Coastal Odisha Travel Guide

Explore the culturally significant and natural attractions of Coastal Odisha with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best things to do, where to stay and what to try in terms of food and local culture.


Introduction to Coastal Odisha

Coastal Odisha is a breathtakingly beautiful region located in the eastern part of India. The region is blessed with pristine beaches, ancient temples, and culturally significant towns that are a must-visit. The region is also known for its warm and hospitable people, creating an unforgettable travelling experience for visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Coastal Odisha

If you’re planning a trip to Coastal Odisha, here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Puri Jagannath Temple - Located in the town of Puri, it is one of the most prominent Hindu temples in India and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
  • Chilika Lake - A brackish water lagoon, Chilika lake is the largest coastal lagoon in India and is the home to numerous species of birds and sea creatures.
  • Konark Sun Temple - This temple is dedicated to the Sun God, and is renowned for its exquisite architecture.
  • Mukteswara Temple - This temple is a fine example of Mukteswara architecture and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves - the caves are a group of artificial caves, created by Jain monks.

Natural Attractions of Coastal Odisha: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Satapada Dolphin Sanctuary - A sanctuary for dolphins amidst the beautiful Chilika lake.
  • Simlipal National Park - A national park that is famous for being a tiger reserve that has a wide range of flora and fauna.
  • Nandankanan Zoological Park - A zoological park that is home to a variety of animals and birds, it also includes a botanical garden and a lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coastal Odisha

Coastal Odisha offers some of the best trekking and biking trails amidst its lush forests and hilly terrains. Some of the best routes to explore this region are:

  • Daringbadi: Known as the “Kashmir of Odisha” for its hilly terrain and breathtaking natural beauty.
  • Satkosia Gorge: A river gorge located in the Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary and is known for its trekking routes.
  • Mahendragiri: A trekking destination that offers panoramic views of the region.

Best Things to Do in Coastal Odisha: Activities and Tours

When in Coastal Odisha, these are some of the best things to do:

  • Visit the Puri Jagannath temple and Chilika Lake
  • Go on a jeep safari in Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Enjoy water sports activities at Puri beach
  • Go dolphin spotting at Satapada Dolphin Sanctuary
  • Explore the local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs

Week-Long Itinerary for Coastal Odisha

Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring Coastal Odisha:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Puri and visit the Puri Jagannath temple.
  • Day 2: Explore Konark Sun Temple and visit Chilika Lake for the evening.
  • Day 3 and 4: Trek in Mahendragiri followed by visiting the Satapada Dolphin Sanctuary.
  • Day 5: Visit the Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar.
  • Day 6: Explore the ancient caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri.
  • Day 7: Visit the local markets in Puri to shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Food and Drink Scene of Coastal Odisha

Must-Try Dishes

Odisha cuisine is unique, and you must try some of these dishes when visiting Coastal Odisha:

  • Chhenapoda - A dessert made from milk and paneer.
  • **Chhena Poda **- A speciality dessert from Puri.
  • Dalma - A lentil soup with vegetables and spices.
  • Seafood - Fresh fish and seafood are a must-try in coastal Odisha.

Local Beverages

  • Chaas - A refreshing yogurt drink popular in summer months.
  • Palm Wine - An alcoholic drink made from palm sap.

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

You can find a wide range of accommodation options in Coastal Odisha, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some recommended options:

  • Mayfair Waves, Puri
  • Sterling Puri
  • Swosti Grand, Bhubaneswar
  • Ginger, Bhubaneswar

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

When in Coastal Odisha, these are some of the souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

  • Traditional handicrafts made from paper mache and handloom.
  • Pattachitra paintings and sculptures.
  • Sea-salt and palm sap products.

Local Culture and Customs of Coastal Odisha

The culture of Coastal Odisha is rich and unique, with its roots in the ancient Kalinga Empire. The locals are warm and hospitable, and their customs reflect their rich cultural heritage. During your visit, ensure that you respect their customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Coastal Odisha

The best time to visit Coastal Odisha is between October and March, when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, if you’re a fan of monsoons, you can plan your visit between July to September when the region experiences heavy rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coastal Odisha

Do:

  • Respect the culture and customs of the locals
  • Carry appropriate clothing and gear for the trekking routes.
  • Try local cuisine and seafood.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in religiously significant places.
  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Speak or behave rudely with the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coastal Odisha

Coastal Odisha is a relatively safe region to travel to. However, it’s always recommended to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, especially during treks and outdoor activities.

Health in Coastal Odisha

Ensure that you carry a basic first-aid kit when going on treks or outdoor activities in the region. Additionally, carry water bottles and insect repellents to avoid dehydration and insect bites. It’s always recommended that you have travel insurance before embarking on any travel to Odisha.

Getting to Coastal Odisha: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Coastal Odisha

The nearest airport to Coastal Odisha is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. It’s well-connected to major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

Bus Stations Near Coastal Odisha

Puri and Bhubaneswar have bus stations that connect to major cities in the region.

Other Options

You can also travel to Coastal Odisha via rail. The major railway stations are located in Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Cuttack.

How to Get Around in Coastal Odisha

You can opt for rented cars, bikes, or auto-rickshaws to travel within Coastal Odisha.

Where to Go Next from Coastal Odisha: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to visit nearby destinations, you must explore the following:

  • Gopalpur-On-Sea
  • Daringbadi
  • Chandipur

Conclusion

Coastal Odisha is an ideal holiday destination for both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil getaway. From natural beauty and ancient temples to local delicacies and warm hospitality, Coastal Odisha offers an immersive travel experience. So pack your bags and head over to this paradise in the east!



    Balasore
    Bhubaneswar
    Brahmapur
    Chilika Lake
    Jagatsinghpur
    Jaleswar
    Kendrapara
    Konark
    Kuruma