in northern part of Odisha. It is the third largest city of Odisha after Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. It is about 328 kilometers from Bhubaneswar. Rourkela is surrounded by a great number of hills and by rivers Koel, Sankha, & Brahmani.
Rourkela is also known as Steel City of Odisha and Ispat Magar. It is famous for the Rourkela Steel plant, which is the first integrated steel plant of India. Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL). It is also famous for the National Institutes of Technology (NIT Rourkela).
Rourkela is rich in naturally occurring minerals and has a variety of relief features and natural tourist destinations. Some of the top tourist attractions are Shree Hanuman Vatika, Vedvyas Temple and Khandadhar Waterfall. October to March is the best time to visit Steel City of Odisha.
Paradeep
Paradeep comes at 14th position in Tourist places in Odisha. Paradeep is a major industrial seaport city located in Jagatsinghpur district of Odisha located at a distance of 53 km from Jagatsinghpur city. Paradip is considered as one of the most important commercial ports of the country.
Paradip sea beach is a top tourist attraction of odisha. The view of sunrise and sunset at the beach are pleasurable. It is covered with green forest, natural creeks, blurred water, peebles and an island. This beach offers a wonderful view of the Bay of Bengal. It is preferred to visit here during monsoon season and winter season when the weather is pleasant.
Khandagiri and Udaygiri Cave
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves comes at 14th position in Tourist places in Odisha, These Caves, also known as twin hills also known as Kattaka Caves or Cuttack caves are located 7 km from Bhubaneswar in Odisha.
It is famous for its rock cut caves that were built as restrooms for Jain monks between 1st and 2nd century. Udayagiri has a total of 18 caves and Khandagiri has a total of 15 caves.
These caves are famous for beautiful carvings. Carvings are basically from history. Depiction of the Kalinga war is one of the important carvings. Most of the caves are carved with images which are unique in themselves.
These caves are also popular for inscriptions written in both the caves. The main inscription is the Hathigumpha inscription. The Hathigumpha cave has Hathigumpha inscriptions which were written in the 2nd century by Raja Kharavela.
Bhitarkanika National Park
It is located in Kendrapara district. In 1975 Bhitarkanika WildLife Sanctuary was established and it was considered as a National Park from 1988. It got the tag of second Ramsar site from the year 2002. It is spread over 672 sq area under which 145 sq area is national park.
This place is a home for vibrant types of species including saltwater crocodile, white crocodile, 8 varieties of Kingfishers, King Cobra, darters, python. This place is famous for Mangrove ecosystems. It is surrounded by Baitarani, Brahmani, Pathsala, Dharma River. A boat ride is offered from Khola to Dangmal. Which is going through the mangrove forest.
Keonjhar
It is located in northern Odisha. It is preferred to visit in the months of November to March there. This place is a perfect blend of beauty of temples, mountains, waterfalls, rivers.
There are 16 mountains located in Keonjhar. Dhaurduma hill station is the highest one. Keonjhar is the home for Juang Pirh tribals. There are 5 best waterfalls situated here. Keonjhar is the origin of Baitarani River. Keonjhar Dham is also a famous place, which is known as “Sunset view point”.
It is also famous for producing varieties of minerals like iron, Chromate, Quartzite, Bauxite, Gold. Posta, Pakhala Bhaat, Badi are some famous local foods of Keonjhar. Murga Mahadev Temple, Gonasika Temple are some famous pilgrimages.
Berhampur
It is a coastline city of eastern Odisha. The name came from Lord Brahmeswara, who is worshiped at Lathi. NH16, NH59, NH516 are going through the city. The city is a mixture of commercial hubs with traditional temples and cultural events. It is the third biggest city of Odisha.
It is also known as “The Silk City” of Odisha because of the famous silk sarees. It is also famous as the 5th biggest mango market. The city is also known for the fruit market. Chenna Poda is a famous sweet of Berhampur. Kedareshwar Temple, Maa Budhi Thakurani Temple are very famous temples of the city.
Taptapani
The hot water spring is located in Ganjam district at Sanakhemundi Block. This is a hot spring of medical Sulfuric water. Surrounded hill stations, forests add scenic beauty to this place. Tribal communities and their cultural events with the scenic beauty make this place a famous tourist place. The word “Tapa” means hot and “pani” means water.
Kuchinda and Shiva temples are located here. Devotees and tourists take bath in the water as the water has so many medical benefits. Taptapani spring resort is also available as accommodation there. It is open from Sunday to Saturday from 6 Am to 7 Pm. Digapahandi is the nearest bus stop which is located 25 km away. Nearest railway station and airport are Berhampur railway station and Biju Patnaik airport.
Phulbani Odisha
It is the municipal headquarters of Kandhamal district. The place is surrounded by flora and fauna. The place is a home for tribal people. Forests, hill stations, rivers, waterfalls add picturesque landscape in the city. The city also creates an impact on Odisha’s horticulture.
Farms of Guava Plants are situated over the town. The place is also famous for turmeric production. Katramal Waterfall, Putudi Waterfall, Pakdajhar waterfall all are situated near the town. Rushikulya River passes through the city. Pila Salunki river is also located at the bank of forest in Phulbani city. Pondha festival is one of the major festivals of this place. It is situated 208 km away from Bhubaneswar.
Mayurbhanj
Mayurbhanj is located in eastern Odisha. The place is a mixture of green landscapes with cultural tribal tradition. The famous Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve is located here. Chhau Dance is a rich heritage of the city. Budhabalanga River flows through the city.
Mayurbhanj is also considered as a world’s 50 best places to visit. Joranda Waterfall, Barehipani and Uski waterfalls are situated in Simlipal national park. This is one of the iron ore districts of Odisha. Jagannath temple of Baripada is one of the famous temples of Mayurbhanj. This is the home for Santals , Kolha, Bathudi and Bhumija tribal people. Mudhi and Mansa are the famous foods of the city.
Jeypore
It is located in Koraput district. This town also has a famous history of Odisha. It is surrounded by lakes, green valleys, and waterfalls. This is the home for communities of Gond, Dhruba, Paraja, Koya. It is situated at the southern boundary. “City of victory” is another name of the city. Kolab river flows near Jeypore. Tribal villages and markets can be easily reached from this city.
Jagannath Sagar, Sunabeda, Kolab Reservoir, Bagra Waterfall, Shakti Waterfall, Malinga Tunnel Bridge are some famous tourist spots near Jaypore. It is situated 22 km away from Koraput district. The nearest railway station is Jeypore station. Ghata Porbo, Thakurani Yatra, Saraswati puja, Doshera are some famous festivals.
Balasore
Balasore or Baleswar is the largest town of North Odisha. It is famous for Chandipur beach and ancient temples. The city is also famous for its “Akhanda” game. Balasore is also known as the “Missile City” of Odisha.
Lac art craft is the most unique art craft in Balasore. Jaukandhei art also separates the city from other districts. Nut, Mustard oils, Biri are some major crops of Balasore. Macha Ghanta, Maccha Besra, Chuna Maccha Khata are some famous foods of Balasore. Khirachora Temple, Jagannath Temple of Baleswar, Chandaneswar Temple, Panchalingeswar Saiva pitha are some famous tourist places of Baleswar.
Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport of the city. Nearest Railway station of the city is Balasore.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve
Satkosia Tiger Reserve is situated in the region of Angul and Nayagarh district. The Gorge is famous in this tiger reserve. Mahanadi River flows through the reserve. Leopard, tiger, deer, sambar, bison, giant squirrel are some species which can be found in this tiger reserve. Pied Kingfishers are the major attraction of this place. Everyday it is open from 6 Am to 6 Pm.
Mahanadi Elephant reserve is a part of this place. Satkosia Sands Resort is also available there. It is situated 125 km from Bhubaneswar, which takes nearly 3 and half hours by car. Bhubaneswar airport is the nearest airport to this place.
Baripada Odisha
It is the headquarters and city of Mayurbhanj district. It is the educational hub and center of cultural events of Odisha. The city is also known as the second puri of Odisha because of its rich culture and heritage.
This place is famous for the Rath Yatra festival and Jagannath Temple. The uniqueness of the rath yatra of Baripada is that only women are allowed to pull the chariot of Devi Subhadra.
Chhau Dance is a famous dance culture of Baripada. The Jhumar song is very famous here. Maa Ambika temple is another significant temple of the city. Mini Bali Yatra of 10 to 15 days, Jagadhatri mela are also celebrated here.
Nuapatna
It is the village of Cuttack district and has its own cultural and commercial significance. The place is famous for making Khandua, Handloom, Jala and Bomkai sarees. This is the largest place of Odisha which has 7000 weavers with 2083 looms machines. It is also considered as one of the 3 places of the country where Tasar is produced.
Buddha temple, Kalapata Mandir, Mahadev Mandir are some famous temples of the village. The whole village is famous for traditional handloom weaving and textiles. Durga Puja, Chandan Yatra, Khanda Pata, Shiva Bibhaha are some famous festivals of this place.
It is situated 60 km from Cuttack. Nearest railway station of the village is Cuttack railway station. Biju Patnaik Airport is the nearest airport.
Koraput
Koraput is the homeland for several tribal communities like Gond,the Kondh and the Gadaba. The Koraput name came from the name “Kora-Putti”. It is preferred to visit October to February in this city. The city is a perfect blend of cultural heritage with natural scenic beauty. Covered by forests, a yellow valley of Olsi flower, waterfalls with tribal cultures and communities makes the city a beautiful place worth visiting.
This city is known for the jagannath temple , “Sabara Srikhetra”. River Kolab is situated 20 km from Koraput. Bari and Lodha waterfalls add the scenic beauty of Koraput. Kolab Dam is also situated in Koraput. Sunabeda, Subai, Bagra, Gupteswar, Jolaput, Duduma are some tourist places near Koraput.
Bargarh
Bargarh is mostly famous for the Dhanu Yatra festival and its textile industry. It is located at the border of West Odisha. Because of its paddy production the place is also known as the “Rice Bowl” of Odisha. This is a home for several tribal communities and their cultures.
Patharasini of Arjunda, Boudh Bihar of Ganiapali, Baseikela Gada, Budharaja mountain of Papanga village, Giri Gobardhan of Dekulba village, Nrusinghanath temple, Baradabalunkeswara of Gaisima village are some famous tourist places in Bargarh. Sanchar, Sambalpuri Folk, Sabda Nritya are some very famous dance cultures of Bargarh. It is 303 km away from Bhubaneswar.
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri or the “hills of jewels” are the ruined parts of the Buddhist monastery, Mahavihara. It is located in the Jaipur district of Odisha. Between the Brahmani and Birupa rivers it is situated on a hill. It was formed in the 5th century under Gupta kings. This is also known as only this monastery has a curvilinear roof in India.
Around 700 Commemorative Stupas, Votive Stupas, Mahastupa, prayer halls, Buddha statues covered all over the place. Mahakal temple of Nagara architectural style is situated here. The Archaeological Museum is also situated here. (DNM)DHANMANDAL is the nearest station to Ratnagiri. Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport.
Talsari Beach
Talsari Beach or “row of Palm tree” is one of the beautiful picturesque beaches of Balasore Odisha. Red crabs are one of the major attractions of the beach. And except that Talsari is the meet point of three water bodies Bay of Bengal, Subarnarekha River and a creek.
There are other boating facilities available to see around the villages and their fishing techniques through Bichitrapur Mangroves trees. Also boating is available to Udaipur beach. The beach is a perfect blend of golden sand, tranquil beauty, unique shape and fishing boats, which make the beach a scenic beauty like a photo. Jaleswar Railway station and Bhubaneswar airport are the nearest railway station and airport to Talsari.
FAQ’s- Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the No.1 Tourist place in Odisha?
Puri is well known for its Temples and beaches as it is a pilgrimage site serving numerous temples and the famous Shree Jagannath temple and Ratha Yatra.
Which is the golden place of Odisha?
The state’s golden triangle treats you to an unforgettable experience, enjoying the beauty of the capital city Bhubaneswar, the pristine beaches of Puri, the mystical ruins of Konark, beautiful Chilika, and Charming Pipli and Dhauli. These are the Golden places of Odisha.
Which place is known as the Switzerland of Odisha?
Pustil Mountain Point.
Which city is known as the Heart of Odisha?
Angul
Which city is Known as the temple city of Odisha?
Bhubaneswar
What is the best time to visit Odisha?
The best time to plan your tour to the state is from the Month of October to February as these months have pleasant and balmy weather. However, the state can be visited throughout the year as it has moderate climatic conditions as the state is located in the coastal region.
How many days are enough for Odisha?
The package of 4 nights and 5 days will be a perfect package to explore the enchanting beauty, tradition, and culture of Odisha.
How far is Puri from Bhubaneswar?
The distance from Puri to Bhubaneswar is 61.1 Km via NH316.
What makes Odisha an Important Tourist Centre?
The wildlife reserves, beaches, temples, monuments, the arts, and festivals attract various tourists from around the globe making it a major tourist destination in India.
Which is the Called Coal City of Odisha?
Talcher is known as the coal city of Odisha or Black Diamond of Odisha as it is the fastest-growing industrial and coal Hub in the state.
I am a student and i love traveling and need to know about the tourist places in India and i am from bihar so i want to visit firstly some nearby states for tour so i was gathering information about such places so i found this blog and in this blog i got all the necessary information about the tourist places in odisha and also how can i visit their easly and when there is and special events are held.so thank you trueyatra for such useful information