Odisha is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, ancient temples, scenic beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries. Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, is a state known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, ancient temples, and diverse wildlife. It is a land of history, spirituality, adventure, and scenic beauty, making it one of the most unique travel destinations in India.
Best Travel Destinations in Odisha for 2025
🌍 Geographic Overview
- Capital: Bhubaneswar
- Coastline: 480 km along the Bay of Bengal
- Neighboring States: West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh
- Major Rivers: Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani
🌿 Natural Beauty & Wildlife
- Odisha is home to Chilika Lake, the largest coastal lagoon in India, known for migratory birds and Irrawaddy dolphins.
- Simlipal National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a paradise for wildlife lovers.
- The Bhitarkanika Mangroves house India’s largest population of saltwater crocodiles.
- The Eastern Ghats in Odisha offer beautiful hill stations like Daringbadi (Odisha’s “Kashmir”).
🏛️ Cultural & Historical Significance
- Odisha is known as the “Land of Temples”, with over 700 temples in Bhubaneswar alone.
- The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the Char Dham pilgrimages and hosts the world-famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival).
- The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases Odisha’s architectural brilliance.
- Odisha has a rich tribal heritage, with over 60 tribal communities preserving ancient traditions, dance forms, and handicrafts.
🎭 Festivals & Traditions
- Rath Yatra (Puri): A grand annual chariot festival dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
- Durga Puja: Celebrated with grandeur, especially in Cuttack with its silver filigree decorations.
- Bali Jatra (Cuttack): A festival celebrating Odisha’s ancient maritime trade.
- Konark Dance Festival: A showcase of classical Odissi dance in front of the Sun Temple.
🍛 Famous Cuisine
- Dalma: Lentil and vegetable curry.
- Pakhala Bhata: Fermented rice with curd and water (summer delicacy).
- Chhena Poda: A caramelized cottage cheese dessert.
- Seafood Specialties: Prawn Malai Curry, Crab Curry.
🚆 Connectivity & Transport
- By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar).
- By Rail: Well-connected through major railway stations like Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Cuttack.
- By Road: National highways connect Odisha to major cities like Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Raipur.
1. Bhubaneswar – The Temple City of India
📍 Best Places to Visit:
- Lingaraj Temple – A magnificent 11th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in Bhubaneswar. This whole complex has at least 50 different shrines. Here Lord shiva worshiped as Harahara. Here the shiva linga is to believe as swayambhu shiva linga and it is 8 feet in diameter and 8 inches tall. Lingaraj Temple Timings
The opening and closing timings of Lingraj Temple are 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Monday 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Tuesday 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Wednesday 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Thursday 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Friday 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Saturday 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Sunday 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Aarti and Bhog Timings
Require Time 1-2 hours
Prasad Time, Price 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, 100 rupees
Mangal Aarti time 2:30 PM
Ballav Bhoga time 4:00 AM
Pahili Bhoga time 5:30 AM
Sakala Dhup time 12:00 PM
Madyana Dhup time 3:00 PM
Light Show Time 7:00 PM
Sandhyana Dhup time 7:30 PM
Badasinghar time 10:00 PM
Mahadeep time 10:15 PM
Temple Closing Hour 10:30 PM
Entry Fees Free
- Mukteshwar Temple – Famous for its exquisite carvings and architecture.
Mukteswara Temple Bhubaneswar Entry Fee : No Fee
Mukteswara Temple Bhubaneswar Timings
Day Timing
Monday 6:30 am – 7:30 pm
Tuesday 6:30 am – 7:30 pm
Wednesday 6:30 am – 7:30 pm
Thursday 6:30 am – 7:30 pm
Friday 6:30 am – 7:30 pm
Saturday 6:30 am – 7:30 pm
Sunday 6:30 am – 7:30 pm
- Nandankanan Zoological Park – A wildlife haven with rare white tigers and safaris.
Open for Public Timings
=> From the month of April to September.
It Opened at 7.30 AM and Closed at 17.30 PM
=> From the month of October to March.
It Opened at 8.00 AM and Closed at 17.00 PM
=> It is closed on Every Monday of the week.
- Dhauli Hill – The site of the Kalinga War, with the famous Shanti Stupa.
Dhauli Giri Hills Bhubaneswar Entry Fee
No entry fee
25 per person for Light & Sound Show
10 per person for Students
Dhauli Giri Hills Bhubaneswar Timings
Day Timing
Monday 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tuesday 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wednesday 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Thursday 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sunday 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Light & Sound Show timings are 6:00 pm & 6:45 pm on all days except Mondays
- Ekamra Kanan – A serene botanical garden perfect for nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit: September – March
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Bhubaneswar
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves – Ancient rock-cut caves with Jain heritage.
- Regional Science Centre – An educational yet fun science park for kids.
2. Puri – The Land of Lord Jagannath
📍 Best Time to Visit: October – March
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (60 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Puri Railway Station
Best Places to Visit:
- Jagannath Temple – One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India.
Shree Jagannath Temple Puri Entry Fee
No Entry Fee
Shree Jagannath Temple Puri Timings
Day Timing
Monday 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
Tuesday 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
Wednesday 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
Thursday 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
Friday 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
Shree Jagannath Temple Puri Darshan & Timings
| Rituals | Timings |
| Dwarpitha and Mangal Aarati | 5:00 am |
| Mailam | 6:00 am |
| Abakash | 6:00 am to 6:30 am |
| Mailam | 6:45 am |
| Sahanamela | 7:00 am to 8:00 am |
| Beshalagi | 8:00 am |
| Rosha Homa Surya Puja and Dwarapal | 8:00 am to 8:30 am |
| Gopala Ballava Puja | 9:00 am |
| Sakala Dhupa(Morning food offering)Mailam | 10:00 am |
| Mailam & Bhoga Mandap (2 to 3 times a day) | Madhyanha Dhoop Sandhya Dhoop |
| Madhyanha (Afternoon food offering) | 11:00 am to 1:00 pm |
| Madhyanha Pahudha | 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm |
| Sandhya Aarati | 5:30 pm |
| Sandhya Dhupa | 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm |
| Mailam and Chandana lagi | 8:30 pm |
| Badashringara Vesha | After Chanadana Lagi |
| BadaShringar Laga Bhoga | 9:30 pm to 10:30 pm |
| Khata Seja Lagi and Pahuda | 12:00 am (Midnight) |
- Puri Beach – Ideal for sunrise views and local seafood.
Puri Beach Entry Fee
No Entry Fee.
Puri Beach Timings
| Day | Timing |
| Monday | 5:00 am – 10:00 pm |
| Tuesday | 5:00 am – 10:00 pm |
| Wednesday | 5:00 am – 10:00 pm |
| Thursday | 5:00 am – 10:00 pm |
| Friday | 5:00 am – 10:00 pm |
| Saturday | 5:00 am – 10:00 pm |
| Sunday | 5:00 am – 10:00 pm |
- Chilika Lake (Satapada) – A paradise for bird watchers and dolphin sightings.
- Konark Sun Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with mesmerizing architecture.
Opening Time : 10:00 AM Closing Time : 05:00 PM
Closed ON : Friday Saturday Closed on public holidays : No
Entery fee : US $ 5 or Rs. 250/- per head Authorization : No
Contact No : 06758 236822
Seasonal Feature : The Best time to visit is from November to February, 5 december to 1 week konark beach festival
- Raghurajpur Artist Village – A heritage village known for Pattachitra paintings.
Raghurajpur Artist Village Puri Timings
Day Timing
Monday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Tuesday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Wednesday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Thursday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Saturaday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Sunday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Baliharachandi Beach – A secluded and pristine beach near Puri.
- Sea Turtle Nesting at Rushikulya – A must-visit during the Olive Ridley turtle season.
3. Cuttack – The Silver City of Odisha
📍 Best Places to Visit:
- Barabati Fort – The ruins of a historic fort with a scenic view.
- Dhabaleswar Temple – A beautiful island temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Dhabaleswar Temple Cuttack Darshan Timing
Temple Darshan Timing Day
Morning Hours 05:00 AM to 12:30 PM Monday to Sunday
Evening Hours 01:00 PM to 09:00 PM Monday to Sunday
Dhabaleswar Temple Aarti, Pooja & Abhishek Timings
Aarti/ Pooja/ Ahhishekam Timings Days
Morning Pooja 05:00 AM to 12:30 PM Monday to Sunday
Afternoon Aarti 01:00 PM to 04:00 PM Monday to Sunday
Evening Pooja 04:00 PM to 07:00 PM Monday to Sunday
Night Pooja 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM Monday to Sunday
Abhiseka 07:00 AM to 12:00 PM Monday to Sunday
Aarti ( Morning) 05:00 AM to 12:30 PM Monday to Sunday
Aarti (Evening) 01:00 PM to 09:00 PM Monday to Sunday
Dhabaleswar Temple Cuttack Attractions
A big fair is held on the shukla paksha chaturdashi of the month Kartika called Bada-Osha
On the occasion of Shivaratri, this temple looks completely different.
Various functions like Shivaratri, Pausha Purnima, Dola Purnima, and Kartika Purnima are celebrated here.
- Netaji Birthplace Museum – The ancestral home of Subhash Chandra Bose.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM, Closed on Sundays
Entry: Rs. 10 for Adults & Rs. 5 for Children
- Mahanadi Barrage – A perfect spot for evening relaxation.
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Ansupa Lake – A tranquil freshwater lake for boating and birdwatching.
- Deojhar Waterfall – A less crowded waterfall near Cuttack.
4. Konark – The Architectural Marvel
📍 Best Places to Visit:
- Konark Sun Temple – A 13th-century temple shaped like a chariot.
- Chandrabhaga Beach – A clean and serene beach near the Sun Temple.
- ASI Museum – A collection of sculptures and relics from the Konark Temple.
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Ramachandi Beach – A peaceful alternative to Puri Beach.
- Kuruma Buddhist Site – Lesser-known ancient Buddhist ruins.
5. Sambalpur – The Cultural Hub of Western Odisha
📍 Best Places to Visit:
- Hirakud Dam – One of the longest dams in the world.
- Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary – A great place for trekking and wildlife spotting.
Opening and Closing time of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Monday 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Tuesday 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Wednesday 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Thursday 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Friday 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Saturday 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Sunday 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Entry Ticket Pricing for Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Adult INR 50
Child INR 25
- Samaleswari Temple – A significant religious site dedicated to Maa Samaleswari.
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Gudguda Waterfalls – A mesmerizing and hidden waterfall.
- Leaning Temple of Huma – A unique leaning Shiva temple.
6. Balasore – The Coastal Beauty
📍 Best Places to Visit:
- Chandipur Beach – Famous for its disappearing sea phenomenon.
- Panchalingeswar Temple – A scenic temple on Nilagiri Hills.
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary – A perfect spot for nature lovers.
Guide Charges: Rs.500 per car
Safari timings: 5am – 7am. 4pm – 6:30pm
Car entry permit charges: Rs.200 per car. Entry permit for cars are available at the gate of Kuldia Forest Range Office or Balianal Forest Check Gate.
Note: Timings, Car permit charges and Guide charges may change according to season.
7. Rourkela – The Steel City
📍 Best Places to Visit:
- Hanuman Vatika – Home to a giant Hanuman statue.
- Vaishno Devi Temple – A replica of the famous Jammu shrine.
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Darjeeng Picnic Spot – A serene getaway by the Brahmani River.
8. Berhampur – The Silk City
📍 Best Places to Visit:
- Gopalpur Beach – A less crowded and beautiful beach.
- Taptapani Hot Springs – A natural hot water spring with medicinal properties.
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Mahurikalua Temple – A peaceful and hidden temple in the hills.
9. Daringbadi – The Kashmir of Odisha
📍 Best Places to Visit:
- Daringbadi Hill Station – Known for its cool climate and coffee plantations.
- Midubanda Waterfalls – A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
- Hill View Park – A great spot to enjoy panoramic views of the region.
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Belghar Sanctuary – Home to unique tribal communities and wildlife.
- Silent Valley of Odisha – A peaceful nature retreat.
10. Rayagada – The Tribal Heartland
📍 Best Places to Visit:
- Hatipathar Waterfalls – A twin waterfall surrounded by rocky hills.
- Maa Majhighariani Temple – A highly revered temple among locals.
- Chatikona Tribal Market – A vibrant marketplace showcasing the culture of Odisha’s tribal communities.
🔍 Hidden Gems:
- Minajhola – A sacred spot at the confluence of three rivers.
- Puttasingh – A hidden paradise for nature lovers.
Recommendations Based on Interests
🏔️ Adventure Travel in Odisha
- Trekking in Gandhamardan Hills (Balangir & Bargarh) – A thrilling trek filled with mythology and natural beauty.
- White Water Rafting in Satkosia Gorge (Angul) – A thrilling rafting experience on the Mahanadi River.
- Caving in Khandagiri & Udayagiri (Bhubaneswar) – Explore ancient rock-cut caves with inscriptions.
- Wildlife Safari in Simlipal National Park (Mayurbhanj) – Home to tigers, elephants, and waterfalls.
- Paragliding at Daringbadi – Experience the thrill of soaring above Odisha’s only hill station.
🏛️ Heritage & Cultural Travel in Odisha
- Jagannath Temple (Puri) – A must-visit for spiritual seekers.
- Konark Sun Temple (Konark) – A UNESCO World Heritage marvel.
- Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri & Udayagiri Buddhist Sites (Jajpur) – Explore Odisha’s ancient Buddhist heritage.
- Chausath Yogini Temple (Hirapur, near Bhubaneswar) – A rare circular temple dedicated to 64 Yoginis.
- Raghurajpur Artist Village (Puri) – Discover Pattachitra paintings and live art demonstrations.
🌿 Offbeat Travel in Odisha
- Chandipur Beach (Balasore) – Experience the disappearing sea phenomenon.
- Bhitarkanika National Park (Kendrapara) – A mangrove forest with India’s largest population of saltwater crocodiles.
- Talsari Beach (Balasore) – A hidden, unspoiled beach with red crabs.
- Koraput Valley (Koraput) – Experience tribal culture and the scenic Duduma Waterfalls.
- Gopalpur Beach (Berhampur) – A secluded beach perfect for a peaceful retreat.
FAQ’s
1. What is the best time to visit Odisha?
The best time to visit Odisha is October to March when the weather is pleasant. If you want to experience the Rath Yatra in Puri, visit in June or July. For birdwatching at Chilika Lake, visit between November and February.
2. How can I reach Odisha?
- By Air: The main airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (BBI).
- By Train: Major railway stations are in Bhubaneswar, Puri, Cuttack, and Rourkela.
- By Road: Odisha has good connectivity via national highways from Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Raipur.
3. What are the must-visit destinations in Odisha?
- Puri: Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach, Raghurajpur Artist Village
- Bhubaneswar: Lingaraj Temple, Udayagiri Caves, Nandankanan Zoo
- Konark: Sun Temple, Chandrabhaga Beach
- Chilika Lake: Satapada (Dolphin Watching), Nalabana Bird Sanctuary
- Daringbadi: Hill station, waterfalls
- Simlipal National Park: Wildlife & waterfalls
4. Is Odisha safe for tourists?
Yes, Odisha is generally safe for tourists. However, basic precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure are advised.
5. What are some hidden gems in Odisha?
- Talsari Beach (Balasore): A peaceful and unspoiled beach
- Bhitarkanika National Park: Home to saltwater crocodiles and mangrove forests
- Deojhar Waterfall (Cuttack): A scenic and lesser-known waterfall
- Mangalajodi (Chilika): A paradise for birdwatchers
6. What are the best adventure activities in Odisha?
- Trekking: Gandhamardan Hills, Mahendragiri Hills
- Wildlife Safari: Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika
- Water Sports: Surfing at Ramchandi Beach, Boating at Chilika Lake
- Paragliding: Daringbadi (seasonal)
7. What local foods should I try in Odisha?
- Dalma: Lentil and vegetable curry
- Pakhala Bhata: Fermented rice dish (summer special)
- Chhena Poda: A caramelized cottage cheese dessert
- Seafood: Prawns and crabs at Puri Beach
- Rasabali & Chhena Gaja: Traditional sweets
8. What are the top cultural and heritage experiences in Odisha?
- Jagannath Rath Yatra (Puri): A world-famous chariot festival
- Konark Dance Festival: Celebrating Odissi dance and classical music
- Raghurajpur Artist Village: Witness Pattachitra paintings and handicrafts
- Buddhist Circuit: Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri & Udayagiri Buddhist sites
9. What should I pack for my trip to Odisha?
- Summer (March–June): Light cotton clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Monsoon (July–September): Raincoat, umbrella, waterproof footwear
- Winter (October–February): Light woolens, comfortable walking shoes
10. Do I need any permits to visit certain places in Odisha?
For most tourist places, no special permits are required. However, for Simlipal National Park and Bhitarkanika, you may need prior permission, which can be arranged online or at the entry points.
Conclusion:
Odisha is a land of breath-taking landscapes, rich heritage, and diverse cultural experiences. From the ancient temples of Bhubaneswar and the pristine beaches of Puri to the enchanting Chilika Lake and the lush forests of Simlipal, the state offers something for every traveler. Whether you seek spiritual solace, adventure, or a rendezvous with nature, Odisha is a destination that never disappoints. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the hidden gems of this incredible state, leaving you with memories to cherish forever!
