There are many places in Odisha to visit. But there are some such places in Odisha where, even after coming to Odisha, if you don’t visit, then there is no point in visiting Orissa, so come on, everyone. So, friends, we are going to tell you all about some of the most visited places of Odisha. You may know about this place before or not; we don’t. Still, whatever you know, you have seen and what you haven’t. Welcome to the land of rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking landscapes—Odisha! Located on the eastern coast of India, Odisha is a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Here are must-visit places in Odisha that promise a journey filled with wonder and discovery.
Puri – The Spiritual Hub
Puri is the most visited place in Odisha and one of India’s four dhams. Puri has the temple of Shri Jagannath, which is believed to be the final resting place of Lord Vishnu.Nestled along the Bay of Bengal, Puri is renowned for the Jagannath Temple. The sacred temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. The annual Rath Yatra, where deities are paraded in grand chariots, is a spectacle that shouldn’t be missed.
The best time to visit Puri is from February to October.
The best time to visit Puri is the Rath Yatra or Cart Festival, and this festival is performed in the lunar month of Asadh month (ଆଷାଢ଼ ମାସ) and falls within the months of June to July, so come to see this memorable festival.
Konark- Sun Temple
There is another place in ODISHA where a lot of visitors come, and that is Konark. Temple This Represents The Passage Time End Here you will be shown the clock of time, and you will be able to enjoy the first ray of the sun in Konark. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sun Temple in Konark is a marvel of ancient architecture. Shaped like a colossal chariot, the temple is dedicated to the sun god, Surya. The intricate carvings and the engineering brilliance of this structure make it a must-visit destination.
The temple was built by Narasimha Deva. 1200 architects were employed to build the Konark temple, and the name of the chief architect was Vishwa Maharana.
Bhubaneswar, Temple City
Bhubaneswar is the third highest traveling place in Orissa, among them Bhubaneswar is also different. The temple of Bhubaneswar Orissa is also called Malini State.
The capital city, Bhubaneswar, is aptly named the ‘Temple City of India.’ Home to numerous ancient temples, including the Lingaraj Temple and Mukteshwar Temple, it’s a city where history and spirituality intertwine seamlessly.
Raghurajpur – Artistic Village
For a dose of Odisha’s rich artistic heritage, head to Raghurajpur. This heritage village is famous for its Pattachitra paintings and traditional Odissi dance. Stroll through the narrow lanes to witness artisans at work, creating beautiful handcrafted
Simlipal National Park – Wildlife Sanctuary
Nature lovers, rejoice! Simlipal National Park is a haven for wildlife, housing a variety of flora and fauna. From majestic tigers to vibrant orchids, this national park is a perfect retreat for those seeking a tryst with nature.
Dhauli – Peaceful Retreat
Bhubaneswar, Dhauli Giri Hills stands as a testament to tranquility and spiritual significance. Atop this gentle hill, one encounters the revered Peace Pagoda, also known as Dhauli Shanti Stupa. Dhauli, with its Shanti Stupa and ancient rock edicts, is a site of historical significance. It is believed to be the battlefield where Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism, making it a serene spot for reflection and introspection.
The architectural marvel of the Shanti Stupa is further accentuated by the presence of five umbrellas atop the dome. These umbrellas, in their simplicity, represent the five essential facets of Buddhism, encapsulating its core tenets.
Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves: Architectural Marvels
Handagiri and Udayagiri Caves: Marvels of Ancient Architecture, The heart of Odisha, the Handagiri and Udayagiri Caves stand as a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient India. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, these rock-cut caves are not just physical structures but living canvases that tell stories of a bygone era.
Hirakud Dam – Engineering Marvel
Over the years, Hirakud Dam has developed into a tourist-friendly destination with well-maintained facilities. Accommodations, eateries, and recreational areas cater to the needs of travelers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
The dam and its surroundings are a haven for birdwatchers. The reservoir attracts a variety of migratory and local birds, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching enthusiasts to observe and photograph diverse avian species.
Tech enthusiasts and those interested in sustainable energy are drawn to the dam’s hydroelectric power station. The opportunity to witness the generation of electricity from the flowing waters of the Mahanadi River adds an educational aspect to the visit.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve – Wilderness Adventure (pic credit -Odisha tourism)
Satkosia Tiger Reserve – Wilderness Adventure Satkosia, known for its tiger reserve, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Experience the thrill of a jungle safari and witness the diverse flora and fauna that call this reserve home.
Satkosia is not just about nature; it also boasts a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can interact with local communities, experience traditional lifestyles, and gain insights into the cultural programs of the region.
Satkosia is renowned for its wildlife sanctuary, providing a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to embark on safaris. Visitors can catch glimpses of diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species.