Odisha, formerly known as Orissa, is a heritage & culturally enriching East India’s state. The extensive collection of beaches, biosphere reserves, temples, museums, and other attractions tourist places in Odisha Make the state a must-see attraction. This coastal state has magnificent architectural treasures like as forts and temples, as well as natural beauties such as sun-kissed beaches and tranquil lakes. The following is a list of the best locations to visit in Odisha.
30 Tourist Places In Odisha
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 well-known, others are not.
- 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 one of the greatest tourist destinations in Odisha. It exemplifies history, legacy, and urbanization. The area has magnificent temples with remarkable artwork, animal sanctuaries, and thrilling caverns.
Key Attractions In Bhubaneswar: Dhauli Hills, Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, Ratnagiri Buddhist Excavations, Bindu Sarovara, Nandan Kanan Zoological Park, Satkosia Tiger Reserve, and temples of Mukteswar, Lingaraj, Brahmeswara, and Parasurameswara are all worth seeing.
Places To Stay: Atithi, Paradise Convention, Fortune Park Sishmo, Hotel Priya, Paradise
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: NA
2. Puri – Witness The Unique Sand Art
Puri is the place to go if you want to spend a quiet holiday by the sea in Odisha. Puri’s temples, as well as the sun-kissed beaches, are among the major tourist destinations in Odisha. beaches , and local bustling markets that entice travelers all year. It is also one of the originals. 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 are all popular attractions in Puri.
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: NA
3. Konark – Ancient Temples
Konark is one of the top Odisha locations and a center for ancient art and sculpture. The sculptures of the Konark Sun Temple, one of India’s seven wonders, draw vast crowds of visitors all year. In addition to the magnificent temples, the city features a tranquil beach and an absorbing museum. archaeological museum to investigate. Discovering the best works of art and sculptures of the Konark Sun Temple is without a doubt one of the main reasons to visit Odisha, particularly for art aficionados.
Key Attractions: Archeological Museum, Sun God and Ramchandi Temple, Chandrabhaga Beach
Places To Stay: Lotus Resort, Labanya Lodge, Goroomgo Sun Plaza Lodge Konark, Goroomgo VIP Lodge Konark, and Hotel Blue Ocean are all located in Konark.
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Entry fee: Rs. 40 for Indians and Rs. 600 for foreigners
4. Cuttack – The Vintage City
Cuttack is a historic city and a prominent tourist destination in Orissa. The state’s commercial hub is noted for its numerous historic pilgrim centers, forts, museums, lakes, and islands. Furthermore, this location is known for its indigenous handicrafts. It is at the top of the list of places to visit in Orissa
Key Attractions: Mahanadi Barrage, Fort Barabati, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Ansupa Lake, and Singanatha and Bhattarika Temples
Places To Stay: Hotel Seetal, SD VILLA GIRLS HOSTEL, Shree Ram Residency, The Blue Lagoon Hotel Premium, and Pramod Convention & Club Resort are among the accommodations available.
Best Time To Visit: July to March
Entry fee: NA
5. Bargarh – Explore The Mythological Treasures
Bargarh is one of Odisha’s less popular tourist spots. The spectacular century-old temples and surrounding picturesque splendor, though, make it a must-visit location. The location has mythical importance as Gandhamadan Parvat, which is mentioned in the Vedas. Hindu epic of Ramayana , is located here.
Key Attractions: Chal Dhar Waterfall, Gandhamadan, Pampanga Hills, and Nrusinghanath and Kedarnath Temples
Places To Stay: Hotels SS Palace, Swastik, Sri Sai Krishna Palace, Keshmin, and Vd Palace
Best Time To Visit : October to March
Entry fee: NA
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 Another renowned picnic location in Odisha that is not far from Jeypore is of the state.
Key Attractions: Sunabeda, Deomali, Duduma Falls, Jagannath Sagar, Hatipathar, and Kolab Falls are all nearby.
Places To Stay: Zabeer Hotel International, City Plaza International
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Entry fee: NA
7. Barbil – See The Magnificent Waterfall
Located by the bank of Karo River in Keonjhar Barbil is a lesser-known tourist attraction in Odisha. The location, surrounded by lush woods, provides spectacular beauty and a respite from the hectic daily life.
Key Attractions: Hawa Mahal, Gonasika, Thakurani Hills, Murga Mahadev Waterfalls, Uliburu Reserved Forest, and Hanuman and Shiva temples are also worth seeing.
Places To Stay Hotel Aadhar, Lucky India, The World Barbil Hotel
Best Time To Visit : October to March
Entry fee: NA
8. Paradip – The Famous Sea Port
Paradip or Paradeep, the famous seaport of India , is among the most prominent tourist sites in Odisha. It is situated at the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal and the Mahanadi rivers. In addition to the bustling dockyard, the city boasts several beautiful beaches with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Key Attractions: Jhankad, Paradip Port, Gahirmatha Sanctuary & Beach, lighthouse
Places To Stay Hotel Golden Anchor, Empires Paradip, Sea Pearl Hotel Bar Restaurant
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 related industrial expansion. However, its historic temples, parks, dams, and waterfalls draw visitors, making it one of the greatest. places to visit in Orissa. Trekking, picnics, and shopping are just a few of the exciting activities to do in Rourkela.
Key Attractions: Darjeeling, Nehru Traffic Park, temples of Vedavyas and Vaishno Devi, Hanuman Vatika, Mandira Dam, Pitamahal Dam, Badaghagra Falls, and Khandadhar Falls are among the attractions.
Places To Stay: HOTEL AV DORMITORY, HOTEL RAINBOW REGENCY, HOTEL ANURAG, HOTEL COMFORT
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry fee: NA
10. Sambalpur – A Haven For Nature Lovers
Sambalpur, recognized for its natural beauty and cultural monuments, is a popular tourist destination in Odisha. There are several trees dotting the terrain. waterfalls and lush green forests that entice photographers, environment lovers, and adventure seekers.
Key Attractions: Hirakud Dam, Cattle Island, Chiplima, Huma, Samaleswari Temple, Vikramkhol, Hatibari, and the nature sanctuaries of Debrigarh and Ushakothi
Places To Stay: Hotel Royal Retreat, Hotel Olive, The Welcome Resorts, Hotel Sai Krupa, and Shree Shyam Lodge are some of the hotels in the area.
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Entry fee: NA
11. Chandipur – Home To Sea Turtles
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 tide recedes up to 5 kilometers, allowing visitors to stroll on the sea floor to gather seashells, red crabs, turtles, and other undersea marine particles.
Places To Stay: HOTEL ASHA NIVAS, International Tourism Resort, Hotel Chandipur, and Shanti Guest House are also options.
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Entry fee: No entry fee
12. Pipli – The Town Known For Handicrafts
This little village in Odisha is well-known around the globe for its craft and handiwork. This town is well-known for its Applique handicrafts. The artists make an excellent job with needlework and color, distinguishing this town in the nation and throughout the globe. If you chance to be in Odisha, stop by this town and purchase some handicrafts and souvenirs. It is one of the most popular. Odisha points of interest.
Key Attractions: Beautiful applique crafts and vibrant bazaars
Places To Stay : Nest Guest House, Royal Orchid Residency
Best Time To Visit : October to January
Entry fee: NA
13. Roopark Village – The Eco-Friendly Resort
This is a lovely resort in the state of Odisha. The location is well-known for its environmental friendliness. If you want to appreciate nature, this should be your first choice. The location provides breathtaking views of the mountains and lush green areas that surround the village resort. While on vacation here, take in the lovely sunsets and vibrant sunrises.
Key Attractions: Roopark Tribal Village Resort
Places To Stay: NOCCi Residency, HOTEL Barjorjis BANJARA, HOTEL AYUSH INTERNATIONAL, HOTEL Royal Suites
Best Time To Visit : October to March
Entry fee: NA
14. Taptapani – The Hot Water Spring
Taptapani is well-known in Odisha for its hot spring. This spring is said to have medical properties, making it a popular tourist destination. There is a pond adjacent to the hot spring where visitors may bathe and benefit from the hot spring’s medical characteristics. It is one of the most popular. Odisha tourist places.
Key Attractions: Hot springs on a hill surrounded by dense vegetation
Places To Stay: Srinivas Residency, Hotel Ganesh Bhavan, Nirmalya’s Maharaja, Hotel Bhawani Palace
Best Time To Visit : October to March
15. Atri – The Place To Relax
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: The Government of Odisha maintains hot springs and a bathing facility.
Places To Stay : Hotel Landmark, Hotel Suryamukhi
Best Time To Visit : October to February
Entry fee: No entry fee
16. Baripada – Cultural Centre Of Odisha
Baripada is an Odisha cultural center in the Mayurbhanj district. It is one of the most well-known for its art and culture. tourist places at Odisha . There are also several Ollywood talents rising from the Odisha town of Baripada. The town also has its own dance style, known as the Chhau dance, which is well-known around the globe.
Key Attractions: Mayurbhanj Palace, Maa Ambika Temple, and Shri Jagannath Temple
Places To Stay: The Belgadia Palace
Best Time To Visit: October to June
Entry fee: NA
17. Gopalpur – The Beautiful Port Town
If you like port towns, Gopalpur is the place to be. This town lies in the state’s south, on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. It is one of the best. tourist places of Odisha . The town is a port city with well-known beaches. On your next vacation to Odisha, go beach hopping in this Odisha town and rest and relax on one of the beaches.
Key Attractions: Gopalpur Beach, Dhabaleshwar Beach, Gopalpur Sea Beach, and Haripur Sea Beach are all popular destinations.
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
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. 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: Brahmapur’s Kedareswar Temple, Thakurani Temple, Bhairabi Temple, and Biju Patnaik Park
Places To Stay: Hotel Ganesh Bhavan, Nirmalya’s Maharaja, Hotel Bhawani Palace, Hotel Bhubaneswari Classic
Best Time To Visit: October to June
Entry fee: NA
19. Dhauli – The Land Of Peace Pagoda
Dhauli is located on the banks of the Daya River, about 8 kilometers from Bhubaneshwar. This location is significant because of the Kalinga War, which is said to have taken place atop Dhauli Hill. There is a well-known Shanti Stupa here that draws people from all around. It also elevates Dhauli to the ranks of the renowned. 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 are all worth a visit.
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
20. Daringbadi – The Hill Town
Daringbadi is the place to go if you’re wondering whether Odisha has any hill stations. It is among 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 are all nearby attractions.
Places To Stay: Utopia Resort
Best Time To Visit: September to May
Entry fee: NA
21. Talasari Beach – Relax Under The Sun
This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Odisha, situated in the Baleswar district, around 10 kilometers from Digha. Surrounded by natural surroundings, this beach is regarded one of the hidden beaches, adding to the charm of the location. Away from the crowds, this beach is surrounded by sand dunes, palm trees, and cashew trees. It is one of the most well-known. Odisha tourist places.
Key Attractions: Shankarpur, Digha
Places To Stay: Ditto Room Odisha Guest House, Cozy Inn, Hotel New Digha International, and Cygnett Lite New Digha are also excellent choices.
Best Time To Visit: October to December
Entry fee: No entry fee only INR 40 for a boat ride
22. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary – Enjoy The Wilderness
This wildlife sanctuary is one of the greatest in the world, covering an area of 795.52 square kilometers. places to visit in Orissa . This location, located by the Mahanadi river and surrounded by beautiful foliage, is home to a diverse range of wild animals, birds, and plants. Tigers, gaurs, simbal, four-horned antelopes, sloths, gharial, and simbal may all be seen.
Key Attractions : The variety of wildlife, trees and forests
Places To Stay: Bluebay 08 satkosia Tarava, Bluebay 05 satkosia Baliput, and Bluebay 07 satkosia Purunakote
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry fee: INR 100 per head/day
23. Rayagada – The Land Of Historical Gems
This is an Odisha district recognized for its rich history and a diverse culture that is worth exploring. This location is also known for preserving the native tribal culture. Aside from historical sites, there are great restaurants, handicrafts, and handcrafted items. This emerging attraction, located on the South Eastern border, is frequented by visitors every year. This location’s legacy originates from the Mauryan empire, making it one of the greatest. 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: NA
24. Shree Jagannath Temple: Witness the famous Rath Yatra
This temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, is significant in Hinduism. This temple in Puri is famed for its Ratha Yatra, also known as the chariot festival, which takes place every year. It is one of four Dhamas (holy locations) in India: Puri, Dwarika, Rameshwaram, and Badrinath. It is unquestionably at the top of our list of things to see in Orissa.
Key attractions: Sakshi-Gopala temple, Alarnatha temple, Konark Sun Temple
Places to stay: Madhusmruti, Mayfair waves, Judges court
Best time to visit: June to March
Entry fee: INR 5 per person
25. Lingaraja Temple: The oldest and the largest temple in the city
It is one of the city’s oldest and biggest temples, located in Bhubaneshwar. It was established in the 11th century by King Yayati and dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, made in red stone, is a famous example of Kalinga architecture. Swayambhu (self-originating Shivling) is the name of the temple. The temple grounds are split into four sections: Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum), Yajna Shala (prayer hall), Bhoga Mandap (offering hall), and Natya Shala (dancing hall).
Key attractions: Baitala temple, Rajarani temple, Mukteshwara temple
Places to stay: Swosti premium hotel, Lemon tree premier
Best time to visit: January and March
Entry fee: No entry fee
26. Chilika Lake: Largest brackish water lake
Chilika Lake is the biggest brackish water lake in Orissa, including districts such as Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam. It is one of the world’s biggest lagoons, and it was designated as the first Indian wetland of international significance. It is the most frequented tourist destination in Odisha and is home to a significant number of migratory species of birds.
Key attractions: Satapada, Kalijai Temple, Rambha Bay
Places to stay: Daveen Chilika resort, Swosti Chilika resort, and Chilika Island resort
Best time to visit: October to March
Entry fee: INR 10 per person
27. Simlipal National Park: Witness the famous Bengal Tiger
Simlipal Nationa Park is a tiger reserve and a national park in Odisha’s Mayurbanj district. It is India’s seventh biggest national park and has been a member of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2009. This national park, which is home to Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, Chausingha, and gaur, earned its name from the quantity of red silk cotton trees that thrive in the region.
Key attractions: Devkund waterfall, Ramatirtha, Chahala
Places to stay: Aranya Nivas Lulung, Similipal Khairi resort, Similipal hotel
Best time to visit: October to May
Entry fee: NA
28. Hirakud Dam: The longest dam in India
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, and Huma Temple are all worth a visit.
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
These caverns, which are located in Bhubaneshwar and exhibit the finest of Jain and Buddhist culture, are artistically designed with murals and patterns. These caverns are said to have been inhabited by Jain academics. These caverns have sculptures of the twenty-four Jain Tirthankars and are home to 15 chambers. It is unquestionably a must-see for all history and art buffs.
Key attractions: Udayagiri Caves, Kedareshwar Temple, and Swarnajaleswar Temple are all worth a visit.
Places to stay: Hotel Hindustan International Bhubaneshwar, The Presidency
Best time to visit: November to March
Entry fee: INR 15 per person
30. Satkosia Tiger Reserve: Explore the diverse flora and fauna
Satkosia Tiger Reserves, located in Odisha’s Angul district, is India’s finest ecology. This location is noted for its panoramic attractiveness and spectacular natural beauty, as well as its rich flora and fauna. It includes two Odisha sanctuaries, Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary and Baisipalli Sanctuary. It is one of the most well-known Odisha tourist attractions.
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)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tourist Places In Odisha
Is it safe to go to Odisha in light of the current situation?
It is safe to visit to Odisha if you follow all of the government’s mandated recommendations and safety precautions. You should take the following precautions:
1. Putting on masks and gloves in public.
2. Keeping social distance
3. Regularly sanitize your hands
4. Avoiding congested areas
5. If you have any symptoms, get checked right away.
What is Orissa famous for?
Orissa is well-known for its temples, beaches, street cuisine, rivers, and mountainous landscapes. Furthermore, the state has a lot to offer, with something for every kind of traveler.
What is the best time to visit Odisha?
The winter season, from October to March, is the finest time to visit Odisha, particularly in November, December, and January. We do not encourage traveling during the summer season, which runs from April to May, since it is very dry and hot. The monsoon season begins in June and lasts until September.
How can I reach Orissa?
If flying, the Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar is the best option for getting to Oriss. Otherwise, the state is well linked to the rest of the nation by a train network and roadways.
What is Odisha’s famous food?
Some popular meals in Odisha include Chhena Podo (burnt cheese), Chaat, Rasgulla, Gupchup, and Pakhala Bhata.
Name a few beaches in Odisha?
Aryapalli beach, Konark beach, Puri beach, Chandipur beach, Ramchandi beach, and Paradeep beach are some of the beaches in Odisha.
Which city in Odisha has the most temples?
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, Odisha has several wildlife sanctuaries, including Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Satkosia Tiger Reserve, Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary, Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, and others.
How many days are enough for Puri?
To really appreciate Puri’s splendor, plan on staying at least four days. However, the number of days required will be determined on the destinations you choose to visit.
How many national parks are there in Odisha?
Odisha has three main national parks: Bhitarkanika National Park, Sanjay National Park, and Simlipal National Park.
