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Incredible Odisha

Odisha Tourism – Places to Visit, History, Culture, Language, Festivals, and Food

Odisha, located in eastern India, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, pristine beaches, and natural beauty. From the famous Jagannath temple in Puri to the sun-kissed beaches of Gopalpur, Odisha has something to offer for every type of traveller.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Odisha tourism, including some of the top tourist attractions, accommodation options, and travel tips.

Odisha has an area of 5,287 sq km, 30 districts , and a population of over 33 million people. It is one of the fastest growing states in India, with its economy booming due to its rich natural resources like coal, steel, iron ore, etc., which makes it one of the most prosperous states in India today.

Page Contents

History of Odisha

As per the Govt. of Odisha website, Kalinga is known to be a powerful kingdom as early as the time of the Kurukshetra battle. Srutayudha, the king of the Kalinga, joined the camp of the Kourava in the battle and was killed in the battle by Bhimasena with his two heroic sons: Bhanumana and Ketumana.

Consider reading: History of Odisha

Culture of Odisha

The culture of Odisha plays a key role in Odisha Tourism. Odisha has a rich culture and tradition that are represented in its people, food, art, and architecture. The state has also been home to some of the most renowned artists in India.

There are many festivals that celebrate the harvest season or mark special occasions like Holi or Durga Puja. Some of these include the Maha Kumbh Mela (the largest religious gathering on Earth), the Rath Yatra, Rath Yatra Festival, and Kudremukh National Park Festival.

The culture of Odisha is rich in heritage and tradition. It is a place where people live in harmony and peace. The people here are friendly and cooperative.

Their hospitality towards guests is unmatched. The state is blessed with natural beauty and scenic places. The climate of the region is pleasant throughout the year. There are many tourist attractions in Odisha.

The state is known for its ancient temples and historical monuments. One can enjoy boating along the rivers, trekking in the hills and valleys, fishing in the lakes, and indulging in water sports.

The state is well-connected to major cities in India. Many people visit the state to experience its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscape.

The People and the Languages in Odisha

Odia is the official language of Odisha. It is a Dravidian language spoken by about 40 million people all over India, including in other states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

Odia script has been written using ink on paper since 1807. The script was invented by Sanskrit scholar Debendranath Tagore to represent the sounds of his mother tongue, Bengali (then known as Bangla).

It became popular with people who recognized its similarity to their own scripts, such as Devanagari or Tibetan. Today, it’s used in several countries around the world for writing purposes, including Canada, Australia, and South Africa, among others!

Odisha Tourism: Festivals Celebrated in Odisha

Odisha has many festivals celebrated throughout the year. Here are some of them:

• Dola Purnima, a spring festival also known as Holi, is celebrated in Odisha. It is also the festival of colors.
• Raja Sankranti is a harvest festival celebrated in Odisha. It is also the festival of Makar Sankranti.
• Maha Shivaratri, is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of the god Shiva. It is also the festival of Maha Shivaratri.
• Rama Navami is a spring Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of the god Rama.
• Jagannath Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is a Hindu festival dedicated to the god Jagannath.
• Durga Puja is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.

Festival in Odisha contributes immensely to Odisha Tourism.

Consider reading: Festivals of Odisha

Dola Purnima Festival

Dola Purnima , also called Doljatra or Dolastomi, is a Hindu festival that falls on the full moon day in the month of Phalgun. It is celebrated in honour of the Hindu god Krishna.

The festival is observed mainly in the states of West Bengal and Odisha in India. It is also celebrated in the country of Nepal. Dola Purnima is considered to be an auspicious day for Hindus.

On this day, Hindus offer prayers to Krishna and take part in various religious rituals. They also fast and eat only vegetarian food. Devotees also take a holy dip in rivers and lakes.

The main attraction of the festival is the procession of lord Krishna. devotees sing devotional songs and dance in the procession. The procession is led by the priests who carry the idol of lord Krishna.

The procession ends at the temple where the idol is placed on the altar and worshipped. After the puja, the devotees break their fast and feast on the prasad (holy food).

The festival of Dola Purnima is a joyous occasion for Hindus and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervour.

Raja Sankranti Festival

Raja Sankranti is a popular Hindu festival that is celebrated in many parts of India. It is also known as Makar Sankranti and is celebrated on the 14th of January every year. The festival is celebrated to mark the beginning of the solar cycle. People celebrate the festival by flying kites, taking baths in holy rivers, eating special food and performing various rituals.

In some parts of India, the festival is also celebrated as a harvest festival. On this day, people worship the Sun God and offer prayers to him. They also thank him for giving them a good harvest. People also exchange gifts and sweets on this day. The festival of Raja Sankranti is a very important festival for the Hindus and is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm.

Maha Shivaratri Festival

Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival that is celebrated annually in honour of the god Shiva. It is a solemn occasion that is observed by Hindus all over the world. The word Shivaratri means “the great night of Shiva”. This night is considered to be the most auspicious night of the year for worshipping Shiva. On this night, devotees offer prayers and worship Shiva with great devotion.

Maha Shivaratri is also known as the night of self-realization. It is believed that on this night, Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation, preservation and destruction. This festival is celebrated on the 13th night/14th day of the Hindu month of Phalguna. This usually falls in the month of February or March in the Gregorian calendar.

The celebrations of Maha Shivaratri begin with a special puja or worship ceremony in the evening. This puja is performed in front of a lingam, which is a symbol of Shiva. Devotees fast on this day and spend the night in prayer and meditation.

Some also perform Rudra Abhishek, which is a special puja involving the pouring of holy water on the lingam.

Maha Shivaratri is a very important festival in the Hindu calendar. It is a time when Hindus reflect on their relationship with the divine and seek to deepen their understanding of the divine nature.

Rama Navami Festival

Rama Navami is a spring Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of the god Rama. It is also known as Rama Jayanti. The festival is a relatively minor one in the Hindu calendar, but it is an important festival for the Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduism, which worships Vishnu and his Avatars, of which Rama is the seventh.

Rama Navami is a one-day festival, typically occurring on the ninth day of the Hindu lunar calendar month of Chaitra. This typically occurs in late March or early April in the Gregorian calendar.

The festival is a public holiday in many parts of India and Nepal. The day on which Rama was born is a matter of debate. Most Hindus believe that Rama was born on the ninth day of the Hindu lunar calendar month of Chaitra, while some believe that he was born on the ninth day of the month of Shravana.

The Rama Navami festival marks the end of the nine-day-long festival of Navratri, and also the beginning of the Hindu new year.

On Rama Navami, Hindus all over the world celebrate the birth of Rama by fasting, singing devotional songs, reading the Ramayana, and performing special puja (worship) ceremonies. In some parts of India, Rama Navami is also a day on which Hindus perform Ayurvedic cleansing rituals and take special baths in holy rivers.

Jagannath Rath Yatra Festival

Jagannath Rath Yatra is a Hindu festival that commemorates the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra from their temple in Puri to the Gundicha Temple.

The festival is also known as Gundicha Yatra, Navadina Yatra, Dasavatara Yatra or Chariot Festival. It is observed according to the lunisolar Hindu calendar and falls on the second day of the bright half of the month of Ashada.

The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a symbolic representation of Lord Jagannath’s annual visit to his birthplace Gundicha Temple, which is located at a distance of about 2.5 kilometres from the main Puri temple.

The three deities are placed on separate chariots, which are pulled by devotees. The journey from Puri temple to Gundicha Temple is known as Bahuda Yatra, which is followed by a return journey to Puri temple, known as return Yatra or Agya Tirtha Yatra.

The Rath Yatra festival is observed for a period of nine days, starting from the day of Akshaya Tritiya. The first day is known as Bahuda Yatra, which is followed by eight more days, known as Ashadi Ekadashi, Ashadi Dwadashi, Sarvadarshan, Dwitiya Brata, Tritiya Brata, Chaturdashi Brata, Panchami Brata and Saptami Brata.

The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a popular festival in Odisha and is also celebrated in other parts of India In recent years, the festival has also been celebrated in other countries, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, France, Netherlands, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and Mauritius.

Rath Yatra Festival was the major driver for Odisha Tourism in the last few decades.

Durga Puja – Dasahara Festival

Dasahara is a popular festival celebrated in the Indian state of Odisha. It is also known as Durga Puja, as the festival is dedicated to the worship of the Hindu goddess Durga. Dasahara is celebrated over a period of ten days, culminating in the Vijayadashami or Dussehra day.

The Dasahara festival in Odisha is marked by a number of traditions and rituals. The most important of these is the construction of temporary wooden temples or pandals, in which the idol of Goddess Durga is placed.

The pandals are often elaborately decorated and attract large crowds of devotees who come to offer prayers and flowers to the goddess. Another important tradition during Dasahara is the performance of the Durga puja pantomime.

This is a folk theatre form in which a group of performers enacts the story of the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon king Mahishasura. The pantomime is a popular form of entertainment during the festival and is often accompanied by music and singing.

On the tenth and final day of the festival, the Vijayadashami or Dussehra day, effigies of the demon king Mahishasura are burnt in public squares across Odisha.

This signifies the victory of good over evil and is a symbolic reminder of the power of the goddess Durga. The Dasahara festival is a time of great joy and celebration in Odisha. It is a time to remember and worship the goddess Durga, and to reaffirm our faith in the triumph of good over evil.

Odisha Tourism – Best Places to Visit in Odisha

The majority of tourists who visit Odisha visit Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Konark which is the coastal side of Odisha. These places are highly popular because of their proximity to Bhubaneswar and Jagganath Dham Puri and contribute the maximum to Odisha Tourism. But Odisha is much beyond Bhubaneswar and Puri. here are some highly recommended places to visit in Odisha.

• Bhubaneswar
• Gopalpur Beach
• Chilika lake
• Bhitarkanika national park
• Similipal national park

If you want to enjoy all of the above places then you need at least 2-3 weeks to cover the entire list. If you don’t have time then we recommend you plan your Odisha trip as below.

Consider reading – 20 Must Visit Best Tourist Places in Odisha

Places to Visit in East Odisha

East Odisha is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and architectural marvels. From the stunning beaches of Puri to the ancient temples of Bhubaneswar, there’s plenty to explore and discover in this part of the state.

One of the must-visit places in east Odisha is the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri. This temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India and attracts millions of devotees every year.

The temple is also famous for its annual Rath Yatra, a grand procession in which the deities are taken out in decorated chariots.

Another popular destination in east Odisha is the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just a few kilometres away from Puri. This magnificent temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

For nature lovers, Chilika Lake is a must-visit destination. This sprawling brackish water lagoon is home to a variety of migratory birds and is a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can also take boat rides to explore the lake and its many islands.

The city of Bhubaneswar is also worth a visit, with its many ancient temples and architectural wonders. The Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswara Temple, and Rajarani Temple are some of the must-visit destinations in the city.

Finally, Konark Beach is a perfect place to unwind and relax, with its golden sand and serene surroundings. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the beach.

East Odisha is a fascinating destination, offering a wealth of cultural and natural attractions for visitors to explore and experience. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, east Odisha has something for everyone.

Places to Visit inWest Odisha

West Odisha is a beautiful and culturally rich region that offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore. From ancient temples and monuments to scenic waterfalls and wildlife reserves, there’s plenty to see and do in this part of the state.

One of the must-visit places in west Odisha is the famous Sambalpur city, known for its beautiful handloom sarees and textiles. The Hirakud Dam, one of the longest dams in the world, is also located in Sambalpur and is a popular destination for tourists.

Another popular destination in west Odisha is the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Bargarh district. This sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants, and offers visitors a chance to go on jeep safaris and nature walks.

For those interested in history and culture, the city of Bargarh is a must-visit destination. This city is known for its many ancient temples and monuments, including the famous Nrusinghanath Temple and the Danta Ambika Temple.

The Balangir district in west Odisha is also home to some stunning waterfalls, including the Harishankar Falls and the Ranipur Jharial Waterfalls. These waterfalls offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind in the midst of nature’s beauty.

Finally, the Gandhamardan Hills, located in the Bargarh district, offer a great opportunity for trekking and hiking. These hills are also home to the famous Harishankar Temple, a popular pilgrimage site for devotees.

West Odisha is a fascinating region, offering a range of cultural and natural attractions for visitors to explore and experience. Whether you’re interested in history, and wildlife, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, west Odisha has something for everyone.

Places to Visit in North Odisha

North Odisha is a region of natural beauty, cultural richness, and ancient history. From the scenic waterfalls of Baripada to the pristine beaches of Balasore, there’s plenty to explore and discover in this part of the state.

One of the must-visit places in west Odisha is the Simlipal Tiger Reserve , located in the Mayurbhanj district. This sprawling wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards, and offers visitors a chance to go on jungle safaris and nature walks.

Another popular destination in west Odisha is the Emami Jagannath Temple , located in Balasore. This temple is a modern architectural marvel, built in the traditional Kalinga style and adorned with intricate carvings and artwork.

For those interested in history and culture, the city of Baripada is a must-visit destination. This city is known for its many ancient temples and monuments, including the famous Jagannath Temple and the Maa Ambika Temple.

The Jhadeshwar Beach, located in the Balasore district, is also worth a visit. This serene beach is known for its clear blue waters and pristine surroundings, making it a great place to relax and unwind.

Finally, the Barehipani and Joranda Waterfalls, located in the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, are two of the most stunning waterfalls in Odisha. These waterfalls offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind in the midst of nature’s beauty.

Places to Visit in South Odisha

South Odisha is a region of incredible natural beauty, ancient temples, and cultural heritage. From the famous temples of Ganjam to the picturesque beaches of Gopalpur , there’s plenty to explore and discover in this part of the state.

One of the must-visit places in South Odisha is the famous Chilika Lake, a sprawling brackish water lagoon known for its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery. Visitors can take boat rides to explore the lake and its many islands or go birdwatching to spot the many migratory birds that visit the lake.

Another popular destination in South Odisha is the city of Berhampur, known for its many ancient temples and monuments. The Taratarini Temple , Maa Bhairavi Temple, and the Mahuri Kalua Temple are some of the must-visit temples in the city.

For those looking to relax and unwind, Gopalpur Beach is a must-visit destination. This tranquil beach is known for its clean sandy shores and serene surroundings, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Taptapani Hot Spring, located in the Ganjam district, is another popular destination in South Odisha. This natural hot spring is believed to have therapeutic properties and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Finally, the Koraput district in Odisha is a hidden gem, known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and ancient temples. From the scenic hills of Deomali to the majestic waterfalls of Duduma, there’s plenty to explore and discover in this part of the state.

One of the must-visit places in Koraput is the Deomali Hills , the highest peak in Odisha, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can go on trekking and hiking expeditions, and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Another popular destination in Koraput is the Duduma Waterfalls , located on the Machkund River. These waterfalls offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind in the midst of nature’s beauty, surrounded by lush green forests and dramatic landscapes.

For those interested in history and culture, the Sunabeda plateau, located on the border of Koraput and Chhattisgarh, is a must-visit destination. This plateau is home to numerous ancient temples and monuments, including the famous Jagannath Temple and the Gupteswar Cave Temple .

The Kotpad Weaving Village, located in the Kotpad block of Koraput, is another popular destination in the district. This village is known for its unique handloom textiles, made using natural dyes and traditional techniques, and visitors can witness the intricate weaving process and purchase these beautiful textiles.

Koraput district is a fascinating destination, offering a range of cultural and natural attractions for visitors to explore and experience. Whether you’re interested in history, or culture, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Koraput has something for everyone.

Consider reading: 7 Must visit places near Jeypore Koraput

South Odisha is a fascinating destination, offering a range of cultural and natural attractions for visitors to explore and experience. Whether you’re interested in history, and wildlife, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, South Odisha has something for everyone.

Jeypore has been a functional airport since November 2022 so if you are planning a trip to the southern Odisha districts then you can take a flight from Bhubaneswar or Vishakhapatnam to Jeypore airport.

Odisha Tourism Nature Camps

Odisha is a state blessed with a rich natural heritage, and nature camps are a great way to experience the state’s incredible biodiversity up close. These camps are located in some of the most scenic and pristine parts of Odisha, offering visitors a chance to explore the state’s diverse flora and fauna in a sustainable and responsible way.

One of the most popular nature camps in Odisha is the Bhitarkanika National Park , located in the Kendrapara district. This park is home to the largest population of saltwater crocodiles in India, and visitors can take a boat ride through the mangrove forests to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Another popular nature camp in Odisha is the Similipal Tiger Reserve, located in the Mayurbhanj district. This park is known for its lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards. Visitors to Simlipal can stay in eco-friendly cottages and take guided nature walks to explore the park’s many wonders.

For those interested in birdwatching, Chilika Lake is a must-visit destination. This sprawling brackish water lagoon is home to over 160 species of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons. Visitors can stay in nature camps near the lake and take boat rides to spot the birds in their natural habitat.

Odisha nature camps offer visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the state’s incredible biodiversity firsthand. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the serenity of the great outdoors, Odisha’s nature camps are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Odisha Tourism Eco Retreats

Eco Retreats in Odisha are a unique and sustainable way to experience the state’s rich culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. These retreats are located in some of the most picturesque and serene parts of Odisha, offering visitors a chance to relax, rejuvenate, and immerse themselves in local traditions and customs.

One of the most popular Eco Retreats in Odisha is the Konark Beach Resort, located just a stone’s throw away from the world-famous Sun Temple. This resort offers visitors a chance to stay in eco-friendly tents and cottages, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and take part in a variety of cultural activities and entertainment.

Another popular Eco Retreat in Odisha is the Daringbadi Eco Retreat , located in the Kandhamal district. This camp is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, offering visitors a chance to go on nature walks, birdwatching, and trekking. The camp also offers a range of adventure activities such as ziplining and rappelling.

For those looking for a luxurious Eco Retreat experience, the Chilika Lake Resort is a must-visit destination. This resort is located on the banks of the scenic Chilika Lake and offers visitors a chance to stay in spacious and comfortable cottages, enjoy world-class amenities such as a spa and swimming pool, and take part in a variety of cultural and adventure activities.

Odisha Eco Retreats are a perfect blend of luxury and sustainability, offering visitors a chance to experience the state’s rich culture and natural beauty in a responsible and eco-friendly way. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Odisha’s Eco Retreats are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Odisha Tourism – How to Get to Places of Interest?

You can get to places of interest in Odisha by air, train or road.

• Puri is a popular tourist destination with many attractions. It is located about 70 km from Bhubaneswar and has an airport which offers daily flights to all major cities in India. You can also travel via bus or train to reach Puri from any location within the country.
• Konark is another important tourist destination in Odisha where visitors come to see the ancient temple complex that houses some of the oldest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva across India including those at Konark itself; one such temple dating back approximately 1500 years contains sculptures depicting animals like elephants and tigers which were carved out stone blocks without using any tools whatsoever! These animals were created using only chisel marks made on their bodies through hard work (which took about six months). The same technique was used for other sculptures such as those depicting humans too!
• Koraput is the most beautiful destination in Odisha in terms of natural beauty as the District is blessed with hills and waterfalls. The best way to reach Koraput is to take a flight to Vishakhapatnam which is 200 km away from Koraput and then take a train/cab to Koraput.
• To visit western Odisha attractions like Sambalpur, You can take a flight to Jharsuguda which is the nearest airport.

Famous Foods of Odisha

Authentic Odia Food is a key part of Odisha Tourism. The cuisine of Odisha is a confluence of different culinary traditions, with a strong influence from Oriya cuisine.

The cuisine has been influenced by the cuisines of the neighbouring states of Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The staple food of the people of Odisha is rice, which is usually accompanied by dal (lentils) and vegetables.

A typical Oriya meal includes rice, dal, vegetables, salad, pickles and chutneys. The Oriyas are fond of fish, and this is reflected in their cuisine.

The state is also famous for its sweets, which are made with milk, cottage cheese, khoya, jaggery and fruits. The Oriyas are known for their love of food, and this is reflected in the variety and richness of their cuisine.

The state has a number of regional and local cuisines, which are a reflection of the diversity of the people of Odisha. The cuisine of the state can be broadly divided into four regions – the coastal region, the hilly region, the central region and the eastern region.

The coastal region of Odisha is famous for its seafood. The dishes of this region are typically flavoured with coconut and tamarind and use a lot of fish and seafood.

The most popular dish of this region is the Macha Jholo, which is a fish curry cooked in a gravy of coconut and tamarind. Other popular dishes include Crab Curry, Prawn Curry and Fish Fry.

The hilly region of Odisha is famous for its use of spices. The dishes of this region are generally hot and spicy and use a lot of ginger, garlic, cumin and chillies.

The most popular dish of this region is the Rasagulla, which is cottage cheese and khoya balls cooked in syrup. Rasagulla has been in controversy for its origin, The Odisha Rasagulla received a GI ( Geographical Indication ) tag in 2022 to end the debate about the origin of the famous sweet dish.

Last but not least Chena Podo is probably a sweet dish that’s only made in Odisha. Chena podo is made by boiling yams in milk until they are soft, then pureeing them into a smooth paste. Sugar and spices are added to the puree, and the mixture is cooked until thick and creamy.

The dessert is typically served warm or cold and can be garnished with nuts or dried fruits. Chena podo is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is sure to please everyone!

Do Read – Famous Odisha Foods

Religion in Odisha and Religious Places to Visit

The region is home to several religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Islam. Hinduism is the largest religion in the state, with about 82% of the population being Hindu. Buddhism is the second-largest religion, with about 11% of the population being Buddhist.

Jainism is the third-largest religion, with about 2% of the population being Jain. Islam is the fourth-largest religion, with about 3% of the population being Muslim. Religion has always been an important part of the people of Odisha.

Odisha is a secular state and therefore its people follow many religions. The main religion in Odisha is Hinduism. There are also many Buddhists, Jains, Christians and Muslims living here.

When it comes to religion in Odisha, there are three major sects: Vaishnavas (to whom Vishnu is the Supreme Being), Shaivas (who worship Shiva) and Shaktas (who worship Devi).

The temples of Odisha are not only places of worship but also centres of learning. The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the most important Hindu temples in India. It is also one of the four Char Dhams or the four most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The temple is also known as the Black Pagoda, because of the black stone used in its construction.

The Sun Temple in Konark is another important Hindu temple in Odisha. It is dedicated to Lord Surya, the sun god. The temple is also known as the Black Pagoda, because of the black stone used in its construction. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar is another important Hindu temple in Odisha. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is also known as the White Pagoda, because of the white stone used in its construction. The region is also home to several Buddhist sites, such as the Ratnagiri site, the Udayagiri site, and the Lalitgiri site.

The Ratnagiri site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Udayagiri site is home to the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves , which are important Buddhist sites. The Lalitgiri site is home to the Lalitgiri Mahavihara, an important Buddhist monastery.

Islam is also practiced in the region. The region is home to the Hazrat Maulana Ilyas Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Odisha. The mosque was built in the 16th century by the Muslim saint Maulana Ilyas. Odisha is a land of religious diversity and tolerance. The people of Odisha respect all religions and live in harmony with each other.

Religious tourism contributes to a major part of Odisha Tourism.

Final Thoughts on Odisha Tourism

In conclusion, Odisha is a beautiful state in eastern India that offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions for tourists to explore.

From the magnificent temples of Bhubaneswar and Puri to the scenic beaches of Gopalpur and Chandipur, Odisha has something for everyone.

The state’s rich history and unique culture make it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in local traditions and customs.

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FAQs on Odisha Tourism

Which is the no 1 tourist place in odisha.

The No 1 tourist place in Odisha is Puri. Puri is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus due to the renowned Jagannath Temple, part of Char Dham in India. Located on the Bay of Bengal coast, Puri also attracts visitors from West Bengal for its beautiful beaches, making it a favored destination for a short trip.

What is very famous in Odisha?

Some of the most famous attractions in Odisha are the Shri Jagannath Temple, Konark Temple, Bhitarkanika National Park, and Chilika Lake. These sites are renowned for their cultural and natural significance, making them must-visit destinations in Odisha.

What are the popular tourist attractions in Odisha?

The Sun Temple at Konark, Lingaraj Temple at Bhubaneswar, Jagannath Temple at Puri, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Chilika Lake, Bhitarkanika National Park, and Dhauli Peace Pagoda are some of the popular tourist attractions in Odisha.

What is the best time to visit Odisha?

The best time to visit Odisha is from October to March , when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

How can I reach Odisha from other parts of India?

Odisha is well connected by road, rail, and air to other parts of India. Bhubaneswar, the capital city, has its own airport and is well-connected to major cities in India.

Are there any budget-friendly accommodation options in Odisha?

Yes, there are several budget-friendly accommodation options in Odisha, including guest houses, lodges, and homestays. You can find them easily on websites like Air BnB, Booking.com, MakeMyTrip etc.

Can I find good quality food in Odisha?

Yes, Odisha is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants and local eateries that serve delicious and authentic Odia food.

What are the two famous tourist places in Odisha?

 Two famous tourist places in Odisha are the Puri Jagannath Temple and Konark Sun Temple.

Is Odisha good for tourists?

Yes, Odisha is a great destination for tourists. With its abundance of beaches, biosphere reserves, temples, museums, and other attractions, the state offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or culture, Odisha has something to offer everyone. Start planning your trip today and explore all that Odisha has to offer!

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• Bhitarkanika Nature Camps
• Similipal Nature Camps
• Satkosia Nature Camps
• Satkosia Sands Resort (Badmul)
• Debrigarh Nature Camp (Hirakud)
• Chilika Nature Camps
• Nuanai Nature Camp (Puri)
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• Chandaka Nature Camps
• Blackbuck Nature Camps(Ganjam)
• Giant Squirrel Nature Camp(Ganjam)
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• Berbera Nature Camp
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• Chandipur Nature Camp
• Patora Nature Camp
• Tensa Nature Camp
• Koraput Nature Camp
• Nrusinghnath Nature Camp
• Ghodahada Nature Camp
• Rabandhara Nature Camp
• Dambargarh Nature Camp
• Mangrove Retreat Nature Camp

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Odisha is the land of famed forests, mountains, valleys, waterfalls, gorges, soaring peaks with stunning wildlife in their own natural habitats. The important wildlife in State are Elephants, Tigers, Leopards,Hyena, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, Giant Squirrel, Crocodile, Jungle Cats, Hornbills, many migratory birds etc. A total of 110 species of reptiles including three crocodilian species, 20 species of amphibians, 479 species of birds, 86 species of mammals have been recorded so far in the State. For Nature tourists looking to experience wild landscapes in a sustainable way, from Camping to Eco-Resorts,from trekking to birding, from sightseeing to boating,Odisha offers something for everyone and the only thing surpasses the beauty of the State...is the experience of being here..

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Odisha tourism.

Odisha, the eastern coast of Indian state is well-known to world for its alive traditions and culture. Gaining recognition as a pilgrimage destination. Today Odisha becomes one of the key cosmopolitan centers of eastern India. Odisha tour package includes Culture, Art, Craft, Tradition, Festival along with sightseeing let you experience the life of Odisha.

Odisha Tourism includes wide range of tour packages not only to see and learn new things in Odisha but also enjoy your holidays with these packages. The tour packages include Tribal tour packages, Wildlife tour packages, Golden Triangle tour packages, Dimond tour packages to Buddhist places, Temple tour packages, Honeymoon tour packages, Adventure tour packages, Beach tour packages and many more including customize tour solutions. Please select our day to day Itinerary and book the tour package to explore real charm of this beautiful state Odisha.

Places to visit

Jagannath dham, puri.

Puri is counted as one of the most sacred destination of Hindus because of Jagannath Temple, which is known as fourth Dham. The majestic temple is the prime attraction and reason for most visits. Puri temple and it's festivals like Car festival drags world over Tourists and Travelers to show their presence throughout the year. Book your Puri tour with Odisha Tourism to enjoy a serene environment along with quality times at virgin beaches and other in and around attractions of Puri.

Chilika Lake

Chilika is the largest internal salt water lake in Asia and became the paradise on earth for bird watchers and nature lovers. The lake also acts as one of the most supportive ecosystems in the name of Chilika Lake Sanctuary. It is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds on the Indian sub-continent. Chilika is famous for Boating, Fishing and popular picnic spot for locals residing around Chilika. Another major attraction at Chilika is Irrawaddy dolphins.

Temple City, Bhubaneswar

The name based on Lord Shiva, Tribhubaneswara, Bhubaneswar is the capital of Odisha. And is also known as Temple city and Smart city. Hub to many temples, Bhubaneswar is a planned modern smart city that includes wide Roads, beautiful Gardens and Parks. Odisha Tourism includes attractions like Nandankanan zoological park, Dhauli, Udayagiri, Khandagiri, all century old temples and many more. At this smart city you will find ample of entertainment solutions to maximize your holiday enjoyment.

Dolphin Sanctuary, Satapada

Satapada on Chilika is famous for Irrawaddy Dolphins. The famous Chilika dolphins can be seen in their natural best here. There are also ample opportunities for Canoeing, Kayaking and Boating. A small island called Rajahansa is situated near this place at the mouth of the lagoon. Migratory birds do not visit Satapada very often, but a few varieties of migratory birds move to Nalabana bird sanctuary.

Bhitarkanika National Park

Amalgamation of Green Mangroves, Migrating Birds, Turtles, Crocodiles and many more other species make Bitarkanika a perfect Wildlife Sanctuary. The lake is located on the estuarial delta formed by Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra, Mahanadi and the Bay of Bengal in the Kendrapara district of Odisha. Meandering water courses, tranquil surrounding intercepted by the chirping of birds and the ever embracing nature, entrails Scientists, Scholars, Nature Lovers and Tourists from near and far off places to flock these unique places of tourist importance.

Nandankanan Zoo

Nandankanan that literally means the “Garden of Pleasure” is the Zoological Park, nicknamed Garden of God, is located on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar. Along with watching different species the special attractions here are the Bear Safari, Lion Safari and a unique White Tiger Safari. One can take a toy train ride within the park. After going round the zoo, take a boat ride in Kanjia Lake, a wetland of national importance located along the Nandankanan Zoological Park, or visit the State Botanical Garden on the opposite side of the lake.

Once a sea port Gopalpur, bustling with trade and commerce, in the Colonial Era today alluring tourists with its amazing peaceful beaches. The Gopalpur is considered to be one of India's most beautiful beaches largely due to its remoteness, its peace and its offbeat crowd. The beaches are sparkling gold which along with the azure water of the Bay of Bengal providing a perfect place to relax and immerse yourself in nature.

Diamond Triangle of Odisha – Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri & Udayagiri

Diamond Triangle of Odisha comprising of three places, known as Ratnagiri, Udayagiri & Lalitgiri. The diamond triangle name does not bear due to their location which is a perfect triangular pattern but because of the origin of Vajrajana sect of Buddhism. All the three places were hub of monasteries of Buddhism as mentioned by the 7 th century traveler Huen Tsang. He described about the famous university of Pushpagiri which was at par with the universities of Nalanada, Taxila and Vikramshila of the then period.

Paradeep Port

Paradeep a well known city of Jagatsinghpur district in Odisha is an iconic port. Along with the port there are lots of things available in and around the city those create suitable environment for tour and picnic. Odisha tourism includes various Temples, Pleasing Waterfalls, Magnificent Forest, Beaches and many more attractions within Paradeep tourism. So plan your Paradeep tour packages with Odisha tourism.

Pipili Hata

Pipili, a town in Puri, Odisha is famous for its applique work, which is also considered as traditional art form of Odisha. The village of Pipili was set up for accommodating the craftsmen of Odisha and Pipili Hata is the local market that is open for all. In Pipili Hata you will get crafts, which involves embroidering and stitching of small pieces of colored cloth with Flowers, Animals, Village Scene and Traditional designs on to a larger base cloth. The cloth used for patch as well as base is cotton with different color combinations. The usual applique patchwork items are Garden Umbrellas, Wallets, Wall Hanging, lampshades, Pouches & Bags.

Things to Do

Enjoy beach, puri.

Puri beaches, bordering the Bay of Bengal is one among the finest coastlines in East India. Adorned with golden sand tracking water, Puri beaches are renowned for its virginity and calm surroundings. Beach is the best place to relax and enjoy the sunset and sunrise. You can enjoy different water rides, camel and horse rides, different snacks items from sea side food stalls. The beach is also renowned for the Puri beach festival and sand sculptures made by internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarshan Pattnaik.

Boating, Chilika

The boat ride at Chilika Lake is very scenic. You will get chance to see beautiful different green Islands. If during winter you will visit you will come across many varieties of birds, who are becoming guest during this season. Along with seeing deep sea you will also see many fishing nets, fishing boats and prawn farms on the way. You can also ride to Satapada to see Dohphin project and Irrawady. Over all you will enjoy a great ride on water.

Watch Dolphin Satapada

Satapada is located at a distance of 48 KM from temple town of Puri. It is nearly 100 KM from Bhubaneswar. NH-203 A connects Satapada to Puri. This place is located by the side of Chilika and close to the mouth opening of Chilika lake to sea. The main attraction at Satapada is its Chilika boating and Dolphin watch. Tourist come to Satapada for a boat ride in Chilika lake and to watch Dolphins.

Visit Konark Temple

The UNESCO has listed the Sun Temple as a World Heritage Site. The structure of the temple resembles a colossal chariot, with 24 wheels, pulled by seven straining horses, and has a three-tiered pyramidal roof topped off by a fine spire. Along with visiting the Sun temple you can visit the museum of the archeological survey. The Konark beach is very much picturesque and one gets the beautiful sight of sunrise over here. One can also enjoy sunbathing here. Konark beach festival is very much famous among international tourists.

Visit Budhhist Circuit Ratnagiri

Ratnagiri, lying in the Jajpur district in the state of Odisha, is a famous Buddhist religious destination. The spot contains many significant Buddhist sculptures scattered around in the hillside. Some excavations have related the history of Ratnagiri to 6 th Century AD and the Gupta Dynasty. According to an excavation of a vast monastery at Ratnagiri, it dates back to the Mahayana sect and the kings including Ashoka and others of the Gupta dynasty propagated Buddhism in this region. Several other clues of Buddhism – like the Monastery, Stupas, Chaityas, etc. are found in the region. Ratnagiri is known as a remarkable destination of learning for the Budhism of Tantric cult - known as Vajrayana. As hinted by Tibetan Buddhist texts, Kalchakrayana also bloomed considerably in the region.

Visit Peace Pagoda, Dhauli

Dhauli Giri or Shanti Stupa, also known as Peace Pagoda, is a Buddhist structure built jointly in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangh and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangh. Situated on the opposite hill of Dhauli Giri, it was built through the Indo-Japanese collaboration.You can find splendid Edicts of Ashoka embossed on a mass of rock in Dhauli, beside the way to the hill summit. It is believed that Dhauli hill was the battlefield of the Kalinga War. Numerous artifacts tell us about the urban settlement at this place in the 3 rd century B.C.

Khandagiri & Udaragiri Caves, Bhubaneswar

Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves once served as a residence of Jain monks; the whole construction is said to have happened during the rule of Kalinga King Karavela. Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves are rock cut caves excavated in two adjacent hills that rise abruptly from vast expanse of barren land. Both the hills stand separated only by a narrow road. Udayagiri hill which is 135 feet tall was earlier called Kumari Parvata whereas 118 feet high Khandagiri hill was known as Kumara Parvata. There are 33 rock cut caves in all. 18 are in Udayagiri cave whereas 15 are in Khandagiri caves.

Visit Temples of Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is rightly called the “City Of Temples” . With more than 700 temples, this capital of Odhisha attracts devotees from not just the country, but even from the outside. Although a majority of them are dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Capital City also houses heritage structures related to Buddhism and Jainism. Each of these structures are characterized by magnificent architectural designs and beautiful sculptures. Apparently, the City derives its names from the Sanskrit name of Lord Shiva, Tribhuvaneswar and mythological references describe the area as Ekamra Kshetra and Shaiva Pitha.

Watch Crocodile Sanctuary, Bhitarkanika

Bhitarkanika is a Hot-spot of Biodiversity. It's home to largest population of salt water crocodile in India. The park is blessed with a vast mangrove ecosystem, which being spread across a vast area makes it second largest in the world. What makes this park even more intriguing is that it shares its borders with the famous Gahirmatha Beach and is surrounded by the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary. You can also opt to go on adventure trails through the dense forests along with exciting boat rides.

Watching Birds, Chilika

Every year, millions of migratory birds traverse the same north-south routes across the world, known as flyways, between breeding and wintering grounds. Brackish Chilika Lake, in Odisha, is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds in the Indian Subcontinent. The serene wetlands at Mangalajodi, on the northern edge of Chilika Lake, attract a substantial proportion of these birds. Bird lovers went by boats in the sprawling waters of Chilika and watched birds that had migrated to the famous wintering ground after flying thousands of miles.

Best Time to Visit

Preferrable time for Odisha tourism is the winter season. Mostly the times starts from October - March period - especially November, December and January - when the weather is warm and dry. It gets uncomfortably hot in April - May, and the monsoon generally hits in June and lasts until the end of September. The first couple of months of the rainy season are also sweltering, but this is when Odisha's most famous festival, the Rath Yatra, takes place. If you want to visit the famous car festival then you have to visit Odisha in the month of June and July. So plan accordingly.

How to reach

Odisha has one International Airport which is located in the capital city, Bhubaneshwar(Biju Patnaik International Airport). Regular flights operate to and from the city. This Airport is further connected to the Airports of major cities like New Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Raipur, Varanasi, Mumbai and Chennai. After landed at Bhubaneswar you can plan your stay either in Bhubaneswar or can travel through your hired cab or by your booked hotel cab services to your destination.

Bhubaneswar Railway Station is one of the most convenient and important Railway Stations in Odisha. The train network connects Bhubaneswar to major places of the country including Calcutta, Puri, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Tirupati and Trivandrum. There are many more rail heads other than the Bhubaneswar Railway Station. These stations connect Odisha to other towns and places within and outside the state.

Odisha is connected to a wide network of roads which are further connected to the rest of the country through National Highways and State Highways. This way, Odisha is easily accessible from all major cities of the country like New Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Raipur, Varanasi, Mumbai and Chennai.

Culture of Odisha

The culture of Odisha derived from various rulers as this land has been ruled by vivid rulers. Every rulers Arts and Crafts are mixed and formed a different culture of Odisha. It is the language and the culture of the Aryans mostly seen in Odisha. These people who made their entry from the North Eastern state have shown a decent cultural background. Present style of the living of the people of Odisha is a result of the racial and cultural amalgamation. The geography of the state contributes to its cultures of the Aryans and Dravidians. The people of Odisha are known for their rich cultural heritage and have an amalgamation of the Jagannath cult, the Vaishnav cult, Buddhism and Sivayat cult. Odia is the offical language mostly spoken here but there are other languages along with tribal languages are also spoken in few parts of the state.

Food of Odisha

Odisha has a very rich religious culture that has been reflected in the food as well. Odia cuisine is very simple yet delicious, prepared in little or no oil which not only enhances the taste, but makes them very healthy as well. Here, you will find a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Again people here loves eating sweets and may be this is the reason they themselves are so lovable. Scroll down below to get a glimpse of the variety of unique, authentic delicacies which can only be found in Odisha. Our best 10 food are:

Chhena Podo(Milk Cake)

Chhena Podo literally means burnt cheese in Odia. It is prepared with well-kneaded Chhena or fresh cottage cheese, sugar and nuts and baked for hours till the aroma fills the air and it browns completely. A must have dish for your friends and family whenever you visit Odisha next time.

Podo Pitha(Spiced, Rice & Coconut)

This cake is baked with a lot of twist and is miles away from the cake which we normally eat. It's not easy to prepare either. It has a long list of ingredients and takes forever to bake. That's the reason people prefer to cook it once in a year. Most prepared during Raja festival (Swing Festival) in Odisha, Podo Pitha can be rightly called as the Godfather of all Pithas. Podo Pitha is traditionally prepared in a clay oven overnight, but now people bake in their oven to ease the process a little. With a slight burnt top, little spice of cardamom at each bite and that crunch of coconut and nuts along with a caramelized jaggery is sure to make you drool.

Aah Dalma! You just can't get enough of dal, can you? However, this staple food comes with a unique twist when in Odisha. It is made with roasted moong dal without any onion or garlic. A few regular spices along with a cup of veggies are added to it to give it a lip-smacking flavour. Common veggies include Pumpkin, Plantain, Yam and Papaya, which work like magic on your overall health. Mostly eaten with rice, this finger-licking meal will more than satiate your appetite.

Pakhala Bhata(Water Rice)

Pakhala Bhata is the daily lunch for almost every household in Odisha during summers. It is prepared by soaking cooked rice in water and sour curd. Typically left overnight, and often served with potatoes, fried fish, papad and Badi choora, which is dried and nut-like urad and black gram. This fermented rice is the perfect dish to beat the heat and refreshes you from within. 20 th March is celebrated as Pakhala Dibasa(Universal Pakhala Day) by all Odias to welcome summer season with Odisha's traditional food.

Dahi vada-Aloo dum

Yet another popular street food that we see after Gupchup in Odisha, is Dahi vada and Aloo dum. Go out at even 5 in the morning and you can see thela walas with their big pots of Dahi Vada and smaller pots filled with Aloo Dum. While everywhere else, Dahi Vada and Aloo Dum are considered to be two separate dishes, Odisha offers a distinctive blend of the both. The relishing taste of Dahi Vadas carefully neutralises the spiciness of Aloo Dum, giving the taste that every Odia craves for.

This classic Odia dish is a fried or boiled vegetable curry that slurps down your tongue with every spoon. With a blend of raw Papaya, Potato, Tomato and Brinjal, the dish is nothing less compared to any other healthy food. As the recipe is low on spices and high on greens, it is most commonly eaten for a healthy diet. You may want the dish to be mildly sauteed with milk and spices for an extra taste.

Ghanta in Odia means mixed. This dish is prepared by mixing a variety of vegetables and is mostly enjoyed during festivals. It's very high in nutrition and has got a typical taste which can be enjoyed with either Rice or Chapatti along with lentils soup.

Manda & Enduri Pitha

This is the steamed version of the Pitha. While Manda Pitha is prepared mostly during festivals, Enduri Pitha is reserved for Prathamashtami, a festival celebrated to pray for long life and well being of the first child in a family. Manda Pitha is basically made up of semolina stuffed with sweet filling. Enduri is made up of rice flour filled with sweet filling and steamed within turmeric leaves.

Mudhi Mansa

Baripada, a small town of Mayurbhanj distirct of Odisha is known for its Mudhi(puffed rice) and Mansa(mutton). Today this is gaining popularity throughout Odisha. Mudhi tastes utterly delectable with its mutton gravy counterpart.

Special Tour Package

Odisha Fixed Departure

Golden Triangle of Odisha

Romantic Konark Puri Tours

Odisha Wildlife Tour

Odisha Tribal Tour

Odisha Buddhist Tour

Jagannath Dham with Gangasagar

Adventure Tour to Odisha

Jagannath dham rathyatra tour, major touriest destinations in odisha.

Situated in the eastern part of the Indian state of Odisha, is one of the four holy dhams of Hinduism and the hallowed seat of Lord Jagannath. Puri is a small city known for its pilgrimage importance.

Konark is a town situated in the Puri district in the state of Odisha, India. It is the site of the 7 th century Sun Temple, also known as the Black Pagoda.

Chilika Lake is the largest internal saltwater lake in Asia, it is a paradise on earth for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Bhubaneswar

Bhubanswar emerged with century old name as Temple city is the capital city of Indian state Odisha.

A major port of Odisha , Paradeep is a major seaport town and a designated municipality area in Jagatsinghpur district of Odisha, India.

Cuttack City Known as Abhinaba Baranasi Kataka in the medieval age, Cuttack is one of oldest cities of Odisha.

Explore the land of Odisha

Beach & Lake

Fair & Festivals

Dance & Music

Budhhism & Jainism

Water Falls

Tribes in Odisha

Handicrafts

Odisha the cultural state of India is the land of Paddy Fields, highest Tribal communities, golden Beaches, century old Temples, wild Parks along with many more attractions.

Odisha, the state with a glorious history, is filled with nature and adventure. Inhabited by tribal people, the not-so-developed state of Odisha must be visited to have the experience of the myriad wonders it has in store for everybody. Also known as the soul of India, Odisha is a place where you can relax on the beaches, visit the famous temples and explore the beauty and bounty of nature and wildlife. You can also find various monuments which gloriously stand to remind you of the history of the land.

The name Odisha is derived from Sanskrit word “Odra Vishaya” or “Odra Desa” . The ancient province of “Odra desa” or “Or-desa” was limited to the valley of the Mahanadi and to the lower course of the Subarnarekha River. It comprised the whole of the present districts of Cuttack and Sambalpur and a portion of Midnapore. It was bounded on the West by Gondwana, on the North by the wild hill states of Jashpur and Singhbhum, on the East by the sea and on the South by Ganjam.

The Odisha state, which was once a land of Kings and Kingdoms, now boasts of being rich source of natural resources. Its People, Temple Architecture, Classical Dance, Religions, Fairs and Festivals, unique Handlooms and Handicrafts, green Woodlands, Rock Caves, charming Blue Hills have always attracted Historians, Tourists and Travelers from all over the world. Its rich history, revolutionary Freedom movement, fascinatingly sculptured Temples and Monuments, Tribal life characterized by Dance, Music, Rituals, Hunting, Gaiety and Wild ways have become important topics of research for great historians and scholars.

Odisha's Art and Culture, Fairs and Festivals, Dances and Music are a treat for the tourists who love to see colours and wish to enjoy life to the fullest. Visit the soul state of India and come back with a bag full of memories that will remain etched in your mind for a long time.

Why book Odisha tour package with us?

Odisha is an amazing holiday destination, owing to the diverse experiences it offers. Go on Odisha tours with Odisha Tourism for a hassle-free visit to different destination to explore new things every time. With Odisha tourism you will find different charm and detail history of every places. The best thing with us for you is the customize holiday packages those you will love to adopt. Visit only those places, which you have selected from the list with your preferred services.

Local and travel experts would agree that the best time to book a holiday package for Odisha is from October to March i.e. during the winter season. The summers in Odisha are very uncomfortable with scorching heat and frequent rain showers during the monsoon from July to September become a hindrance in visiting the various Odisha points of interests. Hence, the winters serve as the best time to visit the tourist destination in Odisha with temperatures between 13°C to 27°C. Another advantage in winters is that it is the time for migratory birds here which can be observed at Chilka lake and other national parks.

The various Odisha tourism packages provide a soul-stirring journey to the travelers with a medley of traditions, culture and vibrant geographies. Odisha holiday packages help plan holidays to Odisha more efficiently as well as comprehensively so that the tourists can enjoy it without any hassles.

With much to offer ranging from the beautiful Rivers, Beaches, Temples, Leeds, Waterfalls and Wildlife, it is quite natural to find the Tourist destinations in Odisha packed all round the year. Some of the most famous and visited Odisha points of interest include the Puri Beach, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Dhauli Giri Hills, famous Chilka lake, the Sun temple in Konark, Satakosia Tiger Sanctuary, Koraput, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Jagannath temple in Puri, Tribal Museum, Nine Planet Shrine and Chausathi Yogini in Bhubaneswar. The Simlipal National Forest is a paradise for the nature lovers. The bird-lovers can enjoy watching the migrating birds at Chilika lake as well as the Wildlife Sanctuary during the winter months.

Enjoy comfortable Accommodation, healthy Meals, Airport Transfers and sightseeing services with our customizable Itineraries for tour packages for Odisha. Indulge in offbeat experiences in Odisha and make your getaway to this rather unexplored state of India special!

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Odisha is located in the eastern part of the country, it is bounded by the states of Jharkhand and West Bengal to the north and northeast, by the Bay of Bengal to the east, and by the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to the south and Chhattisgarh to the west.

Odisha is one of the most beautiful places to visit at any time of the year.

Odisha is an amalgamation of everything! Whether you are looking for Honeymoon, Adventure, Leisure, Beach, Hill Stations, Wild Parks or Water Destinations, you will find all your answers in Odisha.

Odisha is an important Tourism and Holy destinations of India. Travelers and visitors can reach this beautiful destination from any corner, involving via Road, Railways or Air easily.

Odisha has many Airports but among all Biju Pattnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is the most active one.

In Odisha there are no such restrictions on clothing for the visitors. Till dressing sense of a visitor does not hurt the sentiment of their local culture and religious beliefs, visitors can dress according to their own preferences.

Indians certainly don't require any Visa or Passport to visit Odisha. However, both are mandatory for International tourists.

Odisha has many choices for Travelers and Tourists in terms of activities in which they can engage in. To list down a few, there are Water Sports activities, Wildlife Safaris, Trekking, Beach activities, Tribal Village Tours, Cultural Tours, Hiking, Beach Festivals, Religious Tours, Romantic Tours etc.

The boats are built in a way, visitors should not feel short for any amenities and facilities while enjoying boating in some places of Odisha.

Odisha is one of the most important parts of India. It follows the FOREX rate as decided by the Government of India.

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WELCOME TO ODISHA

O disha is a complete package in all aspect, where you can enjoy serene and rustic hills, scenic waterfalls, historic monuments & heritage sites, crowded as well as silent beaches, lakes and holy pilgrimage sites. Three-quarters of the state is covered in mountain ranges and eastern part is gifted with 480kms of coastline on Bay of Bengal. Odisha has two National parks and nineteen sanctuaries housing numerous species of flora and fauna. White tigers, Olive Ridley, migratory birds, crocodiles are the key wildlife attractions. Odisha is surrounded by Andhra Pradesh to its south sharing Eastern Ghats with the state, Chhattisgarh to its west and north-west, Jharkhand to the north and West Bengal to the north-east. The state is well connected with neighbouring states and important cities through roadways, airways and railways. The landscape varies from hills to beautiful beaches & lakes and dense forests to smart cities.

Odisha is famous for its rich culture and heritage. The ruins of sun temple Konark, the amazing sacred ancient Jagannath and Lingaraj temples, Buddhist places like Dhauligiri, Ratnagiri are the symbols of Orissa's cultural heritage. Traditional handicrafts like applique work of Pipili, silver filigree work of cuttack, brass and bell metal work, pattachitra (cloth painting) of Raghurajpur, stone carving attacts many national as well as international travellers. Odisha has a glorious tradition of music and dance. Odissi dance (one of the 8 classical dance of India), Gotipua dance and Sambalpuri dance are pride of Odisha.

EXPLORE ODISHA

Top ten places in odisha, experiance tourism, festivals of odisha, ratha yatra.

Rath Yatra festival is celebrated annually in Puri, Odisha. During this world renowned festival, lord Jagannatha is worshipped along with his brother lord Balabhadra and ...

Dhauli Kalinga Mahotsav

Dhauli Kalinga Mahotsav is celebrated on foot hills of Dhauli Shanti Stupa in association with Odisha Dance Academy. The festival is celebrated to keep odia ancient ...

Dhanu Jatra

Dhanu Jatra is unique open air theatrical drama based performance in Bargarh. The place sets World's biggest open air theatre for this festival spreading across a 6km ...

People of Odisha

The Odias are distinguished by their ethnocultural customs as well as the use of the Odia language. Odisha's relative isolation and the lack of any discernible outside influence has contributed towards preserving a social and religious structure.

History of Odisha

The name, Odisha (formerly Orissa), refers to the current state in India. But in the different era the region and parts of the region were known by different names. The term "Odisha" is derived from the ancient Prakrit word "Odda Visaya".

Odisha is a state in the Republic of India. It is situated in the eastern part of the country. It is surrounded by West Bengal to the north-east and in the east, Jharkhand to the north, Chhattisgarh to the west and north-west and Andhra Pradesh to the south.

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How can a visit to Odisha be a journey of discovery?

TRAVEL TRENDS , ORISSA Created : Jun 10, 2024, 09:00 IST

Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, often remains overlooked in favour of its more popular neighbours. However, those who venture to this culturally rich and diverse state are in for a profound experience that can truly be an eye-opener. From its ancient temples and vibrant festivals to its pristine beaches and tribal villages, Odisha offers a glimpse into a world that is both mesmerising and enlightening. A visit to Odisha is not just a journey of sightseeing, but can be a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. Read on to know how.

Ancient temples and sacred sites

One of the most striking aspects of Odisha is its wealth of ancient temples and sacred sites. The state is home to some of the finest examples of temple architecture in India, including the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri, the exquisite Sun Temple in Konark, and the mystical Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar. These temples, dating back centuries, are not just architectural marvels but also spiritual centres that attract devotees and pilgrims from far and wide.

Vibrant culture and festivals

Odisha is a land of festivals, where age-old traditions and rituals are celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. From the grand spectacle of the Rath Yatra in Puri to the colourful festivities of Durga Puja and Diwali, the state pulsates with energy and excitement during its various festivals. Witnessing these celebrations firsthand offers a unique insight into the cultural richness and diversity of Odisha.

Pristine beaches and coastal charm

The coastline of Odisha is dotted with pristine beaches that rival some of the best in the world. From the serene shores of Puri Beach to the untouched beauty of Chandipur Beach, there is no shortage of breathtaking coastal vistas to explore. Whether you're a sunbather, a surfer, or simply a lover of natural beauty, Odisha's beaches offer the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tribal villages and indigenous culture

In the interior regions of Odisha, traditional tribal communities still thrive, preserving their ancient customs, languages, and way of life. A visit to these tribal villages offers a fascinating glimpse into a world that is vastly different from the modern cities. From the colorful attire of the tribespeople to their intricate handicrafts and vibrant dance forms, the indigenous culture of Odisha is a treasure trove of heritage and tradition.

Wildlife sanctuaries and natural beauty

Odisha is blessed with a diverse range of ecosystems, including dense forests, rolling hills, and meandering rivers. The state is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, such as Simlipal National Park and Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can spot a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger and the endangered Olive Ridley Sea Turtle.

Arts, crafts, and handicrafts

Odisha is renowned for its rich artistic heritage, with a long tradition of craftsmanship and creativity. From intricate silver filigree work to vibrant Pattachitra paintings and elegant Odissi dance performances, the state's artistic traditions are celebrated worldwide. Visitors can explore local markets and artisan villages to purchase authentic handicrafts and souvenirs, supporting local artisans and craftsmen in their craft.

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Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, often remains overlooked in favour of its more popular neighbours. However, those who venture to this culturally rich and diverse state are in for a prof...

Odisha witnessed a dip in foreign tourists last year

BHUBANESWAR: Even as the state saw an encouraging growth in foreign tourist arrivals post-Covid pandemic, this hasn’t been the case in the last tourism season.

Tour operators and stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sectors of the state have witnessed a decline in leisure travellers from different countries from August 2023 to April this year, which is the peak season for inbound tourism. They pointed out that the number of international visitors had grown by 875 per cent in 2022 in comparison to 2021, as per the Tourism department statistics. But there has been a slump again.

In 2022, the total foreign tourist arrivals stood at 22,121 with the highest 3,446 arrivals from the US followed by 2,378 from Japan, 1,476 from Germany and 1,345 from the UK. The international footfall was only 2,269 in 2021 and 10,206 in 2020, as per the Tourism department.

According to the travel trends of international tourists, while Bhubaneswar, Puri and Konark circuit is one of the famous circuits for them, those from European countries also visit tribal areas and wildlife parks.

Chairman of the Odisha chapter of Indian Association of Tour Operators Gagan Sarangi said going by the 2022 trend, hopes were high for a further increase in international tourist footfalls to match the pre-Covid level. “However, there were negligible bookings this time from both group and individual international travellers since August-September when tourists from US, Europe and UK start coming in. Although group travels will happen during Rath Yatra, they are mostly for religious purposes and not leisure,” he said.

Secretary of Hotel Association of Puri Raj Kishore Patra said while Puri has witnessed a five per cent rise in domestic tourist arrivals post-Covid pandemic, that of foreign tourists has only been dipping. “Compared to 2022, only 1 per cent of foreign travellers have stayed in Puri in the last tourism season,” he said.

Usually, such travellers stay in either Bhubaneswar or Puri and travel to Konark, Chilika and tribal districts in southern Odisha, with their days of stay ranging between three and 15.

Admitting to the poor international tourist footfall, chairman of the Hotel & Restaurant Association of Odisha JK Mohanty explains the reasons. “One of the factors is that there has been no aggressive marketing of state’s tourism in many countries after the Centre closed down all its tourism offices and assigned the embassies to promote tourism two years back. Embassies do not have trained manpower to do the job,” he said. Although the state has direct air connectivity with Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok and now Malaysia, the out-bound tourism to Dubai and South East Asian countries has increased but not vice-versa. “There aren’t enough road shows happening in these countries. There is a need for continuous marketing of Odisha’s tourism products in these countries to bring in travellers,” he added.

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