Balasore Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and travel tips for the charming coastal town of Balasore in Eastern India.


Balasore is a coastal town nestled in Odisha, Eastern India, that boasts of pristine beaches, cultural landmarks, and natural attractions. If you are planning a trip to Odisha, be sure to include Balasore in your itinerary, as this charming town will mesmerize you with its beauty and allure. Whether you crave adventure, seek solace, or want to explore the local culture, Balasore has something to offer to everyone. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide for Balasore to help you plan your next vacation:

Introduction to Balasore

Balasore, also known as Baleshwar, is situated in the northern part of Odisha, near the border with West Bengal. The town is popular for its golden beaches and historical significance. Balasore has an old-world charm, which will enchant you with its idyllic temples, forts, and palaces. The town provides an authentic glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Odisha, with its intricate architecture, artwork, and traditions.

List of Places to Visit in Balasore

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Remuna: Visit the beautiful Khirachora Gopinath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and attend the enchanting ‘bhajan’ sessions.
  • Chandipur Beach: Spend a relaxing day at this unique beach, as the water recedes up to 5km during low tide, leaving beautiful patterns on the sand.
  • Panchalingeswar Temple: Explore this beautiful temple located in the lush green hills, surrounded by beautiful cascading waterfalls.
  • Biranchi Narayan Temple: Visit this 13th-century temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, which is famous for its exquisite carvings and intricate designs.
  • Jagannath Temple: Marvel at the beauty of this 18th-century temple, which is the epitome of Odisha’s art and architecture.

Natural Attractions of Balasore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Simlipal National Park: Take a wildlife safari and witness the exotic flora and fauna of this beautiful national park.
  • Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore this sanctuary, which is home to tigers, elephants, and other endangered species.
  • Chandaneswar: Trek to the beautiful Chandaneswar Hill, which is not only a pilgrimage site but also offers a stunning view of the Balasore coastline.
  • Sajanagarh Biological Park: Visit this beautiful park, which houses numerous species of plants, animals, and birds, and a serene lake where you can go boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Balasore

  • Jaleswar-Balasore-Bhadrak Route: Hike or bike along this scenic route, which offers a beautiful view of the countryside, verdant fields, and local villages.
  • Chandaneswar Trek: Trek through the beautiful Chandaneswar hill, which features picturesque landscapes, adventurous trails, and scenic viewpoints.

Best Things to Do in Balasore: Activities and Tours

  • Beach Day: Spend a whole day at the Chandipur Beach, relax under the sun, and enjoy the serene ambiance of the beach.
  • City Tour: Hire a local guide and explore the significant landmarks of Balasore, such as temples, forts, and museums.
  • Wildlife Safari: Take a jungle safari in the nearby national parks and wildlife sanctuaries and witness the exotic flora and fauna.

Week-Long Itinerary for Balasore

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Balasore and visit the Biranchi Narayan Temple and Jagannath Temple
Day 2 Spend a day at Chandipur Beach and witness the low-tide phenomena
Day 3 Trek to Chandaneswar and visit the famous Chandaneswar Temple
Day 4 Take a wildlife safari at Simlipal National Park
Day 5 Visit the Panchalingeswar Temple and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls
Day 6 Explore the city of Balasore and visit the Remuna and Sajanagarh Biological Park
Day 7 Depart from Balasore and travel to the next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Balasore

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood: Try the delectable seafood such as prawns, crabs, and fishes, which are fresh and cooked with local spices.
  • Chhenapoda: Try this famous dessert made with paneer, ghee, and sugar, which is unique to Odisha.
  • Dalma: Savor this traditional Odisha dish made with dal, vegetables, and spices which is both healthy and delicious.

Local Beverages

  • Tari: Quench your thirst with this popular local drink made from the sap of the toddy palms.
  • Coconut Water: Try the refreshing coconut water, which is readily available throughout the town.

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

  • Panthanivas Balasore: A comfortable government-run hotel located on the outskirts of Balasore
  • Hotel Sand Pebbles Balasore: A prime location hotel with clean, spacious, and comfortable rooms.
  • Hotel Bhammars Inn Balasore: A budget-friendly hotel which offers clean and simple rooms.

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

  • Tussar Silk Sarees: Purchase some exquisite Tussar Silk sarees, which are famous for their intricate designs and elegant look.
  • Palm Leaf Crafts: Get some unique handicrafts made of palm leaves, such as mats, baskets, and bags, which are excellent souvenirs to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Balasore

Balasore is known for its rich cultural heritage, its love for art, and its fascination with nature. The people are friendly, hospitable, and proud of their traditions. Many of the cultural festivals, such as Durga Puja, Rath Yatra, and Holi, are celebrated with great enthusiasm and fanfare.

Best Time to Visit Balasore

The best time to visit Balasore is during the winter season, from November to February, as the weather is mild and perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summers are sweltering, and monsoons bring heavy rainfall, which might disrupt your travel plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of Balasore

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress appropriately while visiting religious sites
  • Bargain at the local markets

Don’t:

  • Misbehave with the locals
  • Litter and pollute the environment
  • Photograph people without their consent

Safety and Health

Safety in Balasore

Balasore is a safe town, but it’s best to take precautions while traveling, such as avoiding deserted places at night, carrying a copy of your ID, and not flaunting your valuables in public.

Health in Balasore

It’s always advisable to carry the necessary medications and consult your doctor before traveling to Balasore. The town has government hospitals and private clinics to cater to medical emergencies.

Getting to Balasore: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Balasore

The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is located 212 kilometers from Balasore. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Bhubaneswar to reach Balasore.

Bus Stations Near Balasore

Balasore has a bus stop, and numerous buses operate to and from the town. You can also take a bus to Balasore from Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, and other cities in eastern India.

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi, take a train, or drive down to Balasore, as the town is well-connected to major cities in India.

How to Get Around in Balasore

The best way to get around in Balasore is to hire a taxi or rent a bike. Auto-rickshaws are also a common mode of transportation but be sure to agree on the fare before the ride.

Where to Go Next from Balasore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Puri: Visit the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri and relax at the scenic Puri Beach.
  • Konark: Explore the Sun Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and admire the stunning architecture.
  • Simlipal National Park: Go on a wildlife safari and witness the beauty of this unspoiled national park.

Conclusion

Balasore is a hidden gem in Eastern India, waiting to be explored. It’s a perfect getaway for travelers looking for a mix of history, culture, and nature. The town is welcoming, diverse, and vibrant, which will leave you awe-inspired. Plan your trip to Balasore by using this comprehensive travel guide and experience the charm of this coastal town for yourself.