odisha ratnagiri tourist places

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 25 Places to Visit in Ratnagiri

• Maharashtra

Tourist Places to Visit in Ratnagiri

Here are some of the best places to visit in ratnagiri:, quick navigation, jaigad fort.

Jaigad Fort is also known as the Fort of Victory and is a 16th-century marvel of Maharashtra. It can be found atop a cliff overlooking the Jaigad creek where River Shastri culminates its journey into the Arabian Sea. The fort, an important port in the Western Coast, is now under the Archaeological Survey of India. Timings: Tourists can visit the place from 8am to 7pm. Location: Located near Jaigad village, it is about 20kms to the north-west of Ganpatipule. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: Jaigad Fort is 42.6 km from Ratnagiri bus stand. Planning A Trip To Ratnagiri! Checkout Our Best Selling  Ratnagiri Tour Packages   Now!

Swayambhu Ganapati Temple

Jaigad Lighthouse

Jaigad Lighthouse is a top priority when it comes to places to visit in Ratnagiri and is situated in one of the bastions on the western side of the Jaigad Fort. The tourists visit this place to enjoy an overwhelming and a panoramic view of the area in the vicinity. A wonder of past engineering, the tower is meant for couples to spend some romantic time together. Timings: The lighthouse is open from 4pm to 5pm. Location:  It is located at a distance of 19km from Ganapatipule beach. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: It is 42.6km from the bus stand. Planning A Vacation To Daman and Diu! Checkout Our Best Selling   Daman and Diu Tour Packages   Now!

Best of Mumbai

Thibaw Point

Pandre Samudra

Pandre Samudra is a beach in Maharashtra, which is the most popular among all the beaches in Ratnagiri town. It is famous for the silvery sands, the tranquil water as well as the seashells and overall a relaxing ambience to the tourists and it is definitely one of the most important Ratnagiri tourist places. To get a reformed view of the coastline, some nearby beaches like Mirkarwada and Mandvi can also be visited. A Sai Mandir nearby, is also a point of attraction. Location: It is one of the popular beaches located very near to Ratnagiri town. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: Ratnagiri bus stand is 1km away from the beach. Planning A Vacation To Mahabaleshwar !Then You Should Checkout  Mahabaleshwar Sightseeing Tours   Now!

Ratnadurga Fort

Also known as Ratnagiri Fort or Bhagwati Fort, Ratnadurg Fort is one of the main tourist attractions in Ratnagiri district. Being surrounded by the Arabian Sea on all the three sides, strong boundaries in the form of fortifications and bastions on every side and it is definitely one of the most important places to visit in Ratnagiri There is also a beautiful Goddess Bhagawati temple other than a small Hanuman and Lord Ganesha temple. Timings: The fort is open from 8am to 6pm. Location: Ratnadurga fort is located at a distance of 2 km from Ratnagiri. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: The fort is just 3.3 km from the bus stand. Planning A Honeymoon To Mahabaleshwar! Checkout Our Best   Mahabaleshwar Honeymoon Packages   Now!

Best of Goa

Ganapatipule Beach

Bhatye Beach

Best of Pune

Velneshwar Shiva Temple

Kunkeshwar Beach

Ganeshghule Beach

One of the most pristine beaches in the Konkan Coast, Ganeshghule Beach is definitely one of the most important places to visit in Ratnagiri. It is a very calm and serene place with very less human intervention, as a result of which the tourists can enjoy peaceful walks and beautiful sunset. The couples often visit this place to enjoy a romantic walk along the sides of the beach and spend some relaxing time. Location: The beach is situated on the outskirts of Ratnagiri. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: The beach is 22km from Ratnagiri bus stand. Click Here to Book Now:  Granada Cathedral Tickets

Best of Alibag

Gateway of Ratnagiri

This is an architectural marvel with a sloped roof in the Ratnagiri jetty along with the Mandvi beach. According to the locals, this slope was built as a defence mechanism by Pratinidhi Dhondu Bhaskar. As this place provides a view to the Arabian Sea, one can enjoy the cool breeze and provides a unique walking experience along the shores. Timings: The structure is open from 9.30am to 3pm. Location: The gateway of Ratnagiri is located at the Ratnagiri Jetty, on the Mandvi Beach. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: These two places are 1.1km apart from each other. Also Checkout & Book:  La Giralda Tickets

Guhagar Beach

Tilak Ali Museum

Maintained by the Archaeological Department, this museum is famous for being the ancestral house of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak. He was born here and the place has now been converted to a museum. The museum has many exhibits in terms of paintings and photographs. To get a good knowledge about the freedom struggles, the museum should be visited. Timings: The museum is open from 9am to 6.30pm. Location: Located in Ratnagiri town of Maharashtra, it is 3.5 km from Ratnadurg Fort. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: The museum is at a distance of 1km from the bus stand. Planning A Vacation to Silvassa! Then You Should Checkout Our Best Selling   Silvassa Tour Packages   Now!

Best of Mahabaleshwar

Thiba Palace

The Thiba Palace is a major place of attraction in Ratnagiri, known to be staying place of King Thiba from Brahmadesh or today’s Myanmar. It is a huge Bramhi styled three-storied palace, with a marble-floored hall for dance events and it is definitely one of the most important places to visit in Ratnagiri Architectural characteristics such as wooden floors and the coloured Italian glasses render it a royal look with the top of the palace providing a stunning view to the Arabian Sea. Timings: The palace remains open from 10am to 5pm Location: It is a very prominent place of attraction in Ratnagiri. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: The palace is 2kms away from the bus stand. Planning A Holiday Trip To Mathran! Checkout Best Selling   Matheran Tour Packages for Family   Now!

Jai Vinayak Temple, Jaigad

Jai Vinayak temple, dedicated to Lord Vinayak, is a newly built temple in Ratnagiri district. The temple is known for its clean and beautifully decorated garden and also the fresh air and cool environment for the tourists.

A brass idol of Lord Ganesha is the ultimate expression of peace and prosperity. A pond full of fishes and a garden with lots of trees are also found inside and it is definitely one of the best places to see in Ratnagiri. Location: The temple is near to Kachare village in Ratnagiri. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: This temple is approximately at a distance of 36.8 from Ratnagiri bus stand. Planning A Honeymoon To Matheran! Then You Should   Matheran Honeymoon Packages   Now!

Devgad Beach

The Devgad Beach is a popular spot for picnics, situated between two small hills. It is a picturesque area, with some windmills located on one end. The greenery on the side of the beach is not only beautiful but provides a soothing view to the tired eyes and it is definitely one of the most important places to visit in Ratnagiri The tourists can enjoy activities like swimming and sunbathing. It is a very clean beach, with a temple on the shores and a big harbour and a lighthouse. Location: The beach is 101km from Ratnagiri, situated in Devgad town. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: The beach is around 101km from bus stand. Planning A  Honeymoon Trip To Lonavala? You should definitely Checkout   Lonavala Honeymoon Tour Packages   Now!

Best of Bhandardara

Dhamapur Lake

Dhamapur Lake is the biggest lake in the district, a man-made lake constructed in the year 1530. Built by King Nagesh Desai, it has scenic points of attractions like hill ranges and lush greenery, on its two sides and it is definitely one of the most important Ratnagiri tourist places. Water in the lake is absolutely clear and has dense plantations of mango, kokam, areca palm and coconut trees. Tourists visit this place as they can steadily feel the change in atmosphere. Location: The Lake is situated between Are and Katta village in Dhamapur of Ratnagiri village. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: The Lake is 158.4km from the bus stand.   Planning A Vacation To Igatpuri! Then You Should Checkout  Igatpuri Tour Packages   Now!

Parshuram Temple

Marine Aquarium and Museum

Best of Tarkarli

Purnagad Fort

When it comes to places to visit in Ratnagiri, Purnagad Fort is a name to be reckoned with. Purnagad fort is situated on the top of a mountain and is known for very strong construction. At the entrance, there is a deity of Lord Hanuman and a well. One can enjoy a stunning view of the Arabian Sea from the fort. Location: The fort is on the top of a mountain at the starting point of the Muchakundi Creek. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: The fort is at a distance of 24.9km from the bus stand. Planning A Vacation Trip To Panchgani! Then You Should Checkout  Panchgani Tour Packages   Now!

Devgad Fort

Devgad Fort is definitely one of the most important places to visit in Ratnagiri. People visit this place for getting an amazing view of the meeting point of Devgad Creek and the Arabian Sea. The beautiful sunset can also be enjoyed from the fort. The harbour, the bounty of nature and Alphonso mangoes also add to the popularity of the place. Timing: The fort is open from 10am to 5.30pm. Location: This fort is situated in the Devgad Taluka in Sindhudurg district. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: The fort is 97.4km away from the bus stand.

Among the many tourist places in Ratnagiri, Malgund is definitely a place worth a visit. The village is as beautiful as a painting and rose to fame because it is the birthplace of Krishnaji Keshav Damle, the birthplace of the famous Marathi poet. There are many monuments and museums that are built in his memory. One can know much about the Marathi culture and language from these museums. The village also has Nirmal Nagari, famous for Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi of Sahaja Yoga and it is definitely one of the best places to see in Ratnagiri. Location: Malgund is just 2km from Ganapatipule. Distance from Ratnagiri bus stand: The bus stand is 25.5km from the village.

People Also Ask About Ratnagiri

What are the famous places to visit in ratnagiri for couples, which are the best places to visit in ratnagiri with family, what can i buy in ratnagiri, how far is ratnagiri from ganpatipule, ratnagiri top attractions.

This 16th-century fort is one of the most notable tourist places in Ganpatipule, standing tall withstanding the tests of time. The fort was built on a cliff overlooking the Jaigad creek at the confluence of River Shastri and the Arabian Sea, to protect one of the major ports of the era.The remains of this majestic architectural splendour, extending over 13 acres at an elevation of 250 feet above sea level, will spellbind you. A moat that used to be filled with water as a protection against invaders surrounds the structure.Most of the outer walls and ramparts are intact, connected by robust bastions. If you climb the stairways, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the creek from the upper fortress. In the centre of the construction lies the palace of Shivaji’s commander-in-chief Kanhoji Angre.Location: Near Jaigad Village, approximately 20 km to the north-west of Ganpatipule.Timings: 9am to 4.30pm.

Ratnagiri Travel Guides

Ratnagiri Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Ratnagiri

More things to do in ratnagiri, more on ratnagiri tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

Places To Visit In Ratnagiri

Top hotel collections.

5 Star Hotels

Cheap Hotels

• Filter (29)
• Forts & Palaces (2)

1. Jaigad Fort

36 km from city center 1 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Jaigad Fort, also known as the Fort of Victory, is a 16th-century fort. The remains of the fort stand steady on a cliff overlooking the Jaigad creek where River Shastri enters the vast and mesmerising Arabian Sea. The stunning fort is one of the most famous places to visit in Ratnagiri.

2. Swayambhu Ganpati Temple

36 km from city center 2 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

A 400-year-old Ganesha temple, Swayambhu is built of pule which is nothing but white sand and is believed to be a self-created monolith of Lord Ganesha, allegedly discovered 1600 years ago.

3. Jaigad Lighthouse

36 km from city center 3 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

The Jaigad Lighthouse is situated in one of the bastion on the western edge of the Jaigad Fort. This impressive lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic view of the area as it is situated on top of a hill.

4. Ganapatipule Beach

18 km from city center 4 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

A clean rocky beach with fine silvery white sand, the Ganapatipule beach, is also known for the lagoon it houses. If you're the adventurous kinds, you can try your hands at balancing a kayak.

Top Hotels In Ratnagiri

₽ 1,442 onwards

₽ 1,309 onwards

₽ 1 onwards

₽ 3,329 onwards

5. Thibaw point

1 km from city center 5 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Situated at the hem of the hill, the Thibaw point has a Thibaw palace built as the exile of the king of Burma(Myanmar). It provides a picturesque view of the sunset at Arabian sea and is a centre of attraction for picnickers.

13 km from city center 6 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

20 km away from the town of Ratnagiri is Pawas, a place where Swarupanand Swami took his samadhi. Affectionately known as "Appa" or "Rambhau", Swami's original name was Ramchandra. Born on 15th December 1903, Swami undertook self-immolation at Pawas and also resided here for for 40 years before that. 

7. Pandre Samudra

2 km from city center 7 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Pandre beach is a long stretch of white sand and therefore known as 'White beach.' It is a lustrous beach with beautiful palm groves in the backdrop and crystal clear water to dip in. It is a ethereal sight to be around.

20 km from city center 8 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Malgund is the native village of the famous Marathi poet, Kavi Keshavsoot. The poet's house, which is now converted into a student's hostel, is open for visits. The village also houses a memorial to the poet, built by the Marathi Sahitya Parishad.

9. Ratnadurg fort

4 km from city center 9 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Surrounded by Arabian sea on three sides, Ratnadurg fort is a structure in a form of horseshoe as wide as 1000 meters and as long as 1300 meters. It is spread over 120 acres and was once a strong hold of the Maratha empire later to be occupied by Mughals.

10. Velneshwar

45 km from city center 10 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Situated at a distance of about 35 km from Ganapatipule, Velneshwar is a small village known for its serene, rock-free beach. This little village is flocked by pilgrims to visit the old Shiva temple, especially during the Hindu festival of Mahashivratri, which usually gets marked in the months of February or March.

11. Water Sports in Ganapatipule

18 km from city center 11 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Arranged by MTDC, Ganapatipule hosts a lot of water sports during the peak season. Row boats, banana boats, motor boats and water scooters are typically carried out here. However, water sports are typically not functional between the months of June and October.

12. Bhatye beach

3 km from city center 12 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Bhatye is the biggest town in Konkan and one of the immediate suburbs in Ratnagiri with beautiful white sand and bluish water. It gives a beautiful view of the sunset and is an ideal date spot for lovers. It also gives many opportunities for water sports.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Ratnagiri

Beaches & Islands

Things to Do in Ratnagiri

Places Near

Places to Visit Near Ratnagiri

13. City Shopping

2 km from city center 13 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Local markets from where you can buy cashews, mangoes, aam panna, kokum sharbhat, sandan and amboli

14. Tilak Ali Museum

2 km from city center 14 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Maintained by the State Archaeological Department, the Museum is the old ancestral home of the illustrious Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak. It has lots of pictures of the freedom fighter.

15. Gateway of Ratnagiri

2 km from city center 15 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

It is a structure with a slopped roof in the Ratnagiri jetty with Mandavi beach. The beach itself is a treat to eyes. The slope is a defense artwork build by Pratinidhi Dhondu Bhaskar, according to a popular belief.

16. Aare Mango Farm

11 km from city center 16 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Situated in a tiny village Nate of Ratnagiri, this farm has over 2000 mango trees spread over a land of 30 acres of rolling laterite hills. It is a mangoes paradise for the visitors.

17. Mandavi beach

3 km from city center 17 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Most crowded beach of Ratnagiri with a panoramic view of Ratnadurg fort in the west and Arabian sea to the south. It has a vast line of seashore upto Rajiwanda port.

18. Ganeshgule beach

14 km from city center 18 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Situated on the outskirts of Ratnagiri, it surely is a tranquil beach for a calm walk and romantic evenings. One can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful sunset.

19. Sri Devi Bhagwati Mandir

4 km from city center 19 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

The temple is located within the massive Ratnadurg fort and is one of the most ancient temples in Maharashtra. Deities like 'veer vignesh' and 'ashtadashbhuj' sculptors are very unique.

20. Guhagar Beach

57 km from city center 20 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

The Guhagar beach is a long stretch of pristine waters and glistening sand, lined with shady Suru trees, that extends for almost 6 kilometres. This beach is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the Guhagar Taluka, and at the same time it boasts of being amongst the cleanest beaches in the entire region, which is why people love to bathe in these clear waters.

21. Anjarle Beach

98 km from city center 21 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

The Anjarle Beach is one of the most scenic and secluded beaches in Dapoli, and looks absolutely mesmerising with its tall palm trees and clear blue waters. The non commercialised beach is also especially famous for the ¥Kadyawarcha Ganpati', which is a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh and is located on the top of a cliff.

22. Sri Kanakaditya Temple

29 km from city center 22 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Sri Kanakaditya Temple is one of the few temples situated in Maharashtra that is dedicated to the Sun God. The main idol installed here is over 800 years old and is made out of the black stone, while the structure is made out of mud and laterite stone. The temple comes to life during the Rath Festical, when a silver chariot is taken out for religious processions.

23. Swami Swaroopanand Samadhi Math

14 km from city center 23 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

The Swami Swaroopanand Samadhi Math is a religious and spacious temple. This religious place houses the Samadhi of Guru Swariipananda. A must visit place in Ratnagiri, the temple is imbued with tranquility and spirituality. The shops in the temple premises are famous for selling excellent honey, religious books, devotional CDs, etc.

24. Ratnagiri Marine Museum

3 km from city center 24 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Established in 1985 by the Marine Biological Research Station, the Marine Museum is famous for its specimens of the Sea horse fish, Lion fish, Trigger fish, Sea turtles, Star fish, Lobsters and sea snakes. The separate freshwater aquarium section is home to local species like prawns, crabs, turtles and aquatic plants.

25. Parashuram Temple

66 km from city center 25 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Built beautifully incorporating the Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture, the Parashuram Temple is famous for the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu that it represents. The 300-year-old structure houses three large idols and is famous for its celebrations of the festivals of Akshaya Tritiya, Ram Navami and Mahashivratri.

26. Dhootpapeshwar Temple

43 km from city center 26 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

The ancient Dhootpapeshwar Temple is located on the banks of the Mrudani River, and is surrounded by natural beauty all around. Devotees flock to the temple in large numbers on Mondays and on the occasion of Mahashivarati, which is the main festival that is celebrated here.

27. Aare Beach

12 km from city center 27 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

The Aare Beach is a pristine and unexplored beach that displays nature in her best form. One of the most scenic destinations in all of Maharashtra, the beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is reputed for being completely garbage free. The clean waters make it an ideal place for swimming!

28. Patit Pavan mandir

2 km from city center 28 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

The Patit Pawan Mandir is a famous Hindu temple that was built by Shriman Bhagojisheth Keer in 1931. This is a place where even untouchables can worship their God as other people would, and thus the development of the temple created a storm in an age where untouchables were constantly dehumanized.

29. Velas Turtle Festival

29 out of 29 Places To Visit in Ratnagiri

Come March, the sleepy little village of Velas in the Konkan belt of Maharashtra throngs with travellers for the ‘Velas turtle festival,’ an annual event dedicated to the conservation of Olive Ridley turtles. Held at the Velas beach of Ratnagiri, 200 kms from Pune, the Velas turtle festival has been gaining much popularity in the eco-tourism sector both nationally and internationally. While the activities of conservation of turtle eggs take place at the beach, the natives of the pristine coastal village offer visitors many exhilarant local activities and culinary experiences, turning the festival into a cherish worthy multi-day event.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Ratnagiri

Can you suggest an itinerary for ratnagiri, how can i commute within ratnagiri, what are the top sightseeing places in ratnagiri, browse hotel collections, by hotel type.

Best Resorts In Ratnagiri

Villas In Ratnagiri

By Budget Category

Cheap Hotels In Ratnagiri

By Star Category

5 Star Hotels In Ratnagiri

With Specific Facilities

Homestays In Ratnagiri

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

Ratnagiri Odisha: A Lost Buddhist Monastery You’ll Want To Explore

Last Updated on March 31, 2021 by Soumya

If you are in Bhubaneswar, then it is a great idea to visit the Diamond Triangle of Odisha which was once the seat of ancient Buddhist learning in eastern India. This ensemble includes three remarkable Buddhist sites – Lalitgiri , Udayagiri, and Ratnagiri in Odisha.

I have always been fascinated by these 3 ancient cities. Being a local, I have stolen every possible opportunity to visit the ruined stupas and monastery of Ratnagiri Odisha – one of the most well-excavated sites in the Diamond Triangle.

So, here’s my complete guide to visiting Ratnagiri in Jajpur, Odisha . Here, you will learn.

• All about things to see and do in Ratnagiri including what to see at the famous Ratnagiri monastery.
• How to plan a day trip here from Bhubaneswar and how to make the most of your time.
• What not to miss and all the unique aspects of Ratnagiri Odisha.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

History of Ratnagiri Odisha

Ratnagiri is an ancient Buddhist heritage site located in Jajpur Odisha. Historians believe that the city was established in the 5th century under the reign of Gupta kings.

Eventually, Ratnagiri in Odisha became home to one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India. In other words, this was Odisha’s very own Nalanda University. Large number of Buddhist scholars from all over the world came to study at Ratnagiri.

It is also believed that Odisha’s Ratnagiri was an important pilgrimage site and an easily accessible one especially for pilgrims from South East Asia. The huge number of votive stupas (more on that below) discovered here stands testimony to that. Historians also believe that art freely made its way between Ratnagiri and Indonesia , Cambodia , and Sri Lanka . This deduction is based on similar Buddha statues and heads discovered at all of these places.

At one time, Ratnagiri was an important center for Mahayana Buddhism . Many sculptures present here show Mahayana influences. Later, Ratnagiri turned into the birthplace of a tantric form of Buddhism known as Vajrayana – evidences of which can be seen in the sculptures.

Ratnagiri Odisha flourished between the 5th and 12th centuries. It started to decline in the 13th century and was completely gone by the 16th. Around the same time that Buddhism disappeared from Odisha.

Lookin for other interesting day trips from Bhubaneswar? Try Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary .

What to see at Ratnagiri Odisha?

The archaeological site at Ratnagiri Odisha can be broadly divided into two parts: the ruins and the museum . The ancient city was located on the top of a flat hill. According to a note on the site, this was done on purpose so that monks had a calm and peaceful atmosphere to practice their studies and meditate.

As you climb up towards the hill containing the ruins, you will notice an enclosure with hundreds of votive stupas. Beyond that there are the monasteries and the main shrine. The museum is nearby and you can approach through a separate gate. Come, let’s take a tour.

Ratnagiri University or Ratnagiri Monastery

The main attraction of the historical ruins at Ratnagiri Jajpur is the huge Ratnagiri university or monastery that once housed hundreds of devout Buddhist monks.

Well, actually if you dig deeper you realize that there are actually 2 monasteries in Ratnagiri. One big and one small. They are right by the side of each other. However, the popularity of the bigger one kind of camouflages the smaller one. If you are interested to see both, just step out of Monastery 1, turn to your right, and head towards the smaller Monastery 2.

Ratnagiri Monastery 1 – The central attraction

The bigger monastery #1 is definitely the most important attraction in Ratnagiri . Its principal entrance, main shrine, and a shrine façade that stands within the courtyard are all worth seeing.

Outside the monastery

If you have seen pictures of Ratnagiri, you will be able to recognize the main entrance gate, an elaborately carved doorway that has come to be named “The most beautiful monastery entrance in India”. There are three layers to it – an innermost layer of floral vines, a middle layer of carved lotus petals, and an outer layer of plants and flowers.

You will also see a number of sculptures of Bodhisattvas and their female counterparts right outside the entrance. This is a good place to click those amazing pictures that you have been vying for.

Inside the monastery

The monastery follows the same pattern as the other Buddhist monasteries in Odisha’s Diamond Triangle and has a large central courtyard (also the prayer hall) surrounded by monk rooms, verandah, and a main shrine.

There are 24 monk cells on the ground floor and there is evidence that there were at least two floors here. I believe that to be true because in both Udayagiri and Lalitgiri , you will find stairs that take you up to a higher floor – stairs you can still climb today.

The main shrine houses a huge statue of Buddha in the seated position flanked by the images of two Boddhisatvas, Padmapani and Vajrapani. The doorway to the shrine is elaborately carved.

Inside the courtyard on your left, you will also see a carved façade (with 7 gates) that stands a little out of the place in the entire ensemble. Apparently, this is the entrance to another shrine but it is hard to place where exactly this piece belonged. Nonetheless, this façade serves as a great photo booth!

Related: Explore the monastery and museum of Lalitgiri Odisha

Ratnagiri Monastery 2

Right next to monastery #1 is another smaller and less popular monastery. A small path separates the two. The ruins of the second one are more rudimentary and it is difficult to figure out the monk cells here. However, the main shrine remains and inside you can see a big standing statue of Buddha.

Maha Stupa of Ratnagiri

Right in front of the monasteries, on the top of a small hillock (easy to climb) stands the Maha Stupa of Ratnagiri. This main stupa was built in the 9th century and stands 17 feet tall now.

At Ratnagiri, you will see a large number of small and medium-sized stupas surrounding the main stupa or lying scattered here and there. The smaller ones are known as votive stupas – offered by devotees for fulfillment of wishes. The medium ones are called commemorative stupas – created in the memory of monks with their relics.

More than 700 small stupas were excavated at Ratnagiri. And like we discussed earlier, this discovery points to the importance of Ratnagiri as a Buddhist pilgrimage site.

Excavators also found terracotta seals here which helped them identify the site as Ratnagiri.

Helps to know

• If you are visiting Ratnagiri between 11 am – 4 pm, carry water, sunscreen, and hat because it gets really hot here. Even in winters!
• Must-see attractions at Ratnagiri – The main entrance gate of monastery 1, the main shrine, and the main stupa.

Archaeological Museum of Ratnagiri

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Soumya Gayatri (@storiesbysoumya)

Apart from the ruined stupas and university of Ratnagiri, I loved visiting the Archaeological Museum of Ratnagiri . It is an absolute treasure trove of historical artefacts excavated in the area and gives you deep insights into the evolution of Buddhism in Odisha.

The museum has 4 display rooms (called galleries) and a long, elevated corridor which has some interesting exhibits too. At the beginning of the corridor, on your right, you will find a panel showing the evolution of Odia script right from the times of Ashokan Brahmi in 3rd century BC. And at the end of the corridor, in the verandah at the back, is a panel that takes you through the rise and fall of Buddhism in India and Odisha.

The 4 galleries are filled with ancient artifacts. These include small votive stupas, sculptures made of stone and bronze, pottery, plates, and seals. You will find statues of Buddha and Boddhisatvas in various postures in all the galleries.

Helps to know:

• The museum is well-lighted and ventilated. Even if there is a power outage (there was one short one when we visited), you will be able to see the displays properly.
• Photography is permitted at the Ratnagiri Museum.

Tickets to Ratnagiri Jajpur Odisha

Tickets to the archaeological site cost INR 25 for citizens of India, BIMSTEC countries, and SAARC countries. Foreigners need to pay INR 300 (approx. USD 4). Plus, there is a camera charge of INR 25 (approx USD 0.35). Children below 15 years of age enter for free.

Tickets to the Ratnagiri Museum are very cheap at INR 5 for both citizens and foreigners. In a post-COVID scenario (early 2021), the museum was only accepting online ticket purchases. So, make sure you have an active internet connection when you get here.

Ratnagiri Odisha opening hours

The museum is closed on Fridays. On other days, it remains open from 9am to 5pm. Opening hours for the excavated site at Ratnagiri are the same.

Best time to visit

Since all of the ruins are out in the open, I would recommend you to visit Ratnagiri Odisha during the winter months of November – February. The weather is pleasant and it is an amazing time to hop between the 3 sites of the Diamond Triangle without feeling the heat.

How to get to Ratnagiri in Jajpur, Odisha?

The distance between Ratnagiri and Bhubaneswar is less than 100 km (62 miles). This means that Ratnagiri can be easily visited as a day trip from Bhubaneswar which I highly recommend. Since Bhubaneswar is the capital of Odisha, you will find better accommodation options here. Click here to find the best hotels in Bhubaneswar.

The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Bhubaneswar to Ratnagiri is by car/private cab. You can easily hire an Ola outstation cab for a day trip to the Diamond Triangle. Or ask your hotel to arrange for a cab and driver. The journey takes around 2 hours 30 minutes.

You can also take the train from Bhubaneswar to Jajpur-Keonjhar Road station. And then take a cab from there to Ratnagiri. Clearly not the easiest way but it is doable.

Loved our Ratnagiri Odisha travel guide? Pin it for later!

You may also like:

• Explore Lalitgiri Odisha: Lost Buddhist Ruins + An…
• Vadnagar Gujarat: Best Things To Do + History + Travel Tips
• Visiting Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary in India - All…

5 thoughts on “ Ratnagiri Odisha: A Lost Buddhist Monastery You’ll Want To Explore ”

Beautiful post! Have visited Bhubaneswar and Puri several times, but only knew about Khandagiri, Udaygiri, and Dhabalgiri. Thank you for sharing pictures from such a beautiful site of the diamond triangle.

Well described in short with wonderful photographs. A place worth to be visited by any one .

Absolutely true. So less is known about these three iconic sites of Odisha. They can become very popular destinations for the history-seeker.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Post Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Begin typing your search term above and press enter to search. Press ESC to cancel.

India Tourism, Travel Destination Sightseeing, Tourist Attraction -NomadLine.com|

Traveller's chronicle, ratnagiri, tourist places to visit in ratnagiri odisha, buddhist site.

Ratnagiri Tourist Attractions

How to Reach Ratnagiri

Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport at a distance of 90 kms to Ratnagiri

Closest Railway Station is Cuttack, 70 km away from Ratnagiri and is connected with all the major railway heads in the country.

Ratnagiri is well connected to Cuttack, through direct and regular bus service.

Where to stay

Based at Bhubaneswar , the Ratnagiri could be taken as an excursion. One can stay at the Trident or the Oberois.

Excursions – Tourist Places Near Ratnagiri

Bhubaneswar.

Bhubaneswar , the capital of Orissa is mere a 90 km away from Ratnagiri but a reasonably good place to visit as the road communication is quite good. It’s a renowned Hindu pilgrimage with as many as 500 temples, architecturally brilliant and excellent for studying the architectural styles of 3rd Century. The Lingaraja temple, Kalinga Buddha Vihara, the Jaggannatha temple and the Mukteshwar temple is also a big attraction for the tourists. The place is also a shopping destination in Orissa .

Lalitgiri and Udayagiri

The Lalitgiri and Udayagiri hills are nearby and offer an excellent addition for the Buddhist pilgrims to go through some other important ancient Buddhist remains and taste the ancient art sculptures.

The recent excavations, revealing some interesting facts, in the Langudi hills that are worth a watch with utmost interest. There are many Stupas cut out from rock grabbing attention, the Buddha in Samadhi-mudra, Sculpture of Goddess Tara, the harmonic umbrella, the Cylin dome etc have revealed a new chapter in the Buddhist tourist destinations.

More Tourist Places to Visit in Odisha

Create your own review

Related News

Buddhist Sites in India

4.5 / 5 ( 2 votes ) Buddhist sites in India is spread all across Read More

Best Places to Visit in Kushinagar

4.5 / 5 ( 2 votes ) Kushinagar is one of most holy Buddhist site Read More

Dhauli, Tourist places to visit in Dhauli Odisha, Buddhist Site

Nagarjunakonda, tourist places to visit in nagarjunakonda, andhra pradesh, lalitgiri ratnagiri udayagiri, golden triangle, odisha buddhist site, udayagiri, tourist places to visit in udayagiri odisha, lalitgiri, tourist places to visit in lalitagiri, odishabuddhist site.

Comments are Closed

• Prehistoric
• From History
• Cultural Icons
• Women In history
• Freedom fighters
• Quirky History
• Geology and Natural History
• Religious Places
• Heritage Sites
• Archaeological Sites
• Handcrafted For You
• Food History
• Arts of India
• Weaves of India
• Folklore and Mythology
• State of our Monuments
• Conservation

Ratnagiri Buddhist Complex – The Birthplace of Vajrayana

• AUTHOR Akshay Chavan
• PUBLISHED 07 September 2023

Nestled amongst the rolling hills in the Jajpur district of Odisha, lies a hidden gem – the Ratnagiri Archeological complex - that was the birthplace of a unique form of Buddhism that spread across Asia. Known as Vajrayana or Tantric Buddhism, this school of Buddhism has captured the hearts and minds of over 18 million people, from the lofty heights of Tibet to the rugged terrain of Mongolia and the Himalayan belt.

Yet, despite its vast following, few have heard of the place where it all began - the Diamond Triangle of Odisha , a trio of ancient Buddhist sites - Ratnagiri, Udaygiri and Lalitagiri , perched atop the Assai hill range near the historic town of Jajpur. Here, the spiritual roots of Vajrayana Buddhism run deep, and visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the region.

‘Ratnagiri’ – The Mountain of Gems and its layout

Located 25 kms away from the town of Jajpur, is the Ratnagiri archaeological site which looks a bit deceptive at first. At first glance, it may seem unremarkable, but as you wind your way through the idyllic countryside, you can't help but be enchanted by the serene beauty of the surroundings.

Entering the main archeological complex, a long flight of steps beckons you upwards, leading to a mesmerizing sight - a multitude of votive stupas, standing tall and proud. Each one a testament to the great teachers and scholars who once graced this sacred land. But what truly captures your attention, are the intricate reliefs adorning each stupa - delicate carvings of tantric goddesses, their divine beauty a sight to behold. It's as if the very air around you is infused with the power and energy of the ancient faith that once thrived here.

Beyond these votive stupas, lies the remains of the great monastery complex of Ratnagiri, which once comprised of the great Mahastupa, three large monasteries or Viharas and numerous other religious shrines.

The fabled Green Chlorite Doorway

Prepare to be awed as you approach the magnificent Green Chlorite doorway, the pièce de résistance of Ratnagiri. This masterful sculpture serves as the entrance to the primary building in the complex - Monastery No.1. Standing proudly on the left is a rare and precious statue of the revered Goddess Yamuna. It is said that a statue of the Goddess Ganga once graced the doorway's right side, but alas, it is now lost to time.

Step through the Green doorway and enter the courtyard, the very heart of Monastery No.1. Here, you can almost hear the echoes of teachings from the past, as you stand where monks and students once gathered to learn and meditate. The 24 surrounding cells that once housed the resident monks are a testament to the vibrant community that once thrived here.

At the center of Monastery No.1 lies a shrine that holds a majestic stone-carved statue of Buddha, a sight that is sure to leave you in awe. As you explore further within the courtyard, you'll come across numerous remains of colossal Buddha heads, a testament to the grandeur and opulence that once defined Ratnagiri. It's an experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the majesty of this ancient site.

Monastery No.2, a smaller but equally impressive structure that sits adjacent to the main monastery. With a layout similar to its larger counterpart, Monastery No.2 boasts a courtyard surrounded by residential cells and a central shrine, all perfectly crafted to evoke a sense of peaceful contemplation.

Standing proudly before the monasteries is the Mahastupa, the crowning jewel of Ratnagiri's worship center. This awe-inspiring structure served as the focal point of worship, drawing devotees from far and wide. As you take in the breathtaking sight, you'll also come across a number of small votive stupas, each one a work of art in its own right. The intricate carvings and motifs adorning these structures speak volumes about the skill and creativity of the artisans who created them.

Ratnagiri and The Development of Vajrayana

The Ratnagiri Mahavihara site holds a significant place in the history of Buddhism, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Vajrayana Buddhism, which eventually spread across the Himalayan belt. The emergence of Tantric Buddhism has been extensively studied by experts like Ronald M. Davidson, Professor of Religious Studies at Fairfield University in Connecticut, who examined how Buddhism integrated local and tribal practices and evolved into its Tantric form, divergent from the original teachings of Buddha. The Diamond Triangle in Odisha, where Ratnagiri is located, was the site of this transformation. Between the 8th and 11th centuries CE, Vajrayana Buddhism thrived in India alongside Mahayana Buddhism, and today it is the most prevalent form of Buddhism in the Himalayan region.

Taranatha, the lama of Tibet, records in his book "History of Buddhism in India" (1608 CE) that a vihara, called Ratnagiri, was built on the crest of a mountain in the kingdom of Odivisa (Orissa). He notes that 500 monks were residing at Ratnagiri and that they followed Tantric Buddhism. Pag Sam Jon Zang, a Tibetan book written in 1747 CE, also adds that Ratnagiri was an important center in India from where Kalachakra tantra spread throughout the world. This belief is still prevalent in Tibetan monasteries in India today, reaffirming Ratnagiri's significance in the history of Buddhism.

Rise and Fall of Ratnagiri Mahavihara

Ratnagiri complex began to first develop during the first half of the 6th century CE, under the reign of Gupta Emperor Narasinghagupta Baladitya. Its grandeur was further elevated by the Bhaumakara dynasty, which ruled the region from the 7th to the 10th centuries. The Jajpur region, with its thriving trade links to Southeast Asia, attracted wealthy merchants and traders who generously patronized the Buddhist monasteries in the area. Even during the Somavanshi period in the 11th-12th centuries, the patronage to these complexes continued unabated.

Regrettably, the complex fell out of use from the 12th century CE onwards when Buddhism in India suffered a decline due to the twin pressures of Turkic invasion in eastern India by Bhaktiyar Khilji, a military general of Qutb al-Din Aibak, and the Hindu renaissance, which led to the construction of elaborate temples and a shift in royal patronage. One can witness this transformation in the splendid temples of Bhubaneswar, such as Mukteswar (10th century) and Konark (13th century), built during this period. Despite the loss of patronage, Buddhist monks continued to reside at Ratnagiri for a while after the 12th century.

The Rediscovery of the Site

However, eventually, the site was abandoned and left in ruins until its rediscovery and excavation in 1958, which unveiled its rich past to the world.This site was first excavated by Debala Mitra, between 1958 and 1961. She would go on to be the first female director-general of ASI between 1981-1983.

The excavations unearthed a big complex containing two monasteries, a large stupa , numerous smaller structures, a temple and numerous votive stupas (small stupas which hold relics)- about 700 in number, made of brick or stone in different sizes. Along with a large number of sculptures, important finds at the site included a metal sealing with the inscription ‘ Sri-Ratnagiri-mahavihariyarya-bhiksu-sanghasya. ’ It was on the basis of this that the site was identified as Ratnagiri.

The exquisitely carved walls of the monasteries with rich antiquities including stone and bronze sculptures of Buddha and Buddhist deities ( boddhisattvas ) like Tara, Vajrapani, Padmapani shows highly skilled workmanship. There are also two dozens colossal sculptures of the heads of Buddha of various sizes excavated at Ratnagiri like the ones found at Borobudur in Java and Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka.

Today, Ratnagiri Archeological Complex is a protected site under the Archeological Survey of India and one of the biggest tourist attractions of Jajpur district. Thousands of tourists travel to the site each year, to admire the marvels of one of the most important Buddhist archeological sites in India.

Peepul Tree World powered by Live History India, is a first of its kind digital platform aimed at helping you Rediscover the many facets and layers of India’s great history and cultural legacy. Our aim is to bring alive the many stories that make India and get our readers access to the best research and work being done on the subject. If you have any comments or suggestions or you want to reach out to us and be part of our journey across time and geography, do write to us at [email protected]

Handcrafted Home Decor For You

Blue Sparkle Handmade Mud Art Wall Hanging

Handcrafted Tissue Box Cover Sea Green & Indigo Blue (Set of 2)

Scarlet Finely Embroidered Silk Cushion Cover

Sunflower Handmade Mud Art Wall Hanging

Related Stories

Share Your Moments

We would ❤ to hear your travel story;

Mail us : [email protected]

Inspire others to travel with your inputs : Be our co-traveler  

• Information
• Custom Section 1

65KM per person

• The StupasStupas : Stupas are the main attraction that is presented in a big variation portraying a glowingdemonstration of Buddhism in antediluvian India. Stupas are lit with fire they create a unique view. They definitelysymbolizethe beautiful and religious place as the only location with such enormous Stupas.
• The Monasteries – Gateway to Divinity and Spiritualty The Monastries : Monasteries are the main attraction here that describe the glorious past of Ratnagiri in Odisha.

Interesting things to visits near: Main Attractions Exploring the most religious and paramount Buddhist sculptures, especially around the hills of Odisha is gives you a true experience of peace of mind and soul that every Buddhism follower wants to visit. Yes, the famous place is Ratnagiri of Jajpur , one of the famous destinations in Buddhist Tour in Odisha. However, the history of Ratnagiri is also related to Gupta Dynasty. Talking more about Ratnagiri, it has been a historical and religious significance that make it an ideal destination to explore. The small yet religious town in Jajpur District is known for a huge monastery that relates to Mahayana Sect along with famous kings like Ashoka and others from Gupta Dynasty. Apart from its strong historical backgroung, Ratnagiri is also known for the flow of main rivers of Odisha known as Mahanadi, Brahmani, Kimiria and Birupa.

Along with enjoying the beauty of these major rivers of Odisha you can find wide range of different tourist attractions in and around Ratnagiri that keeps in account the places like Dhaulagiri, Lalitgiri, Udayagiri and many more. But mostly the highlight of all attractions are the Buddhist Circuit like monasteries, stupas and chaityas. In addition, Ratnagiri tourism is also known for Buddhism of Tantric cult that is popularly known as Vajrayana. According to Tibetan Buddhist texts the Kalchakrayana also flourishedsuggestively in this religious place.

The Konkan city of Ratnagiri can be visited at any time during the year. However, it is best to go to the city between October and March. The weather during this time is very pleasant and tourists can be assured to have a comfortable and enjoyable stay at Ratnagiri. Following are brief descriptions of the general weather front of Ratnagiri, through the different seasons

descriptions of the general weather front of Ratnagiri, through the different seasons:

Summer Summer in Ratnagiri takes place during the months of March, April and May. The highest temperature during this season can shoot up to around 380C. The days can get hot and uncomfortable but the nights are more hospitable.

Monsoon Monsoon months in Ratnagiri are June, July, August and September. Monsoons are pretty strong in this region, sometimes accompanied by conditions of floods. However, monsoons make the landscape really picturesque. The climate is also pleasant.

Monasteries are the main attraction here that describe the glorious past of Ratnagiri in Odisha

Destination

From our gallery.

Ratnagiri is well-networked by air, rail and road transport. Its closest airport is Bhubaneswar, connected to all the major cities across India. The nearest Railway Station is Cuttack, 70 km from Ratnagiri and connected to major stations in the country. You may reach Ratnagiri by road from Cuttack through direct and regular buses running between the two spots

Suggestions

Konark Museum

Archeological Museum

Archaeological museum, ratnagiri.

Regional Science Centre Bhubaneswar

Odisha State Maritime Museum Cuttack

Odisha state maritime museum.

Kala Bhoomi Odisha Crafts Museum

Regional Museum of Natural History Bhubaneswar

Regional museum of natural history.

Odisha State Museum

Konark Sun Temple

Jagannath Temple

Ratnagiri (Odia: meaning “hill of jewels”) is the location of a ruined maha vihara, which was once the most important Buddhist monastery in modern Odisha, India. It is located in the Jajpur district on a hill between the Brahmani and Birupa rivers. It is close to other Buddhist sites in the area, including Lalitagiri and Udayagiri, and is 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Bhubaneswar, the state capital, and 70 kilometers from Cuttack, the former state capital. The Buddhist monuments were built starting in the 5th century CE and ending in the 13th century, with the peak era of activity being during the 7th and 10th centuries. The site was abandoned after the 16th century, and it is now in ruins. These were little known until the 1960s, when the Archaeological Survey of India (“ASI”) conducted significant excavation projects, revealing the site and unearthing large quantities of very excellent sculptures. “The finest in terms of carved stone decoration to have survived in India,” according to Monastery 1. Some of it was relocated to other museums, but much of it remained on site. A museum has recently opened at the location to hold many of the pieces. Three quadrangular monasteries, as well as a spectacular stupa (Stupa 1) encircled by hundreds of smaller stupas of varied sizes, were the key elements (Monasteries 1 to 3). Monastery 1 is the largest, with a stunning carved doorway, a large open courtyard, cells, and verandahs facing the courtyard, and a great shrine centered on a giant Buddha. The buildings are mostly made of brick (much of which has since been removed), but the doorways, pillars, and sculptures are mostly made of two different types of stone that contrast nicely. A “blue-green chlorite and the local khondalite, a garniferous gneiss with plum-colored overtones” are involved. The majority of the stone sculptures unearthed at the site, together with a few (27) metal and brass figurines, are of the “Post-Gupta” style, with the earlier ones maintaining the classic form of Gupta art. The images are large of Buddha and the Buddhist pantheon, and examination of the topic patterns over time reveals that Ratnagiri, like Nalanda in Bihar, became a center of Tantric Buddhism. Over two dozen enormous Buddha heads, in particular, have been discovered.

Related posts

Lalitagiri  

Ranipur Jharial (Balangir)

Ananta Vasudeva Temple

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Art & Crafts
• Bird Sanctuary
• Hill Station
• Mahima Shrine
• National Park
• sakti pitha
• Scenic Spot

Ratnagiri (Ancient Biddhist Monastery)

• Attractions

Best time to visit: Winter

District: Jajpur

Elevation: 14m

Open Time: 12hrs

Popular Cuisine: Local Food

Attractions: The Stupas, The Monasteries, The Motifs, Bhagbat Temple, Gopaldijiu Temple, Ratnagiri Local Park, Single Winged Monastery, Ratnagiri Museum, Mahakala Temple

Nearest Bus Stop: Ratnagiri

Nearest Railway Station: Jajpur Road (56km)

Travel Options: Bus, Cab

Nearest town: Jajpur (37km)

Distance from Bhubaneswar: 92 km

Average user rating

Rating breakdown, hotels & spa, restaurants, put your ad here., your review :, suggest edit.

Ratnagiri Monastery & Great Stupa: Jajpur, Odisha

So, we moved to Ratnagiri Monastery and other archaeological remains after visiting Udayagiri Monastery ,  the other major Buddhist archaeological complex while exploring the best of Jajpur Tourism . Unlike the former, Ratnagiri is not very desolate. It is located close to human settlements and it also seemed better maintained than Udayagiri. (This also meant it had entry tickets and stricter rules like no drones… Not that I was carrying it).

Ratnagiri is also a more compact site with the major structures located adjacent to each other. We climbed the stairs for a while and then suddenly arrived in front of the remains of a giant vihara. Let’s have a look at various aspects of the Ratnagiri Monastery one by one. 

Jump to Specific Queries

History and Rediscovery of Ratnagiri Monastery Ruins 

The Ratnagiri Buddhist Site including the big Monastery and giant stupa was discovered by archaeologists in the early 20th century although serious excavations took place only in the 1950s. The site is situated in the Ratnagiri hill range, which is a part of the Pushpagiri forest. It is collectively a part of the Diamond Traingle of Odisha, the three major Buddhist archaeological sites along with Udayagiri and Lalitgiri.

From the sculptural and epigraphic remains it is evidenced that the earliest Buddhist establishment at Ratnagiri was about 5th century AD and continued up to 13th century AD. Thereafter, it gradually lost its importance and deserted after some years. The historicity of Ratnagiri in different sources like historical records, epigraphic or literary evidences including a copper plate charter of Somavamsi king Karna, found from the excavation proved that Ratnagiri was an important religious and philosophical center of yoga and tantric Buddhism (Vajrayana).           

Votive Stupa Cluster

The first thing we saw was a cluster of small votive stupas. While I have seen them in many places, I did some research about their purpose. They apparently originate in the eight cylindrical structures in which the Buddha’s relics were placed after his Mahaparinirvana. The stupa shape is usually associated with the main goal of Buddhism, i.e. release from the cycles of rebirth and suffering.

The Maha Stupa

One of the most notable structures at the Ratnagiri is the Maha Stupa or Great Stupa, which is believed to be one of the largest stupa in eastern India. The stupa is said to have been built during the 6th century CE and is believed to have been a center for Buddhist learning and practice. The Great Stupa is mostly in ruins and is surrounded by smaller stupas that can still be seen.

Another notable item here is the barely visible portion of what looks like a giant Buddha state. We almost stepped on it but thankfully we didn’t. Apparently there’s much more to this site which are yet to be excavated. This is probably another giant monastery underneath!

Monastery No. 1

The best preserved structure at Ratnagiri is the Monastery No. 1, which is considered to be the oldest and largest monastery at the site. The monastery has several chambers and is believed to have housed several hundred Buddhist monks at a time. The monastery has several well-preserved sculptures and frescoes that depict the life of the Buddha and other important Buddhist figures.

Even the entry gate is one of the most remarkable aspects of the structure. The doorway has a distinct bluish green tinge because it has been made using blue chlorite stone. There are a lot of sculptures on the gate and walls, the most notable one being that of Hariti. She is a deity who was essentially a demoness and after being converted to the Righteous Path by the Buddha himself, eventually became a deity. There are other sculptures of Tara, Manjusri, Aparajita etc along with Avalokitesvara and other Bodhisattvas.

The is a shrine at the back wall of this compound where you can still see a larger than life Buddha statue almost intact, along with a lot of other sculptures. Altos noteworthy are the giant Buddha heads that are probably the most photographed item in this site. 

Monastery No. 2 and Other Structures 

Monastery 2 is located adjacent to the Monastery 1. It’s somewhat smaller and less adorned compared to the other one. The best way to get a clearer view of this structure is to climb the stairs of Monastery 1. 

Mahakal Temple 

Just beyond the big stupa, there is a big medieval Shiva Temple. It is a comparatively newer structure built around 15th century after the decline of this site and Buddhism in general. I was somewhat alarmed by the indiscriminate painting and restoration work here that seems to have affected the original look of the temple.

The Ratnagiri Archeological Museum

The museum here stores a lot of artifacts found during the excavations. However, it was unfortunately closed when we visited it. Nevertheless, do visit it if you get a chance. There’s even a website for the museum… Here’s what I could find out from there…

“It has 3485 listed antiquities of which 238 are displayed in the museum galleries, corridor, back side verandah and in the front entrance of the museum. The museum consists of four big galleries with a long stepped corridor displayed with various antiquities mainly related to tantric Buddhism. These are varied in nature and include small votive stupas, sculptures of different medium and dimensions in stone, bronze, ivory, copper and stone inscriptions, inscribed pot sherds, terracotta seals and sealings etc.

In gallery-1 the number of displayed antiquities are 25, amongst them mention may be made of stone images of Buddha, Avalokitesvara, Khasarpana, Manjusri, Tara-all belonging to 9th to 11th century AD. The gallery-2 includes sculptures of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, Jambhala, Tara in various postures, Vasudhara, Chunda and others. In gallery-3 as many as 81 antiquities are displayed in the wall show cases and the important are stupas depicting Buddha, Bodhisattvas, Aparajita, Ushnishavijaya. The number of displayed antiquities of gallery-4 is 80. The important displays of this gallery are inscribed pot-sherds, terracotta plaque depicting Buddha, monastic seal, copper plates and bronze images of Buddha, Krishna-Yamari, Tara and Manjusri.

There’s also a reserve collection consists of antiquities which include stone sculptural pieces, monolithic votive stupas, terracotta seals and sealings, bronze objects, glass bangles, all are found from the excavations of the site. The entrance gate is adorned with large sculptures of Avalokitesvara and Ashtamahabhaya-Tara.”

—–

The Ratnagiri Buddhist site is not only significant for its ancient structures but also for its role in the spread of Buddhism in ancient India. The site is believed to have been a major center for Buddhist learning and practice, and several important Buddhist scholars and monks are said to have visited the site. The site is also believed to have been an important center for the transmission of Buddhist art and architecture, which influenced the development of Buddhist art and architecture in other parts of India and Asia.

You can also take a video tour of the site through my footages

Ratnagiri Monaste ry Travel Guide

How to reach ratangiri monastery.

Ratnagiri Monastery is 29 KMs from Jajpur town and 79 KMs from Bhubaneswar, which is the main airport and railhead. Unlike Udayagiri, it’s an inhabited area, and you should find local transport too. However, these three major sites are usually visited together and so, it’s better to have a vehicle at your disposal. 

Ratnagiri Monastery Ticket Prices

Do note that tickets are different for Ratnagiri Buddhist Site and Ratnagiri Archaeological Museum.

Ticket for Ratnagiri Buddhist Site is INR 25 ($0.30) for Indian visitors as well as for people from SAARC and BIMSTEC countries but it is INR 300 ($3.6) for all other nationalities.

There is also an additional camera fee of INR 25. 

Entry is free for children below 15 years. 

Ticket for Ratnagiri Archaeological Museum is only INR 5 for everyone.

• Latest Posts

• Navigating the Finland Visa Application System from India: What You Need to Know - 2024/05/17
• The Ultimate Casino Tourism Companion: Tips and Tricks for Tourists - 2024/05/14
• How to Save on Private Jet Rental Costs: Fly Private for Less - 2024/05/08

Related Posts

Koraput Coffee: Blooming Brand, Bucolic Brew

Ganga Vilas -World’s Longest Crusie: All You Need to Know

Jajpur Tourism, Odisha: The Heart of Kalinga through Craft, Spirituality, and Archaeology

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Travel - Experience - Share

• Philippines
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• South America
• New Zealand
• Adventure Travel
• Culture & Heritage
• Sustainable & Responsible Travel
• Travel Products & Services
• Travel Tips
• Food & Restaurants
• Hotel & Resorts
• Travel Resources
• Published Work And Features
• Work with Us / Contact Us
• Search for: Search

Best Places To Visit In Jajpur District, Odisha – 3-Day Trip

Here are the best places to visit in the Jajpur district of Odisha, India including the famous Biraja temple and the Buddhist sites Ratnagiri and Udayagiri.

Jajpur in Odisha is truly a gem that is waiting to be discovered, as we found out on our visit to the heritage district. It is truly, Odisha’s best-kept secret. The architectural and engineering genius of the Konark Sun temple and the spiritual grandeur of Puri’s Jagannath Temple are well known, however, Jajpur awaits its moment in the sun. It is a place that you must visit, and here are the best places to visit in Jajpur and the best experiences that await you.

Jajpur has a timeless quality, it seems strangely connected to the glorious chapters of its rich heritage. The district seems to perfectly harmonize the past, present, and future. Here modern steel plants and shopping malls rub shoulders with ancient temples and ghats.

There is so much to see in Jajpur and lots to experience, Jajpur is indeed a compelling chapter in the story of Incredible India, that one must read.

Table of Contents

Places To Visit In Jajpur District, Odisha

Jajpur district in Odisha is studded with heritage sites related to Buddhism and Hinduism , there are ancient temples like the Biraja Shakti Peeth , and the Buddhist sites of Pushpagiri, Ratnagiri, and Udayagiri . The district is also home to a rich repository of arts, crafts, and culture. It is the home of the famed GI-Tag, Gopalpur Tussar Silk fabric , and also has a rich tradition of sculpture, painting, and handicrafts.

Jajpur which, in ancient times was the capital of Odisha, continues to be a thriving hub of culture, art, and craft, and a living museum of heritage .

If you are looking for weekend getaways from Bhubaneswar within 100 Kms or weekend getaways from Cuttack within 100 kms or if you are looking for places to visit near Bhubaneswar for a day trip or places to visit near Cuttack for a day trip, then you are in the right place to decide about the best places to visit in Jajpur District and also the best things to do in Jajpur.   

About Jajpur District And History Of Jajpur

Jajpur District Map

The attractions in Jajpur are many , however before we take you on an exhilarating journey of the popular destinations in Jajpur, it is necessary to get an orientation of the district. To understand its present, we need to delve into its history and beyond.

Jajpur finds mention in ancient Indian texts including the Skanda Purana and other Puranas as well as the great Indian epic, Mahabharata. Jajpur has been referred to variously as Viraja, Baitarini Tirtha, and Parvati Tirtha . These mentions substantiate the antiquity of the region. In terms of historical accounts, the chronicles of the 7th-century Chinese traveller, Hiuen Tsang or Xuanzang mention a great university or Mahavihara, which archaeological evidence now suggests existed in the Langudi Hills of Jajpur District.

Ancient Jajpur was also a powerful centre of Tantra Shastra which focused on the worship of Mother Goddesses and Yoginis . The existence of Biraja Temple or Viraja Kshetra , which is considered a Mahashakti Peeth points towards the widespread prevalence of Devi worship in the region. Biraja Temple is one of the 18 Shakti Peethas that are mentioned in Adi Shakaracharya’s Ashta Dasha Shakti Peetha Stotram.

Jajpur gained prominence in more recent times during the reign of the Somavamhsi Dynasty , also popularly referred to as the Keshari Dynasty . King Yayati I also known as Jajati Keshari established Jajpur as the capital of the Somvanshi Kingdom . The city was then known as Guheshvarapataka, and was renamed Abhinava Yayatinagara, or the, “new city of Yayati.” It is believed that during the reign of Jajati Keshari, thousands of Brahmins migrated from Kanauj and settled on the banks of the river Baitarni with the King’s patronage.

Many great temples came up in and around Jajpur during the reign of the Keshari dynasty and the Ganga dynasty. It is believed that Jajpur was home to more than a crore Shiva Lingas . Many Yajnas or sacrifices were performed and it is believed that King Jajati Keshari, himself, performed the Dashaashwamedha Yajna on the banks of the river Baitarini . The existence of the Dashashwamedha Ghat lends credence to this theory.

In more contemporary history, Jajpur became an independent district in 1993, prior to this it was part of the Cuttack district. However, Jajpur Municipality came into existence as early as 1869 , and the city celebrated 150 years of Jajpur Municipality in a grand manner with the Jajpur Mahotsav in 2020. Jajpur District too celebrated the silver jubilee of its birth in 2018.

The current District Magistrate of Jajpur is Shri Chakravarthi Singh Rathore, IAS, and his illustrious predecessors include the likes of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee , who was the author of the legendary, “ Anandmath ,” and Vande Mataram. Bankim Chandra Chatterjee was the District Magistrate of Jajpur between 1882 to 1884.

Here are the best places to visit in Jajpur district of Odisha, India including the famous Biraja temple and the Buddhist sites Ratnagiri and Udayagiri.

Places To Visit In Jajpur – Famous Temples In Jajpur

Jajpur District is a melting pot of religions that have existed and co-existed at different periods in history. Different branches of Hinduism including Vaishnavism, Shaivism, and Shaktism, have flourished here. The roots of Jainism and Buddhism too are firmly entrenched in the soil of Jajpur. It is no wonder, then, that the district is studded with ancient temples and sacred pilgrimage centres.

Biraja Mata Temple – Maha Shakti Peeth

Among the famous temples of Jajpur District, the Biraja temple is undoubtedly and almost literally, “The Mother of All Temples.” Here the Goddess Biraja Devi presides with her radiating luminescence. The Biraja temple is considered to be the most sacred and one of the best places to visit in Jajpur.

According to legend, Lord Brahma conducted a sacrifice on the banks of the river Baitarni, and out of the sacrificial fire, emerged Devi Parvati or Adishakti. She requested Brahma to name her as Biraja, she was in the form of a two-armed Mahishasuramardini. Brahma requested the divine power to sanctify the region with her presence.

Biraja Devi took her position near the banks of the Vaitarni river, and out of her energy emerged Nine Durgas, Eight Chandikas, and Sixty Four Yoginis. The presence of these divine energies made the Biraja Khetra, a Maha Shakti Peeth , that has been eulogized by the great Adi Shankaracharya in his Ashta Dasa Shakti Peetha Stotram.

In the main sanctum, the image of Biraja Devi is worshipped. However, within the temple complex, there are temples to Ganesh, Shiva, and other deities. One of the interesting features of the temple is the presence of a seemingly bottomless well, which is referred to as Nabhi Gaya . It is one of the sacred places in India for offering Pindas (oblations) to ancestors .

Maa Biraja Devi temple is a must-visit and one of the best places to visit in Jajpur.

Brahma Kund

There is a pond connected to the Biraja temple at a little distance from it. Traditionally all temples have an attached waterbody. This is known as the Brahma Kunda or Brahma’s Pond. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Brahma, once performed a Yagya in which the Goddess Girija Devi appeared from the sacrificial fire. The beautiful pond has ruined carvings on all four sides.

Dasaswamedh Ghat, Maa Baitarani, Jajpur

A pilgrimage to the Dasaswamedh Ghat is as important as a visit to the Biraja temple. Dasaswamedha Ghat, Jajpur, forms an integral part of any Jajpur itinerary. The Dashashwamedh Ghat reminds you of the ghat with the same name in Varanasi. The Dashashwamedh Ghat of Jajpur is inextricably linked with the mythology and history of the region. It is a Dasaswamedha ghat situated on the sacred Baitarani river .

It is believed that King Jajati Keshari had performed a Dasaswamedh Yagna , here, and hence the name. There are many ancient temples near the Ghats.

Saptamatruka Temple

The Saptamatrika temple stands on the southern bank of the Baitarani river, near the Dasaswamedh Ghat in Jajpur . It is a temple dedicated to the Seven Mother Goddesses, who are the female counterparts of the Male Gods, or the manifestation of their Shakti or energy.

Though the temple is known as Saptamatruka temple, you will actually find the images of Asthamatruka or 8 mother goddesses. The deities worshipped here are, Chamunda, Barahi, Indrani, Vaishnavi, Brahmi, Koumari, Maheshwari, and Narasinhi .

It is believed that the deities were installed by King Yayati Keshari after he had performed the grand Dashashwamedh Yagna here. The temple overlooks the Baitarini river and has the idols of the Matrikas arranged in a line, with separate doors, facing the river. There is a small temple to Ganesh just behind the sanctum of the Saptamatrukas.

Jagannatha Temple, Dasasvamedha Ghat, Jajpur Town

A serene structure in white, built in the typical Nagara style of temple architecture is the Jagannath Temple , which is located on the way to the Dasashwamedh Ghat in Jajpur. The temple is built atop a platform known as Jayati and consists of Mandapas and the Garbagriha. Beautiful images of Lord Jagannath, along with Bhalabhadra, and Subhadra, grace the sanctum.

Varahanatha Temple | Yajna Varaha Temple

The Baraha temple is a historic temple which is located on the opposite bank of the Dashashwamedh Ghat. The temple is dedicated to the Varaha avatar of Vishnu and is believed to have been built in the 15th or 16th century. The Indian Bhakti saint Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is believed to have visited this temple after visiting Puri.

The Varaha temple is the central temple in a cluster of temples that have stood the test of time and the vagaries of nature. The Jaganmohana or the main hall of the Varaha temple has a beautiful domed ceiling. In the sanctum, there are two images of Varaha, along with images of Lakshmi and Jagannath. The Barahanath temple is one of the famous temples in Jajpur.

There are many ancient and more recent temples within the Varaha temple complex. There are temples of Surya Narayan or Sun God, Lakshmi Narayan, Shiva, and other deities.

Chandikhol Chandi Temple

The Chandikhole Chandi temple is among the best attractions in Jajpur District. This temple to Chandi or Chandika, the fierce form of Shakti is located on the Barunei Hill, some 40 kilometres from Jajpur city. The temple which was established by Baba Bhairabananda Brahmachari is set in the midst of picturesque surroundings.

Chhatia Bata Jagannath Temple

Chhatia Bata Temple is a unique Jagannath temple that dates back to the 12th century and is located mid-way between Jajpur city and Bhubaneshwar. The temple’s uniqueness lies in the fact that apart from the main deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, the temple is also dedicated to the Kalki avatar of Vishnu . The Kalki avatar is of course the future avatar of Vishnu prophesied to take place in the Kalyuga.

Jajpur district is where you are sure to come upon temples, known and unknown, almost around every turn in the road. If you are passionate about ancient temples, then you should spend more than 3 days in Jajpur and embark on a temple-hunting spree.

Some of the other temples that you can include in your Jajpur exploration are the Siddheshwar Temple, Jajpur; Trilochaneshwar Temple;  Jagannath Temple, Garhmadhupur; Gokarneswar Temple, Jamubania, Jajpur, and Mahavinayak Temple, Jajpur district.

Buddhist Heritage Of Jajpur – Buddhist Circuit

Buddhism took root in Odisha, even before the epoch-making Kalinga War of Ashoka. There are important Buddhist sites scattered across the length and breadth of Odisha. Jajpur is also home to important Buddhist sites, two points of the famous Diamond Triangle Of Buddhism of Odisha are in Jajpur district. These are Ratnagiri , and Udayagiri .

In fact, it is even believed, that Buddha’s first two lay disciples who were the merchant brothers, Tapusa and Bhallika , may have been from Jajpur!

They were given the sacred hair of Buddha as relics, which they took with them and had a Stupa built, which was known as Kesh Stupa , and the remains of this may exist in Dharmasala, Jajpur.

Ratnagiri Monastery, Jajpur

The Buddhist site of Ratnagiri is easily one of the top tourist attractions near Jajpur. Ratnagiri along with Udaygiri and Lalitgiri form what is famous as the Diamond triangle of Buddhism in Odisha . Ratnagiri is the site where the ruins of a Buddhist Mahavihara have been excavated. The monastery is believed to have been built from the 5th century CE onwards and has its origins during the rule of the Gupta dynasty. The Mahavihara is said to have been active till about the 13th century. The Ratnagiri Buddhist monastery is located about 35 kilometres from Jajpur city.

Three monasteries have been excavated, and exquisite sculptures and doorways that have survived tell the story of an era when the monastery must have resonated with Buddhist chants and the animated chatter of monks engaged in debate. The site is strewn with Votive Stupas and is still only partially excavated.

Some of the sights not to be missed when at the Ratnagiri Buddhist site include a beautiful standing relief panel of Vajrapani at the entrance gate along with exquisite motifs done in Blue-Chlorite stone. Also awe-inspiring are the massive heads of Buddha that one can see inside the monastery complex.

One can only imagine the magnificence of the Buddha statues when they would have stood tall and erect. The statue of a sitting Buddha flanked by Padmapani and Vajrapani, can be seen intact inside the main shrine.

For those with a keen interest in Buddhist history and heritage, as well as archaeology, Ratnagiri would definitely be one of the best places to visit in Jajpur District Odisha , literally a treasure trove of history.

Archaeological Museum At Ratnagiri

Museums are windows to the past and ASI has set up many museums across the country to house the relics of ancient India. The sculptural and epigraphic remains of the Ratnagiri Buddhist sites as well as other sites in the vicinity are housed in the 3-storeyed Archaeological Museum Ratnagiri, which is managed by the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India).

The museum comprises four galleries spread across three floors. The exhibits include a wide range of antiquities from between the 5th century CE to the 13th Century CE. You can see Votive Stupas, sculptures of varying sizes and sizes, inscriptions on copper and stone, remains of pottery, vessels, coins, and much more. A visit to the Ratnagiri Archaeological Park is sure to bring alive the Buddhist monastery of Ratnagiri alive in front of you.

Udayagiri Buddhist Complex, Jajpur

Udayagiri Buddhist complex is located around 35 kilometres from Jajpur city and is the second vertex of the Diamond triangle of Buddhism in Odisha. Along with Ratnagiri and Lalitgiri, it forms what is almost a perfect Isosceles triangle. In terms of dating, it is believed to be the latest of the three sites, having existed between the 7th century CE and 12th Century CE.

Udayagiri is spread across a vast area covered with woods and framed by hills. It is believed to be the site of an ancient Buddhist monastery named Madhavapura Vihara . Though a large portion of the Udayagiri Buddhist complex is yet to be excavated, what has been excavated gives an idea of the sheer size and grandeur of one of the great Buddhist Mahavihara of ancient times.

Two monastic complexes, and a large number of Stupas of different sizes, and sculptures have been excavated and can be seen at the site.

Do not miss the following, when you visit Udayagiri Buddhist complex in Jajpur. Lookout for, an exquisite sculpture of a standing Padmapani, a Bodhisattva who is a form of Avalokitesvara. Also, look out for the sculpture of a sitting Buddha, and the fine carvings at the entrance gate to the monastery, which has been named Udayagiri-II.

The carvings include intricate motifs and also human figures including a female dancer, and another human figure on a swing with eyes closed with an ecstatic expression.

Pushpagiri Vihara At Langudi Hills

Till recently it was believed that probably Udayagiri, Ratnagiri, and Lalitgiri were part of the great university or Mahavihara described by the Chinese traveller, Hiuen Tsang as Pushpagiri Vihara. However, excavations at Langudi Hill, some 35 kilometres from Jajpur, have uncovered the remains of what seems to have been the Pushpagiri Mahavihara described by Hiuen Tsang.

The site has been marked as Langudi Buddhist Archaeological Site by the ASI, and excavation is still to be undertaken on a large scale.

It is believed that Pushpagiri was one of the great universities of ancient India along with Nalanda, Takshashila, and others. It is believed to have been active between the 3rd Century CE and the 11th Century CE. Ruins of Stupas, including one which is believed to have been installed by Emperor Ashoka himself, have been found at the site. An inscription in the Brahmi script identifies the site as Pushpa Sabha Giriya or a hill filled with flowers.

Other Important Places To Visit In And Around Jajpur | Places To Visit In Jajpur District Odisha

Jajpur district is a place where heritage rushes to meet you seemingly, everywhere. However, it is equally blessed with natural beauty and is covered with verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, shimmering lakes and meandering rivers. Here are a couple of tourist places near Jajpur Road, that you must include in your Jajpur itinerary.

Kusuma Pond and Park, Jajpur

The Kusuma Pond and Park is one of the most popular places in the heart of Jajpur city. Come evenings it transforms into a resplendent jewel, attracting locals and tourists alike. It is spread across a massive area of 27 acres and includes a water body where boating is available, musical fountains, and a park.

The park is studded with seventy different varieties of flowers and features well-maintained walkways and lawns. The place is brilliantly illuminated in the evenings and provides a spectacular visual experience. The place is impeccably maintained by the Jajpur Municipal authorities.

Ashokjhar Waterfall, Sukinda, Jajpur

Waterfalls have a special magic, the sound of water cascading down always has a soothing effect that never fails to lift the spirit and rejuvenate the mind. One such waterfall is the Ashokjhar Waterfall located near Sukinda in the Jajpur district. Sukinda is known for its Chromium deposits and silkworm rearing.

The Ashokjhar Waterfall is located about 8 kilometres from the town of Sukinda, and about 71 kilometres from Jajpur City. It is a beautiful place nestled in the midst of nature and is also great for trekking. The waterfall cascades down from near the roots of an Ashoka tree and that is how the waterfall gets its name.

Things To Do In Jajpur – Experience Art, Craft, Culture, Cuisine

Jajpur is a mesmerizing mosaic of experiences, there is so much to experience in the district, that there is never going to be a dull moment when you are there. An important aspect of Jajpur is its intangible heritage in the form of a rich tradition in music and dance, arts and crafts, and of course cuisine.

To get an immersive feel of the culture of Jajpur District, it is necessary to travel to its villages for an authentic experience, and what better place to visit than the village of Gopalpur, which is a hub of arts and crafts?

Visit Gopalpur Tussar Silk Weaving Centre

If you are in Jajpur, there is no way, you are going to miss the signature Gopalpur Tussar Silk fabric , which has a GI tag . Seeing the making of the famous Gopalpur Tussar Silk sarees and other fabrics in one of the weaving centres in Gopalpur is an experience in itself.

You can also buy the fabrics from the weavers themselves, when you are there and also interact with them. After all, there is much more to the fabric than mere thread. The fabrics have the history and culture of the people woven into them. Buying a Tussar silk fabric from the weavers directly should be one of the top things to do in Jajpur and thereby help and promote sustainable tourism.

Visit Golden Grass Craft Centre At Antia Village

The village of Antia, about 35 kilometres from Jajpur city is knitting a silent revolution. Its women are silently threading the golden grass which grows wild on the riverbanks into beautiful baskets, hats, showpieces , and much more. The craft utilizes the artistic skills of the women and fuels the local economy. It is a wonderful experience to watch women of different age groups sitting together in their colourful attire, patiently and meticulously giving shape to their dreams.

Experience Odia Music

Music has been the soul of the land of Odisha, since time immemorial. From the esoteric chants of the Vedas to the soulful singing of wandering minstrels, Odisha has music in its DNA. Jajpur is where you can experience the entrancing songs of Yogis singing songs of devotion to the accompaniment of the Kendara, Odisha’s own musical instrument . The sounds of Kendara Gita resonate through the villages and towns of the district.

Experience Odia Cuisine At Odianee

The cuisine of Odisha is sure to surprise you with its sheer range and variety, not to forget its delectable desserts. Odianee is a restaurant that serves authentic local cuisine in Jajpur district, located near the town of Panikoili on NH-16, some 10 kilometres from Jajpur City.

Though the restaurant serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, vegetarians need not be disappointed as a bonanza awaits them. We were swamped with more than 10 different and even exotic types of curry along with rice and Chapatis.

The desserts served included mouth-watering dishes like Kakara and Sijha Manda, as well as Rabri . The food was excellent and changed all preconceived notions about Odia cuisine. If you are in Jajpur, do make it a point to head to Odianee for some pure and authentic Odia food .

What To Eat In Jajpur

Are you thinking about vegetarian food, Odia cuisine is full of tasty vegetarian fare and delicious desserts. Jajpur is the place where you can experience the authentic taste, flavours, and aromas of Odissa. Some of the dishes that you must try are:

• Chenna Poda
• Sijha Manda
• Nolan Gur Rosgolla
• Nolan Gur Icecream

Images of Jajpur

Here are some images that bring alive the vibes of the Jajpur district.

Best Time To Visit Jajpur

Jajpur can be visited any time of the year, but the best months to visit are from around October to February, as the weather will be pleasant. Summers are bound to be hot and hence not that comfortable for sightseeing.

However, for people looking for weekend getaways from Bhubaneswar within 200 Kms or weekend getaways from Cuttack within 200 Kms, throughout the year, there are many things to do in Jajpur and many places to visit in and around Jajpur.

Weather In Jajpur | Temperature In Jajpur

In the summer months, between March to June, the climate of Jajpur is hot and also humid. Summer temperatures can rise to over 40 degrees centigrade. Winters are mild and the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

Tips For Visiting | Information To Help You Plan Your Visit

• Odia is the main language spoken in Jajpur District, but Hindi is followed everywhere
• Afternoons can be quite sunny even during winter, so make sure you have protection against the sun
• Jajpur involves a lot of walking, especially in the Buddhist sites, so be prepared accordingly and travel with good footwear, shades, and headgear
• Carry your refillable water bottle
• There is an entry ticket to visit Ratnagiri
• Carry your camera or mobile phone to click photos
• It is advisable to hire a guide for visiting the monuments
• Dress modestly while visiting the temples
• Click  here  to check out good restaurants in the area
• The weather between October to February is cool and the best time to travel
• One would require a minimum of 2 days to 3 days to cover all the places of interest
• Booking a cab either from Bhubaneswar or Cuttack would be ideal for visiting the places within this region
• You can buy Tussar silk from the weavers and golden grass handicraft items directly from the artisans to help sustain tourism

How To Reach Jajpur

Jajpur is a municipality and a district in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. Jajpur was the capital of the Keshari or Somavamshi Dynasty which ruled over the region between the 9th and 12th centuries CE. It is a district rich in heritage, art, craft, and culture. Click here for a route map from Bhubaneswar to Jajpur in Odisha.

• Bhubaneswar to Jajpur distance is about 100 kilometres
• Cuttack to Jajpur distance is about 76 kilometres
• Puri to Jajpur distance is about 153 kilometres
• The Konark Sun Temple is about 154 kilometres from Jajpur

Reaching Jajpur By Air

The nearest airport to Jajpur is the Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneshwar, from where you can get flights to and from places like Delhi , Bangalore , Mumbai , Chennai, etc., From Bhuvaneshwar you can easily travel to Jajpur by road.

Reaching Jajpur By Train

The nearest railway station to Jajpur is the Jajpur-Keonjhar Railway Station near Byasnagar. The station is near Jajpur Road, where most of the hotels are located.

Reaching Jajpur By Road

Jajpur is well connected with a good network with other cities and towns of Odisha including Bhubaneshwar, Cuttack, and Puri.

If you are planning a visit to  Jajpur , you can book your flight tickets right here through Cleartrip  or Makemytrip  or  CheapAir  or  Priceline and fly to Bhubaneswar. If you are thinking of a road trip , do check out the rental car options.

Where To Stay In Jajpur

Jajpur Road is a highly-developed area near Jajpur town and has many hotels that offer luxury accommodations. We stayed at a lovely and comfortable hotel called Jajati Courtyard. We were lucky to experience its hospitality, even before its official opening.

If you are planning to book any of the hotels in Jajpur or anywhere else in Odisha, India you can book right here –  TripAdvisor  or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Places To Visit In Jajpur District Odisha – FAQ

Where is Jajpur?

Jajpur is a city and district in the state of Odisha and makes for great weekend trips from Bhubaneshwar as well as great weekend trips from Cuttack.

What is famous in Jajpur District?

Jajpur district is famous for its rich heritage, arts, crafts, and culture. It is home to the GI tag Gopalpur Tussar Silk Fabric, and also to the Buddhist sites of Ratnagiri and Udayagiri. The famous Biraja Devi Shakti Peeth is also located in Jajpur.

What is special in Jajpur?

Jajpur was an ancient centre of Tantra and one of the 18 Mahashakti Peeths, the Biraja temple or Biraja Kshetra is located here.

Why is Jajpur Road famous?

Jajpur Road near the town of Jajpur has seen a lot of recent development. Many shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels have come up here. The place is also close to the Jajpur-Keonjhar railway station.

Which food is famous in Jajpur Odisha?

Authentic Odia food is available in Jajpur. Some of the Odia food that you must eat while in Jajpur include the famous Kakra Pitha.

Which temple is famous in Jajpur?

Jajpur District and Jajpur city are both full of ancient and sacred temples. The most famous of these is the Biraja temple in Jajpur city, which is a Shakti Peeth.

Why Biraja temple is famous?

Biraja temple is one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas and is a sacred and powerful temple, known as Biraja Khetra.

What is Biraja Khetra?

The Biraja Khetra or Biraja Temple is an ancient temple to the Goddess Biraja Devi or Girija Devi, a form of Parvati or Durga. It is one of the 18 Maha Shakti peeths eulogised by Adi Shankaracharya, himself in his Ashta Dasha Shakti Peetha stotram.

Which river is near Biraja Temple?

The river Baitarani or Vaitarani flows near the Biraja Temple of Jajpur.

Which river flows in Jajpur?

The river Baitarani flows through Jajpur.

What is the old name of Jajpur?

Jajpur in ancient times has been variously known as Vaitarani Tirtha, Varaha Tirtha, Biraja Tirtha, Parvati Tirtha, and Yayatinagara.

Who built the Biraja temple at Jajpur?

Mythologically the Biraja temple was established by Brahma himself, and the Biraja Kshetra is an ancient temple. The first reference to the temple is found in the Mahabharata. However, the idol in its current form may date back to the 4th century when it was installed by the kings of the Gupta dynasty. A temple was built during the 10th or 11th centuries by the Somavamshi ruler Yayati II.

Who is the famous king of Jajpur?

The famous king of Jajpur is the Somavamshi ruler Jajati Keshari who ruled during the 10th century.

Which part of Sati fell in Jajpur?

It is believed that the Navel or Nabhi of Sati fell at Jajpur, and hence it is considered as one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peeths.

Is there any Shakti Peeth in Odisha?

Of the 18 Astadasha Maha Shakti Peethas, one is in Odisha, this is the Biraja Temple in Jajpur.

Why is Biraja famous?

Biraja is famous as one of the Maha Shakti Peethas, it is also known as Biraja Kshetra, Vaitarani Tirtha, and Biraja Khetra.

Jajpur is a saga of India’s heritage. It is the land where the wind whispers stories from long-forgotten chapters of history. It is also a fast-developing hub of commerce while being rooted in tradition and culture. It is a place that has a unique ethos, hard to find anywhere else. We hope that this post about things to do in Jajpur – places to visit in Jajpur succeeds in conveying at least a part of this ethos.

Jajpur needs to be experienced with all the senses, for which you would need to get there. And when you do get there, we hope this post comes in handy as a Jajpur tourist destination guide.

Were you aware of the rich heritage of Jajpur and its arts, craft, and culture? Do let us know your thoughts through the comments section.

Subscribe to our blog to be the first to know when we publish a new post. Follow our travels by connecting with us on our social media handles.

Our visit to the District of Jajpur in Odisha was part of a familiarization trip organized by the Jajpur District Administration . The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are our own. #Jajpurodisha #HACTJajpur #visitjajpur #Odishatourism #UNWTO #jajpur #Odisha

Are you planning a last-minute Holiday? Below are some useful resources to help you book flights, hotels, and tours! And also clothes, luggage and accessories for your trip!

Flights –   Cleartrip  or Makemytrip  or  IndiGo  or  Cheapair  or Priceline

Tours –  Click to book top tours around the world . Book tours and activities here .

Experiences – Book your next unforgettable experience here , with flexible bookings and free cancellations. Reserve tours and activities now and pay later.

Hotels – Click to book the best hotels/resorts . Choose the best stay options with TripAdvisor  or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda

Travel Insurance – Click to book Travel Insurance that covers a range of travel insurance and safety services including medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more

Visas and Travel Documents Application – Click here for Online Travel Visa Check

Online Passport Photo – Get Your Passport Photo Online here

Do You Love Traveling?

Do you want to know how to travel the world? We have put together a very useful travel resources page with the best travel tips . Go check it out now. Thanks for visiting our site Voyager - imvoyager.com  and taking the time to read this post! If you wish to collaborate/work with us then reach us at [email protected] We’d love it if you’d comment by sharing your thoughts on this post and share this post on social media and with your friends. Follow our journey on our social media channels: Facebook   X   Instagram   Pinterest   YouTube 

Start dreaming about your next adventure with Tripadvisor . Book your next unforgettable experience here  with flexible bookings and free cancellations.

60+ Million Users Trust TripAdvisor With Their Travel Plans. Shouldn't You?

Explore these posts:

9 thoughts on “best places to visit in jajpur district, odisha – 3-day trip”.

Both are my favorite places for short trips. And I liked that you had covered all the details. The accommodation ones are my most favorite.

Very nicely written post and very detailed also. I just wish we had more time to explore Jajpur at each of its gems. There’s so much to see !

Thanks to you guys, I now have Jajpur on my list. I had never heard of this place before but now I want to visit it as soon as I can. This is a detailed list and itinerary that I can follow, bookmarking this.

Orissa is so rich in terms of Art and heritage. Jajpur is among one of the most endowed regions of the state. I feel good that I have visited many of the places that you mention. I would also like to add that the nearby Khandagiri caves are very interesting too.

I first read it as “Jaipur” and thought, Jaipur in Odisha? Then I read carefully again & it was Jajpur. You always bring the most unique & unseen places of India & we get to know so much about it.

Amazing details about Jajpur You described everything in detail. Everything from where to go to where to stay to how to get there is covered. I am saving it for my Odisha trip. Without a doubt, the ideal itinerary.

Wow what a through research put in all your posts. I wasn’t aware about JaJpur. Good to know about a place that has historical value , can’t miss this place. Will add in my bucket list for sure.

I first thought it was a typo error for Jaipur in Odissa, but how!! But then how wrong my perception was – Jajpur is genuinely a surprise package. What a spectacular place, thank you so much guys for making India known for its hidden marvels.

Jajpur in odisha seems to be a great place . Love the abundance of heritage sites that make the trip to Jajpur all the more exciting.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Enquiry Now

01 People 02 People 03 People 04 People 05 People 06 People 07 People 08 People 09 People 10 People More than 10 People

• +91 9938423720, 8895175420

[email protected]

• Ratnagiri Lalitgiri and Udayagiri

Home » Monuments in Odisha » Ratnagiri Lalitgiri and Udayagiri

Lalitgiri, Udayagiri, Ratnagiri- The Diamond Triangle of Odisha

Buddhism comes to Odisha during the 7 th century. It’s believed that Lord Buddha who is main preacher of Buddhism never visited Odisha but it is bought to Odisha by visit of Hiuen Tsang. Buddhism continued its influence till 15 th century during which many Stupas and monarchs were built which we can find now. The Buddhism findings become more prominent when scientist got proof of it in excavating Lalitgiri, Udayagiri, Ratnagiri. Those are popularly called Diamond Tingle of Odisha .  

Tourism in Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri and Udayagiri

Lalitgiri is situated at Mahanga Tehsil in Cuttack district. It is surrounded by Parabhadi and Landa sandstone hills. During excavation work at Lalitgiri huge stupas were unearthed. They also found a casket which has fossils of Buddha. In Lalitgiri they found four monasteries which depict the Buddhist culture. It also has different images of Lord Buddha in different meditation position. All these things were kept in museum which is constructed in Lalitgiri itself.

Ratnagiri is situated at Jajpur district of Odisha along the banks of Brahmani and Birupa river. It is also called as Jewel hill. The excavation work given the different color stones which are invaluable in it. In Ratnagiri three monarchies, several stupas also present. Different sculptures of the dancer, a royal lady , a women meditating and many more are earthen out which is kept in display.

Udaygiri is largest among the other two Buddhist places which have monasteries and stupas. After excavation work at Udayagiri numerous statues of Buddha, monarchies, Tara and many earthenware things were discovered.  These things are kept in a display for the tourist who comes from all over India and outside India.

How to reach

By Air: Nearest airport is Bhubaneswar

By Railway : Nearest railway station is Bhubaneswar

By Road : Lalitgiri, Udayagiri and Ratnagiri are well connected by national highways so one can reach there without any difficulty.

For more information please contact us at

+91 9938423720

• History of Odisha
• Art and Culture in Odisha
• Activities in Odisha
• Best time to visit Odisha
• How to reach Odisha
• People of Odisha
• Dress and Food in Odisha
• Languages in Odisha
• Tribal Villages in Odisha
• Odisha Travel Guide
• Climate in Odisha
• Handicrafts of Odisha
• Odissi Dance
• Tribes in Odisha
• Religion in Odisha
• Golden Triangle Tours Odisha
• Holiday Tour Packages Odisha
• Tribal Tours in Odisha
• Wildlife Tours in Odisha
• Temple Tours in Odisha
• Royal Destinations of Odisha
• Gangasagar with Odisha Tour
• Puri and Gangasagar Tour
• Odisha Tribal Villages Tour
• Honeymoon Tours in Odisha
• Beach Tours in Odisha
• Family Tours in Odisha
• Village Tours in Odisha
• Adventure Tours in Odisha
• Bhubaneswar Temple Tours
• Puri Tourism
• Konark Tourism
• Bhubaneswar Tourism
• Chilika Tourism
• Cuttack Tourism
• Gopalpur Tourism
• Rourkela Tourism
• Sambalpur Tourism
• Koraput Tourism
• Gopalpur Beach
• Chandipur Beach
• Paradip Port and Beach
• Chandrabhaga Beach
• Dolphin at Chilika Lake Satapada
• Bhitarkanika National Park
• Satkosia Tiger Reserve
• Simlipal National Park
• Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary
• Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
• Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary
• Nandankanan Zoological Park
• Konark Sun Temple
• Puri Jagannath Temple
• Lingaraj Temple
• Mukteswar Temple
• Dhabaleswar Temple
• Kapilash Temple
• Panchalingeswar Temple
• Gupteswar Cave
• Kalijai Temple
• Cuttack Chandi Temple
• Dhauli Hill
• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
• Odisha State Museum
• Odisha Tribal Museum
• Odisha Maritime Museum
• Netaji Birth Place Museum
• Devkund Waterfall
• Saptasajya Waterfall
• Duduma Waterfalls
• Khandadhar Falls
• Joranda Falls
• Tribal Village at Koraput
• Raghurajpur Artist Village Puri
• Hirakud Dam
• Pipili Applique Craft
• Daringbadi – Hill Station in Odisha
• Olive Ridley Turtle Odisha
• Atri – Hot Water Springs
• Ekamra Haat Bhubaneswar
• Lulung Forest Lodge Simlipal
• Car Rental in Bhubaneswar
• Car Rental in Puri
• Car Rental in Konark
• Hotels in Bhubaneswar
• Hotels in Puri
• Hotels in Konark
• Hotels in Cuttack
• Hotels in Gopalpur
• Hotels in Berhampur
• Hotels in Paradip
• Hotels in Rourkela
• Ratha Yatra Puri
• Konark Dance Festival
• Puri Beach Festival
• Odisha Tribal Festivals
• Odisha Sand Art Festival
• Bahuda Yatra Puri
• Makar Sankranti
• Chandan Yatra
• Kalinga Mahotsava
• Kalinga Bali Yatra

Places to Visit in Ratnagiri- The Jewel of the Konkan Coastline

• Travel Tips
• December 23, 2019 in City Tours , Travel Tips
• Maharastra Tourism Places to visit in Ratnagiri Ratnagiri Beaches

Introduction

Situated along with the Arabian Sea coast, Ratnagiri is a port city in the District of Ratnagiri. This city is located in southern Maharashtra and is home to a number of beaches of the Konkan Coastline. Ratnagiri is an ancient city and there are a lot of places to discover. If you want to know about places to visit in Ratnagiri, then we are going to list down a few places which you should definitely visit when visiting Ratnagiri. This city has a rich history as it was ruled by the famous Maratha Ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji. Later the British took over the city. This city has an influence of both Western and Eastern architecture.

Find Best Hotels In Ratnagiri

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Ratnagiri is located on the coast of Arabian Sea, therefore, summers are really hot and humid. The best time to visit this place is during the winter, that is, from November to February. During this time the temperature is very pleasant and is perfect for sightseeing. If you want to experience the flora and fauna of this place, then monsoon season will be a better choice to visit. The monsoon season begins in June and continues till September.

Places to Visit in Ratnagiri

• Bhatye Beach
• Mandavi Beach
• Marine Aquarium & Museum
• Thiba Palace/Thibaw Palace
• Ratnadurg Fort
• Ganeshgule Beach & Temple

1. Bhatye Beach

Bhatye beach is a beautiful beach located Bhatye area of the Ratnagiri district. This beach is located 3 km from the Ratnagiri Bus Stand. This beach falls under the Kokan coast of Maharashtra and is one of the major places to visit in Ratnagiri. This beach is one of the most reputed beaches of the Konkan coastline. The length of this beach is 1.5 km and unlike other beaches, this one has a straight and flat coastline. The beach is famous for its panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountain ranges in the background. The unique feature of this beach is the creek which separates the Mandvi beach from the Bhaye Beach. If you are a nature lover, then you would love this place. During the sunset, you can experience a spectacular view of the blue water, silver sands, and casuarina trees along the beach.

From this beach, you can see the Mandavi Beach and Ratnagiri Lighthouse. Apart from the scenic view which this beach has to offer, there is a temple of Zari Vinayak located at the end of it. This beach is a popular picnic spot for families and tourists. There is also an agricultural research center which researches on coconut near the Bhatye Beach. You can also indulge in activities like horse and camel riding when you visit this place. Also, you can get delicious seafood, chats and coconut water along the beach.

2. Mandavi Beach

Mandavi Beach is next to the Bhatye beach and is only 2 km away from the Ratnagiri Bus Stand. This beach is located along the Konkan coastline. This beach is in the heart of the Ratnagiri district in Maharashtra. This beach is one of the most happening and crowded places in Ratnagiri. The famous Rajiwanda Port is located at the end of this Beach. Mandavi Beach offers a beautiful and smooth beach where one can come and unwind. The Arabian Sea is on the south of the beach and on the west of the beach is the Ratnadurg Fort. The unique feature of this beach is that it has black sand and hence is referred to as the Black Sea. This beach has a bastion at the entrance and hence it is called the gateway to Ratnagiri.

The Gateway of Ratnagiri is also equipped with a Jetty. This jetty is known as the Ratnagiri jetty. The Bastion is equipped with a sloped roof. This amazing structure was built by Pratinidhi Dhondu Bhaskar and is one of the most beautiful places in Ratnagiri. The design of this gateway is beautiful and one can enjoy a stroll during the dusk and enjoy the cool breeze of the sea. 

3. Marine Aquarium & Museum

Located on the Ratnagiri – Bhagwati Mandir Road, the Marine Aquarium & Museum is one of the major attractions of Ratnagiri Town. This museum is located next to Mandavi Beach. In 1985, this beautiful Marine Museum was created by the Marine Biological Research Station of Ratnagiri. This museum cum aquarium shelters some of the rare species of marine animals. These specimens are Lionfish, Sea turtles, Triggerfish, Lobsters, Sea horse fish, Sea cucumbers, sea snakes, Eels, Starfish, and many more.The museum also hosts an enormous structure of wall skeleton which measure up to 55 feet in length and 5000 kg in weight.  This massive structure awes everyone whoever visits this museum.

Since people love coming to this museum and it has become one of the most demanded tourist places in Ratnagiri, the museum has recently made a new section based on freshwater aquariums. This section has plenty of freshwater fish and plants. Few freshwater specimens which are displayed in this section are crabs, shrimps, aquatic plants, barbs, turtles, Cichlids, prawns, etc.

Timing:  10 AM to 5 PM every day.

Entry Fee: Rs. 3 for kids and Rs. 5 for adults.

4. Thiba Palace/Thibaw Palace

Thiba Palace is one of the major tourist attractions in Ratnagiri. This is a historical building which is situated 2 Km from the Ratnagiri Bus Stand on a small hill. This building has an interesting history attached to it. King Thibaw of Myanmar (Burma) was sent to exile in Ratnagiri by the British in the early 1900s. For this, the British built this house in 1910, where the King could be kept under house arrest. This palace was used by the King until his death from 1910 to 1916.

This historic building has 3 stories and has a sloping roof. The palace is equipped with windows which are semi-circular in shape and has carvings on it.  These windows are the primary reason why tourists come to visit this place. On the first floor of the palace, there is a dancing hall with marble flooring. On the back of the palace, there is a statue of Lord Buddha which was bought by King Thibaw himself. The palace is renovated on a regular basis and is maintained by ASI. The palace also has a museum which displays all the artifacts and items used by king Thibaw.Near the palace is a viewpoint called the Thiba Point. From this viewpoint, you can see the beautiful Bhatye Bridge, Someshwar creek and the majestic Arabian Sea. If you visit this viewpoint during the sunset, then you can surely witness complete bliss and serenity.

Timings: The palace is opened to tourists from 9 am to 6 PM

5. Ratnadurg Fort

The Ratnadurg Fort is located on the coastline of the mighty Arabian Sea. This fort is 4 km from the Ratnagiri bus stand is one of the major tourist attractions in this place. This fort is also one of the most famous forts in Maharashtra as well. Built in the 16th century, the fort was one of the monuments built by Bahamani Sultans. In 1670 AD, Chhatrapati Shivaji and Adilshah captured the fort. It was controlled by Kanhoji Angre and was later presented to the Peshwas. At the end in 1818 AD, the British seized this fort from the Peshwas.

The Fort is uniquely built with several bastions and tunnels. There is a tunnel which connects the lower and upper parts of the fort. There are many bastions which known as Khamakya Rede, Markya, Ganesh, Vagha, Baskya and Vetal. The fort symbolizes strength as it was built in such a way that it can withstand the force of the waves of the Arabian Sea. Till today the walls are still intact, thereby, showing how strong the design of the fort is. The fort is also called Bhagawati Fort because of the presence of a Bhagawati Goddess’s idol inside it. Every year devotees celebrate the festival of Navaratri at the temple situated in the fort. The fort is also home to temples of Ganesh and Hanuman.

6. Ganeshgule Beach & Temple

Ganeshgule Beach is situated in the Ganeshgule village. This village is 21 km from Ratnagiri. This beach is one of the most visited places in Ratnagiri.  The Ganeshgule Beach is also considered as one of the most serene beaches in Maharashtra. This beach is 1.5 km long and is known for its amazing sunset views. The sides of the beach is surrounded by mountains and the white sand and rocky terrain makes it a perfect place to unwind yourself. You can swim in this beach and get some tan by sun bathing. There are also many water sport activities like diving, snorkeling which you can try out. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride while visiting this beautiful beach.

Ratnagiri is a place where you can enjoy nature as well known about the history of the place. There are many places to visit in Ratnagiri and is perfect for a family vacation and the numerous beaches also provide a place to unwind and destress yourself. So, if you are tired of your mundane life, then visit Ratnagiri to charge up your dried up batteries.

P.s. You might like these related resources:

• Western Ghats via Toy Train- Trip to Matheran Maharashtra!
• Places to Visit in Maharashtra to Experience the City’s History and Culture!
• Diveagar Beach – What To Know Before You Go!
• SHARE THIS ON:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Book a hotel

• City Select Cities Agra Ahmedabad Alwar Amritsar Aurangabad Autumn Badrinath Bangalore Bathinda Bhopal Bhubaneswar Bihar Chandigarh Chennai Coimbatore Coorg Darjeeling Dehradun Delhi Dhanushkodi Dharamshala Dwarka Gangtok Garba Ghaziabad Goa Gujarat Gurgaon Guwahati Himachal Pradesh Himalaya Hyderabad India Indore Jaipur Jamshedpur Jodhpur Karnataka Kashmir Kedarnath Kerala Kochi Kodaikanal Kolkata Kotagiri Kullu Leh Ladakh Lonavala Lucknow Madhya Pradesh Madurai Mahabaleshwar Maharashtra Manali Manesar Mathura Mount Abu Mumbai Munnar Mussoorie Nagpur Nainital New Delhi Noida Odisha Ooty Patna Pondicherry Pune Puri Raigad Raipur Rajasthani Ranchi Rishikesh Shillong Shimla sikkim Siliguri Srinagar Surat Tamil Nadu Tawang Trivandrum Udaipur Ujjain Uttar Pradesh Uttrakhand Vadodara Varanasi
• Guests 1 Guest 2 Guest 3 Guest

Recent Posts

Best Places to Grab a Dessert in Noida

10 Cool Accessories for a Smart Traveller in 2024

Cold-Weather Hacks: 10 Ways To Keep Yourself Warm and Healthy

Top 7 Tricks for Capturing Stunning Travel Photos

Travel Hacks for Solo Explorers

• Cultural Tour
• tour and travel

Please rotate your device

Please go back to portrait mode for the best experience

Must-see attractions in Odisha

Conceived as the cosmic chariot of the sun god Surya, this massive, breathtakingly splendid temple was constructed in the mid-13th century, probably by…

Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary

Three rivers flow out to sea at Bhitarkanika, forming a tidal maze of muddy creeks and mangroves. This is India’s second-largest mangrove region, and most…

Lingaraj Mandir

Bhubaneswar

The 54m-high Lingaraj Mandir dedicated to Shiva dates from 1090 to 1104 – though some parts are more than 1400 years old – and is surrounded by several…

Jagannath Mandir

This mighty temple is home to Jagannath (Lord of the Universe), an incarnation of Vishnu. Built in its present form in 1198, the temple – closed to non…

Museum of Tribal Arts & Artefacts

This superb museum is a must for visitors interested in Odisha's 62 tribes or considering a visit to the state's tribal areas. Complete with interactive…

Mukteswar Mandir

This small but beautiful 10th-century structure is one of the most ornate temples in Bhubaneswar; you'll see reproductions of it on posters across Odisha…

Ratnagiri is the most interesting and extensive among the three Pusphagiri sites. Two large monasteries flourished here from the 5th to 13th centuries…

Udayagiri's two monastery complexes were active between the 10th and 12th centuries AD. At the first one, there’s a large pyramidal brick stupa with a…

Chatikona Market

The weekly Chatikona market takes place at Bissamcuttack (about 40km north) and is mostly attended by the Dongria Kondh and Desia Kondh villagers from the…

Onkadelli Market

Onkadelli is a particularly popular tribal produce market, with Bonda, Mali, Kondh and Paraja people attending to buy and sell fruit, vegetables, dried…

Nalabana Island

Many of Chilika Lake's million-plus migratory birds — including grey-legged geese, herons, cranes and pink flamingos — spend the winter months (November…

Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves

Six kilometres west of the city centre are two hills riddled with rock-cut shelters. Khandagiri is topped with a fine temple. Many of the caves are…

Satkosia Tiger Sanctuary

Made up of the Satkosia and Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuaries, this 964-sq-km forested tiger reserve, 125km northwest of Bhubaneswar, is straddled by a…

In about 260 BC, 11 of of Ashoka’s 14 famous edicts were carved onto a rock at Dhauli, 8km south of Bhubaneswar. Above the edicts, the earliest Buddhist…

Jagannath Temple

Jagannath Temple, whose whitewashed sikhara (temple spire) overlooks Koraput town, is well worth visiting. The courtyard around the sikhara contains…

Chausath Yogini

Hidden among rice fields 15km south of Bhubaneswar, this small but serene 9th-century open-roofed temple is dedicated to yoginis (female tantric mystics)…

Nandankanan Zoological Park

Famous for its white tigers, Odisha's premier zoological park was founded in 1960 and is known to run India's best captive-breeding program for the big…

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

In northeastern Odisha, 40km west of Sambalpur, the 347-sq-km Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a good spot for wildlife-spotting. It comprises the…

Odisha State Maritime Museum

This excellent museum, overlooking the Mahanadi River, focuses on Odisha's centuries-old maritime history of boat-building and trade (particularly with…

Model Beach

Puri is no palm-fringed paradise – the beach is wide, shelves quickly with a nasty shore break and is shadeless. But Model Beach, part of a sustainable,…

This colourful village, 16km southeast of Bhubaneswar, is notable for its locally made brilliant appliqué craft, which incorporates small mirrors and is…

Several monastery ruins (some dating back to 200 BC) consisting of brick foundations line a gentle incline on Lalitgiri hill. One is surrounded by several…

Similipal National Park

The 2750-sq-km Similipal National Park is famous for its tigers, though sightings are relatively rare. Wild elephants on the other hand are far easier to…

Koraput Market

There’s a smaller market here every day, but it’s Koraput’s big Sunday Market that’s worth exploring. Tribespeople and local traders alike buy and sell…

Rajarani Mandir

Built around AD 1100, this temple surrounded by manicured gardens is famous for its ornate deul (temple spire). Around the compass points are pairs of…

State Museum

This museum houses Odisha’s best collection of rare palm-leaf manuscripts, as well as patachitra (scroll paintings), traditional musical instruments,…

Ratnagiri Museum

The four galleries at this fine museum tell the story of the Pusphagiri ruins. Two of them display beautifully preserved sculpture from all three…

Rayagada Market

Rayagada’s daily market is between the train station and the bus stand; turn right out of the bus stand, take the second right and it’s on your left. Here…

Archaeological Museum

This museum contains many impressive sculptures and carvings found during excavations of the Sun Temple.

Parsurameswar Mandir

This is an ornate Shiva temple built around AD 650. It has lively bas-reliefs of elephant and horse processions, panels of musicians and dancers, and…

Duduma Waterfall

Around 7km east of the Onkadelli Market, this beautiful waterfall plunges down the side of a gorge from a height of 175m. During rainy season (July to…

Odisha Modern Art Gallery

Right near the airport, this gallery exhibits the best of Odisha's contemporary art. The permanent collection includes over 200 works by prominent Odishan…

Kundli Market

This is the region's largest produce market, taking place from Thursday afternoon until Friday afternoon. Homemade alcohol brewed from the mahua flower is…

Laxmipur Market

A produce market attended by Kondh and Paraja people, Laxmipur is located 56km northeast of Koraput and is reachable on any Rayagada-bound bus.

Kotapad Market

This is a tribal textile market, featuring yarn coloured with natural dyes, located 63km northwest of Koraput.

Vaital Mandir

This 8th-century temple, with a double-storey ‘wagon roof’ influenced by Buddhist cave architecture, was a centre of tantric worship, eroticism and bloody…

These hallowed cremation grounds are the final earthly stop for some 40 deceased Hindus who are cremated here daily. You can watch or walk among the open…

Raghunandan Library

The world's saddest library — featuring a few rows of dusty, locked bookcases — does a lucrative trade by offering great views of Jagannath Mandir for non…

Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary

Only 20km west of Bhubaneswar, the 175-sq-km Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary was created to preserve wild elephants and their habitat. If you’re lucky…

Markandeya Tank

This bathing place, where Vishnu is said to have resided as a neem tree, is particularly interesting in the mornings, when locals come here for their…

More destinations you need to see

Top Things to Do in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra

Places to visit in ratnagiri, explore popular experiences, top attractions in ratnagiri.

Other Top Attractions around Ratnagiri

What travellers are saying

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 30 Tourist Places In Odisha To Visit In 2024 For A Fun Vacation

23 Mar 2023

Odisha, formerly known as Orissa , is a heritage & culturally enriching state in East India. The long list of beaches, biosphere reserves, temples, museums, and other tourist places in Odisha make the state a must-visit destination. This coastal state offers marvellous architectural wonders of forts & temples and the natural beauty of sun-kissed beaches and serene lakes. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Odisha.

30 Tourist Places In Odisha In 2024

Odisha is a vibrant land. On one side where you find temples and a whole bunch of religious sites, on the other, there are hill stations, valleys, national parks, beaches and rivers. Odisha destinations are innate combinations where God’s presence is deeply acknowledged with the splendour of mother nature. Take a look at some of the best tourist places in Odisha . While some of these are known names, others are quite uncommon.

• Bhubaneswar – Land Of Beautiful Architecture
• Puri – Witness The Unique Sand Art
• Konark – Ancient Temples
• Cuttack – The Vintage City
• Bargarh – Explore The Mythological Treasures
• Jeypore – Gaze At The Famous Waterfall
• Barbil – See The Magnificent Waterfall
• Paradip – The Famous Sea Port
• Rourkela – One Of The Largest Cities
• Sambalpur – A Haven For Nature Lovers
• Chandipur – Home To Sea Turtles
• Pipli – The Town Known For Handicrafts
•  Roopark Village – The Eco-Friendly Resort
• Taptapani – The Hot Water Spring
• Atri – The Place To Relax
• Baripada – Cultural Centre Of Odisha
• Gopalpur – The Beautiful Port Town
• Berhampur – The Temple Town
• Dhauli – The Land Of Peace Pagoda
• Daringbadi – The Hill Town
• Talasari Beach – Relax Under The Sun
• Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary – Enjoy The Wilderness
• Rayagada – The Land Of Historical Gems
• Shree Jagannath Temple: Witness the famous Rath Yatra
• Lingaraja Temple: The oldest and the largest temple in the city
• Chilika Lake: Largest brackish water lake
• Simlipal National Park: Witness the famous Bengal Tiger
• Hirakud Dam: The longest dam in India
• Khandagiri Caves: Explore the beautiful motifs and carvings
• Satkosia Tiger Reserve: Explore the diverse flora and fauna

1. Bhubaneswar – Land Of Beautiful Architecture

Known as the Temple City of India , Bhubaneswar is among the best tourist places to visit in Odisha. It is a classic example of history, heritage, and urbanization. The place has marvellous temples showcasing amazing artwork, wildlife sanctuaries, and exhilarating caves.

Key Attractions In Bhubaneswar : Dhauli Hills, Udayagiri & Khandagiri caves, Ratnagiri Buddhist Excavations, Bindu Sarovara, Nandan Kanan Zoological Park, Satkosia Tiger Reserve, and temples of Mukteswar, Lingaraj, Brahmeswara, & Parasurameswara Places To Stay:  Paradise, Atithi, Paradise Convention, Fortune Park Sishmo, Hotel Priya Best Time To Visit: October to March Entry Fee: N.A.

Must Read: 25 Spectacular Caves In India 

2. Puri – Witness The Unique Sand Art 

Image Source

If you are planning to visit Odisha for a relaxing vacation by the sea, Puri is the place to be. Ranked among the top tourist places in Odisha, you can explore the temples in Puri , the sun-kissed beaches , and local bustling markets that tempt tourists round the year. It is also among the original Char Dhams that hold significance in the Hindu religion.

Key Attractions In Puri : Puri Beach, Puri Beach Festival, Puri Jagannath temple, Chilika Lake & Bird Sanctuary, and Gundicha Ghar Temple Places To Stay:  Hotel Sun City, Pride Ananya Resorts, Hotel Holiday Resort, Hotel Niladri, Desert Villa  Things To Do:  Visit Temples and Explore Beaches Best Time To Visit:  July to March Entry fee: N.A.

3. Konark – Ancient Temples 

Konark is a hub of ancient art and sculpture and the best Odisha destinations. The carvings of the Konark Sun Temple, one of the seven wonders of India , attract large flocks of tourists throughout the year. Along with the marvellous temples, the city has a serene beach and an engrossing archaeological museum to explore. Discovering the finest artwork & sculptures of the Konark Sun Temple is surely one of the primary reasons to visit Odisha, especially for art lovers.

Key Attractions: Archeological Museum, the temple of Sun God & Ramchandi, Chandrabhaga Beach Places To Stay:  Lotus Resort, Labanya Lodge, Goroomgo Sun Plaza Lodge Konark, Goroomgo VIP Lodge Konark, Hotel Blue Ocean Best Time To Visit:  September to March Entry fee:  INR 40 for Indians and INR 600 for foreigners

Suggested Read : 13 Wonderful Places To Visit Near Bhubaneswar

4. Cuttack – The Vintage City 

Cuttack is one of the vintage cities and popular tourist places in Orissa. The business capital of the state is known for many ancient pilgrim centres, forts, museums, lakes, and islands. Moreover, this place also boasts of local handicrafts. It tops the list of places to visit in Orissa .

Key Attractions: Mahanadi Barrage, Fort of Barabati, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Ansupa Lake, and Temples of Singanatha & Bhattarika Places To Stay:  Hotel Seetal, SD VILLA GIRLS HOSTEL, Shree Ram Residency, The Blue Lagoon Hotel Premium, Pramod Convention & Club Resort Best Time To Visit: July to March Entry fee:  N.A.

5. Bargarh – Explore The Mythological Treasures 

Bargarh is one of the less popular tourist destinations of Odisha. However, the amazing century-old temples and the surrounding scenic beauty makes it a must-visit destination. The place has a mythological significance as Gandhamadan Parvat, which finds a mention in the Hindu epic of Ramayana , is located here.

Key Attractions: Chal Dhar Waterfall, Gandhamadan, Pampanga Hills and Temples of Nrusinghanath and Kedarnath Places To Stay:  Hotel SS Palace, Hotel Swastik, Sri Sai Krishna Palace, Hotel Keshmin, Hotel Vd Palace Best Time To Visit : October to March Entry fee: N.A.

Suggested Read: 12 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Odisha 

6. Jeypore – Gaze At The Famous Waterfall 

Jeypore is one of the delightful tourist places in Odisha for nature lovers. It is known for offering spellbinding views of rocky outcrops, picturesque waterfalls, and lush green biosphere reserves.  Deomali , the highest peak of the state, is another popular picnic spot is Odisha that is located not very far from Jeypore.

Key Attractions: Gupteshwar caves, Sunabeda, Deomali, Duduma Falls, Jagannath Sagar, Hatipathar, and Kolab Falls Places To Stay:  Hotel City Plaza International, Zabeer Hotel International Best Time To Visit:  October to February Entry fee: N.A.

7. Barbil – See The Magnificent Waterfall 

Located by the bank of Karo River in Keonjhar , Barbil is a lesser-known tourist spot in Odisha. The place, surrounded by luxuriant forests, offers breathtaking beauty and a break away from the maddening city crowd.

Key Attractions: Hawa Mahal, Gonasika, Thakurani Hills, Murga Mahadev Waterfalls, Uliburu Reserved Forest, and temples of Hanuman & Shiva Places To Stay : Lucky India, Hotel Aadhar, The World Barbil Hotel Best Time To Visit : October to March Entry fee: N.A.

Suggested Read: Top 10 Haunted Places In Odisha

8. Paradip – The Famous Sea Port 

Paradip or Paradeep, the famous seaport of India , finds its place in the list of popular tourist destinations of Odisha. It is located at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and Mahanadi. In addition to the busy dockyard, the city also has some amazing beaches that offer mesmerizing views of the surroundings.

Key Attractions: Paradip Port, Gahirmatha Sanctuary & beach, lighthouse, and Jhankad Places To Stay : Empires Paradip, Sea Pearl Hotel Bar Restaurant, Hotel Golden Anchor Best Time To Visit : October to February Entry fee: No entry fee

9. Rourkela – One Of The Largest Cities 

Rourkela is one of the largest cities of Odisha . The place is primarily known for the steel plant and associated industrial growth. However, it also pulls tourists with its vintage temples, parks, dams, and waterfalls making it one of the best places to visit in Orissa. Some of the wonderful things to do in Rourkela are trekking, picnic, and shopping.

Key Attractions: Darjeeling, Nehru Traffic Park, temples of Vedavyas & Vaishno Devi, Hanuman Vatika, Mandira Dam, Pitamahal Dam, Badaghagra Falls, and Khandadhar Falls Places To Stay:  Hotel Rainbow Regency, HOTEL AV DORMITORY, Hotel Anurag, Hotel Comfort Best Time To Visit: October to March Entry fee:  N.A.

Suggested Read: 14 Famous Festivals In Odisha

10. Sambalpur – A Haven For Nature Lovers 

Sambalpur, known for its natural splendour & cultural sites, is one of the important tourist places in Odisha. The landscape is dotted with numerous waterfalls and lush green forests that allure photography buffs, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts.

Key Attractions: Hirakud Dam, Cattle Island, Chiplima, Huma, Samaleswari Temple, Vikramkhol, Hatibari, and Debrigarh & Ushakothi wildlife sanctuaries Places To Stay:  Hotel Royal Retreat, Hotel Olive, The Welcome Resorts, Hotel Sai Krupa, Shree Shyam Lodge Best Time To Visit:  September to March Entry fee:  N.A.

11. Chandipur – Home To Sea Turtles 

Image Source If you are looking for a sea resort, then this has to be the top pick from all the places to visit in Odisha. Other than its unique disappearing sea, which results due to the high tide and low tide, Chandipur is famous for its seafood. Do try the prawns and pomfret. Also, the town is quite peaceful. It is a quaint seaside town which offers complete serenity and tranquillity. Head here to spend some quality time with your loved ones. 

Key Attractions: Chandipur Beach, where the sea recedes up to 5 km providing the scope to walk on the sea bed see collect seashells, red crabs, turtles, and other underwater marine particles Places To Stay:  HOTEL ASHA NIVAS, International Tourism Resort, Hotel Chandipur, Shanti Guest House Best Time To Visit:  November to March Entry fee: No entry fee

Suggested Read: 22 Natural Wonders In India

12. Pipli – The Town Known For Handicrafts 

Image Source This small town of Odisha is famous in the world for its craft and handicraft. The Applique handicrafts of this town are especially famous. The artisans do a great job with embroidery and colours, making this town stand out in the country and the world. If you happen to visit Odisha, then do head to this town and buy handicrafts and souvenirs from here. It is amongst the most popular Odisha points of interest.

Key Attractions: Beautiful Applique handicrafts and colourful bazaars Places To Stay : Nest Guest House, Royal Orchid Residency Best Time To Visit : October to January Entry fee:  N.A.

13. Roopark Village – The Eco-Friendly Resort 

Image Source This is a beautiful resort located in Odisha. The place is famous as it is eco friendly. If you want to enjoy nature then this should be your top pick. The place offers beautiful scenic vistas of the mountains and lush green lands that surround the village resort. Enjoy dreamy sunsets and energetic sunrises while on your vacay here.

Key Attractions: Roopark Tribal Village Resort Places To Stay:  Hotel Royal Suites, NOCCi Residency, HOTEL Barjorjis BANJARA, HOTEL AYUSH INTERNATIONAL Best Time To Visit : October to March Entry fee:  N.A.

Suggested Read: Weekend Getaways From Kolkata

14. Taptapani – The Hot Water Spring 

Taptapani is famous in Odisha for its hot water spring. This spring is supposed to have medicinal attributes, making it a tourist attraction amidst people. There is a pond next to the hot spring where people can bathe and make use of the medicinal properties of the hot water spring. It is one of the most visited Odisha tourist places.

Key Attractions: Hot springs atop a hill surrounded by lush forest cover Places To Stay:  Srinivas Residency, Hotel Ganesh Bhavan, Nirmalya’s Maharaja, Hotel Bhawani Palace Best Time To Visit : October to March Entry fee:  N.A.

15. Atri – The Place To Relax

Image Source This is a small village in the Khurda district of Odisha. This is again famous due to a hot spring that is present here. If you are wondering how to reach this small place in the state of Odisha, then the nearest airport is at Bhubaneswar. The medicinal properties of the spring are said can cure skin diseases. It is one of the most important  Odisha points of interest.

Key Attractions: Hot springs and bathing complex maintained by Government of Odisha Places To Stay : Hotel Landmark, Hotel Suryamukhi Best Time To Visit : October to February Entry fee:  No entry fee

Suggested Read: 15 Temples In Odisha 

16. Baripada – Cultural Centre Of Odisha 

Image Source Baripada is a cultural centre of Odisha, situated in the Mayurbhanj district. Known for its art and culture, it is one of the famous tourist places at Odisha . One can also see a lot of stars of the Ollywood emerging from this Odisha town of Baripada. The town also has its own dance form which is quite famous in the world, known as the Chhau dance.

Key Attractions: Maa Ambika Temple, Shri Jagannath Temple, and Mayurbhanj Palace Places To Stay:  The Belgadia Palace Best Time To Visit:  October to June Entry fee:  N.A.

17. Gopalpur – The Beautiful Port Town 

Image Source If you like port towns, then Gopalpur should be your pick. Located on the Bay of Bengal coast, this town is towards the south of the state. It is one of the top tourist places of Odisha . The town is a port city and has famous beaches. Go beach hopping here, in this Odisha town and chill and relax here, on one of the beaches, on your next trip to Odisha

Key Attractions: Gopalpur Beach, Dhabaleshwar Beach, Gopalpur Sea Beach, and Haripur Sea Beach Places To Stay:  Mayfair Palm Beach Resort, Mahaveer Service Apartment, Pipul Sea view Resort, Hotel Kavin’s Inn Best Time To Visit:  November to February Entry fee: No entry fee

Suggested Read: 8 Best Resorts In Odisha

18. Berhampur – The Temple Town

On the eastern coastline of Odisha lies the town of Berhampur, also known as Brahmapur. Reaching here is easy as the town is connected to all the major towns of the state through roadways. The town also has its own railhead for those commuting by railways to tourist places near Berhampur. The city has some temples that one can go to on their visit here. It is one of the most visited Odisha tourist places.

Key Attractions: Kedareswar Temple, Thakurani Temple, Bhairabi Temple, and Biju Patnaik Park Brahmapur Places To Stay:  Hotel Ganesh Bhavan, Nirmalya’s Maharaja, Hotel Bhawani Palace, Hotel Bhubaneswari Classic Best Time To Visit:  October to June Entry fee: N.A.

19. Dhauli – The Land Of Peace Pagoda 

Image Source Situated on the banks of the river Daya, Dhauli is close to Bhubaneshwar, at a distance of 8 km from the city. This place has got its significance from the Kalinga War which is supposed to have been fought on Dhauli Hill. There is a famous Shanti Stupa here which attracts visitors from far and wide. It also makes Dhauli one of the famous places to visit in Orissa.  Do add this place in your itinerary and head to the Peace Pagoda.

Key Attractions: Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Dhabaleswar, Kalinga War Battlefield, and CIFA Aquarium Places To Stay:  Dhauli Palace, Treebo Trend King’s Court, CAMPENERS ODISHA, Rajani house  Best Time To Visit:  July to February Entry fee:  No entry fee 

Suggested Read: 5 Water Parks In Odisha

20. Daringbadi – The Hill Town 

Image Source If you are wondering if there are any hill stations in Odisha , then Daringbadi is the place. It is one of the best tourist places in Odisha state which is also referred to as the ‘Kashmir of Odisha’. Take a road trip to this hill station and enjoy the scenic vistas along the way. The nearest railhead is at Brahmapur from where one can take the bus to the city.

Key Attractions: Doluri River, Putudi Waterfalls, Dasingbadi waterfalls, Badangia waterfalls, and Hill View Park Places To Stay:  Utopia Resort Best Time To Visit:  September to May Entry fee: N.A.

21. Talasari Beach – Relax Under The Sun

This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Odisha located in the Baleswar district of Odisha at a distance of 10 km from Digha. Surrounded by pristine surroundings, this beach is considered to be one of the secret beaches which enhances the beauty of the place. Away from the hustle and bustle, this beach is adorned by sand dunes, palm trees and cashew trees. It is amongst the most famous Odisha tourist places.

Key Attractions: Shankarpur, Digha Places To Stay:  Ditto Room Odisha Guest House, Cozy Inn, Hotel New Digha International, Cygnett Lite New Digha Best Time To Visit:  October to December Entry fee:  No entry fee, only INR 40 for a boat ride

Suggested Read : Top 10 Road Trips From Bhubaneswar 

22. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary – Enjoy The Wilderness 

Image Credit: Rajani3737

Spread across an area of 795.52 square kilometres, this wildlife sanctuary is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Orissa . Resting by the Mahanadi river and surrounded by lush greenery, this place is home to a wide variety of species of wild animals, birds and plants. One can spot tigers, gaurs, simbal, four-horned antelopes, sloths, gharial and simbal.

Key Attractions : The variety of wildlife, trees and forests  Places To Stay:  Wooden Leaf Satkosia, Bluebay 08 satkosia Tarava, Bluebay 05 satkosia Baliput, Bluebay 07 satkosia Purunakote Best Time To Visit:  October to March Entry fee: No entry fee

23. Rayagada – The Land Of Historical Gems 

Image Credit: HP Satapathy for Wikimedia

This is a district located in Odisha which is known for its rich history and a vast culture that is worth experiencing. Alongside that this place is also famous for treasuring the local tribal culture. Apart from the historical places, there is delicious cuisine, handicrafts and handmade products. Located at the South Eastern border, this is an upcoming destination which is visited by the tourists every year. The heritage of this place belongs to the Mauryan empire which makes it one of the best tourist places in Odisha .

Key Attractions: Majhighariani Temple, Maa Markama Temple Places To Stay:  Hotel Sai International, Hotel Ashok Best Time To Visit:  October to February Entry fee: No entry fee

Suggested Read: Best Odisha Food

24. Shree Jagannath Temple: Witness the famous Rath Yatra

Image Credit: সন্দীপ সরকার for Wikimedia

Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, this temple holds importance in the Hindu religion. Located in Puri, this temple is famous for its Ratha Yatra also known as the chariot festival which happens every year. It is one of the Dhamas (holy places) out of the four holy places: Puri, Dwarika, Rameshwaram, and Badrinath. It definitely tops our list of places to visit in Orissa.

Key attractions: Alarnatha temple, Sakshi-Gopala temple, Konark sun temple Places to stay: Madhusmruti, Mayfair waves, Judges court Best time to visit: June to March Entry fee: No entry fee

25. Lingaraja Temple: The oldest and the largest temple in the city 

Image Credit: Rajashree Talukdar for Wikimedia

Located in Bhubaneshwar, it is one of the oldest and the largest temples in the city. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it was built by King Yayati in the 11th century. Being the classic example of Kalinga architecture, this temple is built in red stone. The temple is referred to as Swayambhu (self-originating Shivling). The temple premises are divided into four sections: Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum), Yajna Shala (the hall for prayers), Bhoga Mandap (the hall of offering) and Natya Shala (hall of dance).

Key attractions: Rajarani temple, Mukteshwara temple, Baitala temple Places to stay: Swosti premium hotel, Lemon tree premier  Best time to visit: January and March Entry fee: No entry fee

Suggested Read: Migratory Birds Spotted In Odisha

26. Chilika Lake: Largest brackish water lake

Image Credit: Rajanikant Mishra for Wikimedia

Spread over the districts of Orissa like Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam, Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lake. It is amongst the largest lagoon in the world and was given the designation of first Indian wetland of international importance. Home to a large number of migratory species and birds, it is the most visited place amongst the other tourist places in Ganjam Odisha.

Key attractions: Satapada, Kalijai Temple, Rambha Bay Places to stay: Swosti Chilika resort, Chilika Island resort, Daveen Chilika Resort Best time to visit: October to March Entry fee:  No entry fee

27. Simlipal National Park: Witness the famous Bengal Tiger

Image Credit: Byomakesh07 for Wikimedia

Located in the Mayurbanj district of Odisha, Simlipal Nationa Park is a tiger reserve and a national park. Being the 7th largest national park in India, it is also been a part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2009. Home to Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, Chausingha and gaur, this national park got its name from the abundance of red silk cotton trees growing in the area.

Key attractions: Devkund waterfall, Ramatirtha, Chahala Places to stay: Similipal Khairi resort, Similipal hotel, Aranya Nivas Lulung Best time to visit:  October to May Entry fee: N.A.

Suggested Read: 27 Places To Visit In Bhubaneswar 

28. Hirakud Dam: The longest dam in India

Image Credit: Rajesh Unarkat for Wikimedia

Located about 15 km from the Sambalpur districts, Hirakud Dam is built across the Mahanadi River. Being the longest dam in India, this dam holds historical importance as it was the “First multipurpose river valley project undertaken by India” post-independence. It is the best place to visit with your friends and family for a picnic.

Key attractions: Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Samaleswari Temple, Huma Temple. Places to stay: Eco retreat Odisha, Hotel the Grand SIBA Best time to visit: September to March Entry fee: No entry fee

29. Khandagiri Caves: Explore the beautiful motifs and carvings

Image Credit: Yash Raina for Wikimedia

Located in Bhubaneshwar, depicting the best of Jain and Buddhist culture these caves are beautifully built with paintings and motifs. It is believed that these caves were inhabited by some Jain scholars. Home to 15 caves, these caves have carvings of the twenty-four Jain Tirthankars. It is definitely a must-visit historical place in Odisha for all the history and art lovers.

Key attractions: Udayagiri caves, Kedareshwar Temple, Swarnajaleswar Temple Places to stay: The Presidency, Hotel Hindustan International Bhubaneshwar Best time to visit: November to March Entry fee: INR 15 per person (Indians), INR 200 per person (Foreigners)

Suggested Read: 9 Romantic Places In Odisha 

30. Satkosia Tiger Reserve: Explore the diverse flora and fauna

Image Credit: Soumyadeep Chatterjee for Wikimedia

Located in the Angul district of Odisha, Satkosia Tiger Reserves is the best ecosystem in India. Presenting the diverse flora and fauna, this place is known for its scenic charm and stunning natural beauty. It comprises two sanctuaries of Odisha named Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary and Baisipalli Sanctuary. It is amongst the most famous Odisha points of interest.

Key attractions: Tikarapada, Chhotakei, Purunakote. Places to stay: Satkosia sands resort, Satkosia Hill View Resort Best time to visit: October to March Entry fee: INR 20 per person (Indians), INR 100 per person (Foreigners)

Further Read: 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and plan a  trip to Odisha to these amazing tourist attractions. Let us know about the holiday, once you are back. Also, do not forget to share the list with your friends and folks.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Tourist Places In Odisha

What is Orissa famous for?

Orissa is famous for its temples, beaches, street food, rivers and hilly terrains. Also, the state has a lot to offer, it has something for every kind of tourist.

What is the best time to visit Odisha?

The winter season i.e. October to March is the best time to visit Odisha, especially during the months of November, December and January. We will not recommend you to travel during summer season i.e. April to May as it gets very dry and hot during this time. Monsoon season starts from June and lasts till September.

How can I reach Orissa?

If one is traveling by air, then Biju Patnaik Airport at Bhubaneswar is the best way to reach Orissa. Otherwise, the state is well connected via a rail network and roads to other parts of the country.

What is Odisha’s famous food?

Chhena Podo or Burnt Cheese, Chaat, Rasgulla, Gupchup, Pakhala Bhata are some famous foods in Odisha.

Name a few beaches in Odisha?

Here are a few beaches in Odisha: Aryapalli beach, Konark beach, Puri beach, Chandipur beach, Ramchandi beach, and Paradeep beach.

Which city has the most number of temples in Odisha?

The capital city of Bhubaneswar or “City of Temples” has the most number of temples counting to approximately 700.

Are there any wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha?

Yes, there are many wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha including Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Satkosia Tiger Reserve, Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary, Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary and many more.

How many days are enough for Puri?

You can at least expect a stay time of 4 days to explore the full beauty of Puri. However, the number of days will depend on the places you want to visit.

How many national parks are there in Odisha?

There are 3 major national parks in Odisha including Bhitarkanika National Park, Sanjay National Park and Simlipal National Park.

People Also Read:

Places To Visit In Kollam Places To Visit In Dandeli Places To Visit In Dwarka

Recent Posts

Must See Rivers in Vietnam For A Complete Vietnamese Experience

Picnic Spots In Surat: Escape From The City Noises And Pamper Yourself With Stunning Destinations

5 Must-Visit Destinations On The Delhi To Udaipur Road Trip

Agung Rai Museum Of Art: Immersing Into Balinese Culture

Top 10 Places To Visit Near Red Fort Delhi Within 200 Km

Picnic Spots In Meghalaya: Absolute Paradise For Unwinding During Weekends

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Odisha »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

Ratnagiri – Odisha