Odisha Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, bike, and eat in Odisha, India. Learn about the local culture and customs, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Odisha

Odisha, also known as Orissa, is a state in Eastern India, bordered by the Bay of Bengal to the east. The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cuisine. Odisha is home to several ancient temples, museums, and outdoor adventure activities that attract tourists from around the world.

List of Places to Visit in Odisha

Whether you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, Odisha has something for everyone. Here is a list of some of the top attractions to visit in Odisha.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Konark Sun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 13th century, famous for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.

  • Jagannath Temple: A famous temple in Puri dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

  • Dhauli Hill and Shanti Stupa: A popular Buddhist pilgrimage site, which is also famous for the Kalinga War that took place in 261 BCE.

  • Lingaraj Temple: A popular Hindu temple located in Bhubaneswar, built during the 11th century.

  • Orissa State Museum: Located in Bhubaneswar and known for its impressive collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and paintings.

Natural Attractions of Odisha: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chilika Lake: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, famous for its migratory birds, dolphins, and scenic views.

  • Simlipal National Park: A natural habitat for several endangered species such as tigers, elephants, and crocodiles, and home to several waterfalls and streams.

  • Chandipur Beach: A unique beach where the water recedes up to 5 km during low tide, offering a unique walking and playing experience.

  • Satkosia Gorge: A stunning gorge carved by the Mahanadi River, offering river rafting, trekking, and camping activities.

  • Nandankanan Zoological Park: A famous zoo located in Bhubaneswar, known for its white tiger safari and large population of reptiles and birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Odisha

Odisha’s natural landscapes and unique geography offer several hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top routes to explore in Odisha:

  • Konark-Puri Marine Drive: A scenic 30 km stretch of road along the coast, offering stunning views of the ocean and several beaches.

  • Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary: A national park offering several hiking trails, wildlife spotting opportunities, and adventure activities.

  • Dhenkanal-Deulajhari: A 41 km route, offering a mix of picturesque natural landscapes, ancient temples, and hot water springs.

  • Satkosia Gorge Trekking Route: A popular trekking route along the Mahanadi river, offering stunning views of waterfalls, gorges, and forests.

Best Things to Do in Odisha: Activities and Tours

Odisha offers a plethora of activities and tours for travelers of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in Odisha:

  • Visit a local market: Explore the bustling markets of Puri and Bhubaneswar, offering a variety of local handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.

  • Take a boat ride: Explore the mangroves and wildlife of Chilika Lake on a scenic boat ride.

  • Attend a cultural festival: Experience the vibrant culture and customs of Odisha through its several cultural festivals such as the Rath Yatra, Durga Puja, and Konark Festival.

  • Take a hot air balloon ride: Soar above the scenic landscapes of Odisha on a hot air balloon.

  • Try local cuisine: Indulge in the delicious and unique cuisine of Odisha, which includes dishes like Pakhala, Chhena Poda, and Dalma.

Week-Long Itinerary for Odisha

A week-long itinerary for Odisha can include the following activities and attractions:

Day 1-2: Explore the historical temples of Bhubaneswar, including the Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswara Temple, and Parasurameswara Temple.

Day 3-4: Visit the scenic Chilika Lake and explore the mangroves, bird sanctuaries, and fishing villages.

Day 5-6: Trek through the Simlipal National Park and take in the stunning natural landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Day 7: Relax at one of the several beaches of Puri or explore the vibrant local markets.

Food and Drink Scene of Odisha

Odisha’s unique cuisine is a mix of different flavors and spices, making it a must-try for food enthusiasts. Here are some of the popular dishes and beverages to try in Odisha:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chhena Poda: A cheese-based dessert, popular in Odisha.

  • Pakhala: A rice dish traditionally eaten with water, yogurt, and salt.

  • Dalma: A lentil-based vegetable stew, popular in eastern India.

  • Rasagola: A popular dessert made of chhena, similar to a soft cheese, and soaked in syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Mahua: A popular local alcohol made from the flowers of the Mahua tree.

  • Chaas: A popular yogurt-based drink, known for its cooling properties.

Where to Stay in Odisha: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Odisha offers several accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the top options to consider:

  • Mayfair Lagoon: A luxury hotel in Bhubaneswar, known for its world-class amenities and stunning architecture.

  • Toshali Sands: A beachfront resort in Puri, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional decor.

  • Bamboo Resort: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in Konark, offering clean rooms and basic amenities.

  • Bunkyard Hostels: A popular hostel chain in Bhubaneswar, offering dormitory-style accommodation and a friendly atmosphere.

What to Buy in Odisha: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Odisha is home to several local handicrafts and products, making it an ideal destination for souvenir shopping. Here are some of the popular items to bring back from Odisha:

  • Pattachitra paintings: Intricately painted cloth-based scrolls known for their bright colors and intricate designs.

  • Dhokra craft: Bronze sculptures made using the lost-wax casting technique, popular in eastern India.

  • Sambhalpuri saris: Handwoven saris made using the traditional ikat dyeing technique, popular in Sambalpur.

Local Culture and Customs of Odisha

Odisha is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its art, cuisine, and festivals. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Clothing: It is advisable to dress in traditional and modest attire while visiting temples and other religious places.

  • Temples: Shoes and leather products are not allowed inside most temples.

  • Festivals: Odisha celebrates several cultural festivals such as Rath Yatra, Durga Puja, and Konark Festival, which offer a glimpse into the vibrant local culture.

Best Time to Visit Odisha

The best time to visit Odisha is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Odisha

Here are some of the basic do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Odisha:

Do:

  • Dress modestly

  • Take off shoes outside temples and other religious places

  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Consume alcohol in public places

  • Disrespect locals or their culture

  • Litter or pollute the environment

Safety and Health

Odisha is a relatively safe location for travelers, but it is advisable to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and healthy trip.

Safety in Odisha

  • Avoid traveling alone at night

  • Keep your valuables safe and secure

  • Be cautious while using public transportation

Health in Odisha

  • Drink bottled water

  • Carry insect repellant

  • Get vaccinated for common diseases like typhoid and hepatitis A

Getting to Odisha: Transportation Options and Logistics

Odisha is well-connected to major cities in India and offers several transportation options for travelers.

Airports Near Odisha

  • Biju Patnaik International Airport: Located in Bhubaneswar, connected to major cities in India and some international destinations.

  • Jharsuguda Airport: Located in Jharsuguda, connected to major cities in India.

Bus Stations Near Odisha

  • Baramunda Bus Stand: Located in Bhubaneswar, well-connected to other cities in Odisha, and some cities in neighboring states.

  • Puri Bus Stand: Connected to several cities in Odisha and some neighboring states.

Other Options

  • Trains: Odisha is well-connected by railways, with several major railway stations, including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri.

  • Taxis: Taxis are easily available for hire, either through mobile apps or by booking through hotels and accommodations.

How to Get Around in Odisha

Odisha offers several transportation options for travelers, including taxis, buses, and trains. Local transportation is also available in the major cities of Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Cuttack.

Where to Go Next from Odisha: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more destinations in India, here are some nearby locations to consider:

  • Visakhapatnam: A coastal city in Andhra Pradesh, known for its beaches and scenic views.

  • Kolkata: A bustling city in West Bengal, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant street food culture.

  • Chilapata Forest: Located in West Bengal, offering wildlife safaris and camping opportunities.

Conclusion

Odisha is a beautiful state in India, offering a mix of stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique cuisine. From exploring ancient temples and museums to trekking through national parks and enjoying local delicacies, Odisha has something for every traveler. Plan your trip to Odisha and experience the unique beauty of Eastern India.

Map of Orissa, India Map of Orissa, India Jagannath Temple, Puri Jagannath Temple, Puri Chennapoda, a cheese dessert from Odisha Chennapoda, a cheese dessert from Odisha


    Coastal Odisha
    Northwest Odisha
    South Odisha