Tourist Places in Odisha

Tourist places in Odisha are very well linked to the rest of India. Both foreign and domestic visitors are lured to the tourist destinations in Odisha. Odisha enables visitors to best experience the delight of an immersive trip. Here is a list of Tourist Places in Odisha.

1. Shri Jagannatha Temple, Puri, Odisha.

The Jagannath Temple is an important Hindu temple dedicated to Jagannath, a form of Vishnu – one of the trinity of supreme divinity in Hinduism. Puri is in the state of Odisha, on the eastern coast of India. The Somavamsa king Indradyumna of Avanti has built the main temple of Lord Jagannath at Puri. The Puri temple is famous Tourist Places in Odisha for its annual Ratha Yatra, or chariot festival, in which the three principal deities are pulled on huge and elaborately decorated temple cars, Worship is performed by the Bhil Sawar tribal priest in the Jagannath temple. How to Reach: By Air The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Air Port at Bhubaneswar 60 Km By Train Nearest Railway Station is Puri 3 Km from Temple. By Road Regular Bus, Taxi, and Auto Services are available from Bhubaneswar and Railway Station at Puri. By Rail, Puri is a major railway junction. Regular direct train services are available from Puri to many cities in India, including Bhubaneshwar, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Patna, etc. DIRECTION

2. Sun Temple Konark

Konark is one of the famous Tourist places in Odisha a well-known tourist attraction of Orissa. Konark, Konark houses a colossal temple dedicated to the Sun God. Even in its ruined state, it is a magnificent temple reflecting the genius of the architects that envisioned and built it. Bhubaneshwar Konark and Puri constitute the Golden Triangle of Orissa, visited in large numbers by pilgrims and tourists. How to Reach: By Air The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Air Port at Bhubaneswar 60 Km. By Train Nearest Railway Station is Puri 35 Km from Railway Station. Puri is a major railway Station By Road Regular Bus, Taxi, and Auto Services are available from Bhubaneswar 60 km away and from Puri is 35 km. DIRECTION

3.Similipal National Park, Mayurbhanj, Odisha (Orissa).

Tourist Places in Odisha, Simlipal Wildlife – Taking its name from the abundance of semul or red silk cotton trees that bloom vividly here, the Simlipal National Park is home to three of India’s biggest animal species –Tiger, Asian Elephant and Gaur. Spread over a sprawling area of 2750 sq. kms, the park is at an altitude of 559.31 meters. Set on a wide expanse of Sal forest, this park is nestled in the very centre of Mayurbhanj, the northernmost district of Orissa. Notable variations in topography, conducive climate and required vegetation has supported large varieties of animals, birds and reptiles to flourish in one of the earliest and finest of India’s 15 Tiger reserves falling under Project Tiger. DIRECTION

4.Sapta Sajya , Dhenkanal, Odisha

One can proceed 12 km in the Sankarpur road from Dhenkanal Bus stop and then turn west at the Badagila chowk and pass two km to reach Saptya Sajya a scenic beauty where the holy temple of Maryada Purusottama Sri Ramachandra is located at about 900 feet at the hilltop. A mountains stream flows down as if touching his holly feet in veneration. Mythologically this place is important and many legends are still available. Its name is Sapta Sajya because, there are seven hills surrounding the area. Again there is story that, the Saptarashi had their ashramas here in this place. DIRECTION

5. Maa Tarini Temple, Ghatagaon, Keonjhar, Odisha.

It is a place of famous pilgrimage center of Odisha. Maa Tarini Temple is raised in modern time, the crude form of deity justify its pristine origin. The legend is that Maa Tarini is merciful and benevolent to her devotees. The nearest forest reserve adding beauty to the Maa Tarini Pitha is the nestling site of different wildlife. Devotees very fondly offer coconut to Goddess is still worshiped by tribal priests. Local people observe Maha Bisuba Sankranti during the month of Chaitra Purnima with great forever & pomp. Visitors within the state & outside of the state throng here in lakhs to pay their respect to Mother Goddess all around the year.  How to Reach: By Air Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is the only civil airport in the state connected to different parts of the country through regular flights By Train Nearest Railway Station Harichandanpur Railway Station-17 K.M. , Kendujhargarh Railway Station – 50 K.M. & Jajpur-Kendujhar Road Railway Station-70 K.M By Road 180 K.Ms from Capital of Odisha-Bhubaneswar & 50 K.Ms from Dist. Headquarter Keonjhar. DIRECTION

6.Daringbadi, Balliguda, Phulbani, Odisha

Anather famous Tourist Places in Odisha Daringbadi is a hill station in Kandhmal district of Odisha state in eastern India. Widely known as “Kashmir of Odisha”, (for its climatic similarity), it is situated at a height of 915 metres and is a popular tourist destination.The temperature level of Daringbadi has often been recorded below 0 °C. It is also famous for its production of superior quality of organic turmeric which already got the G.I. tag. It is also famous for ginger harvesting. DIRECTION

7. Duduma Waterfall, Koraput, Odisha

This horsetail type waterfall is 175 metres (574 ft) in height and is formed by the Machkund river. It has two sub-waterfalls, one on the Odisha side and the other on the Andhra Pradesh side. Duduma is about 92 km from Koraput. Machhakund (Duduma) Hydroelectric Project is located near Duduma Falls. It is a collaborative project between the Government of Andhra Pradesh and the Government of Odisha. The project, consisting of 6 units, has an installed capacity of 120 MW. DIRECTION

8. Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary,
Tikarpada, Angul, Odisha

A little community in the midst of nature’s chaos Tikarapada is strategically located along the Satakosia Gorge. The meandering Mahanadi, running closely between picturesque hills, forms the 22-kilometer-long Mahanadi gorge here. It is regarded as one of the most enthralling sports in the world. The location is great for boating, fishing, and adventure. The forest and hills around the settlement are home to a variety of animals that will captivate tourists. The establishment of a Gharial crocodile Sanctuary nearby has increased the sport’s significance. How to Reach: By Air Nearest Airport is Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhubaneswar. The distance is around 190 km. By Train It is around 190 KMs from State Capital and well connected by Rail. From Angul Railway Station, it is about 62 KMs. By Road It is around 190 KMs from State Capital and well connected DIRECTION

9.Hirakud Dam, Sambalpur, Odisha

Hirakud Dam is built across the Mahanadi River, about 15 kilometres (9 mi) from Sambalpur in the state of Odisha in India. It is the longest earthen dam in the world. Behind the dam extends a lake, Hirakud Reservoir, 55 km (34 mi) long. It is one of the first major multipurpose river valley projects started after India’s independence DIRECTION

10.Kolab Dam, Koraput, Odisha

Kolab Dam is a gravity dam situated near Jeypore town in Koraput district of Odisha, India. The dam impounds Kolab river which is a tributary of Godavari river. Kolab Dam is identified as the most Beautiful natural scenic attraction in Odisha. A Botanical garden named Kolab Park built near the dam has around 200 varieties of Flowering plants. Kolab Power Plant located at an altitude of about 914.4 m (3,000 ft) above sea level, is making this place even more beautiful. Thousands of Tourists are attracted to this place to spend the weekend picnic and boating every year. DIRECTION

11. Rengali Angul, Odisha

A dam has been constructed across the river Brahmani at Rengali. One Hydro electrical power project of 120 MW capacity has been installed here. It is about 85 km from Angul, located on N.H. Rengali is amidst picturesque environs and it is a nice place for group picnics. How to Reach: By Air Nearest Airport is Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhubaneswar. Distance is around 220 Km. By Train Talcher is the nearest railway station. Then by road, it is 65 km from Talcher Station. By Road Rengali is at a distance of 85 km from Angul. Regular bus service is available to Rengali from Angul. Also from Talcher regular Bus service is available which is about 65 KMs from Rengali. DIRECTION

12.Kalijai Temple, Chilika, Odisha

Kalijai Temple is located on an island in Chilika Lake. It is considered to be the abode of the Goddess Kalijai. Highly revered by the local populace, the deity has been venerated in the local folklores and legends. The island provides an excellent destination for pilgrims as well as tourists. Every year in January, a huge gala fair is held during the festival of Makar Sankranti. DIRECTION

13.Nandan Kanan, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Nandankanan Zoological Park is a 400-hectare (990-acre) zoo and botanical garden in Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India. Established in 1960, it was opened to the public in 1979 and became the first zoo in India to join World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) in 2009. It also contains a botanical garden and part of it has been declared a sanctuary. Nandankanan, literally meaning ‘The Garden of Heavens’, is located near the capital city, Bhubaneswar, in the environs of the Chandaka forest, and includes the 134-acre (54 ha) Kanjia Lake. A major upgrade was done during 2000 (after the ruins caused by the super-cyclone of 1999 in coastal Orissa). More than 2 million visitors visit Nandankanan every year. DIRECTION

14.Ghanteswari Temple ,Sambalpur

Maa Ghanteswari Temple is one of the most holiest and beautiful place in Sambalpur. As the name indicates, there are bells (Ghanti) everywhere. People offer bell to Maa after their the fulfillment of their wishes. A large number of pilgrims visit this place everyday from acrooss the state. DIRECTION

15.Kapilash, Dhenkanal

The loftiest peak of Kapilas range enshrines the temple of Lord Shiva, i.e. Chandrasekhar, at a height of about 457 meters. The place is identified with Kailash, the legendary abode of Lord Shiva. A flight of 1,351 steps and a ghat road leads to the temple.  DIRECTION

16.Harishankar and Nrusinghanath, Odisha

Harishankar, a pilgrimage site with unusual visual qualities, is located on the southern slope of the Gandhamardan hills. A perennial stream bursts into droplets as it rushes over its rough granite bank, forming cascades at various points. Harishankar, being a cool resort in the midst of nature, is a great destination to escape the summer heat. A refreshing bath with sliding on the flowing rock provides guests unusual joy. It is claimed that taking a bath in the stream and worshipping Lord Harishankar may cleanse one of all sins, and devotees from all over the country flock here to have their desires granted. Harishankar has a diverse range of flora and animals. A deer park adjacent to Gandhamardan hill is quite popular with tourists. On the occasion of the Baishankha Mela, tourists from all over the world converge to Harishankar. It is also a popular picnic location. Tourists may stay at panthanivas to enjoy Harishankar’s stunning scenic splendour. How to Reach: By Air The Nearest airports are Swami Vivekananda International Airport, Raipur (201 K.M) and Biju Pattnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (248 K.M). A new airport is being constructed at the industrial township of Jharsuguda (179 K.M) & Nearest Air strip is at Jamadarpali (135 K.M) By Train One can reach Balangir by bus or train. By Road One can reach Balangir by bus or train. From Balangir one can visit Harishankar by bus or taxi. DIRECTION

17.LingaRaj Temple, Bhubaneswar, Khurdha, Odisha.

Lingaraj Temple is a Famous temple of Odisha / Orissa, the Hindu god Shiva and is one of the oldest temples of the Temple City Bhubaneswar, a revered pilgrimage center and the capital of the state of Odisha. The temple of Lingaraja, the biggest of all at Bhubaneswar is located within a spacious compound wall of latte rite measuring 520 feet by 465 feet. The wall is 7 feet 6 inches thick and surmounted by a plain slant coping. Alongside the inner face of the boundary wall, there runs a terrace probably meant to protect the compound wall against outside aggression. Bhagaban Lingaraj is half Shiva and half Vishnu. HE is neither worshiped with BEL leaf nor with only TULSI leaf. He is offered with both BEL & TULSI leaves for puja There is one Bow (Dhanush) on top of the temple, unlike other Shiv Temples where TRISHUL is placed on top of the other Shiv temples. The Shibalingam in the sanctum of the Lingaraja temple rises to a height of 8 inches above the floor level and is 8 feet in diameter. The Bhagawati temple is located in the northwest corner of the courtyard. There are several other shrines and temples in this vast courtyard. How to Reach: By Air The Nearest airports are at Bhubaneshwar 05 km. By Train The nearest railway station is Bhubaneswar 10 km . By Road A number of Public Transport , i.e. Buses, Taxi are run from Bhubaneswar. It is 10 KM away from railway station. DIRECTION

18.Deomali (mountain), Koraput

Tourist Places in Odisha, Deomali Peak, with an elevation of about 1,672 m, is the highest peak in the state of Odisha. It is situated near Doodhari village, Pottangi Panchayat division which is about 70  km from Koraput via Semiliguda. It is surrounded by deep green forest, the peak is rich in flora and fauna. This hill range is rich in mineral resources such as bauxite, limestone and gemstones. Deomali is dotted with brooks and deep valleys, and inhabited by tribes such Kandhas, Parajas, Bhumia, Malis and Bhotias. It is not only a marvel for the tourists but also to the adventurous sports lovers for hang gliding, mountaineering and trekking. On this recent days Odisha tourism Department, is taking many development steps to popularize this peak amongst the travellers as a hot tourist spot by connecting the Tar roads, Hill top amenities centre, drinking water points on the hill top, watching towers for perfect view of the arena. Many waterfalls also found while heading for the top of hill. DIRECTION

19.Bhitarkanika National Park

Bhitarkanika National Park is a 145 km2 (56 sq mi) large national park in northeast Kendrapara district in Odisha in eastern India. It was designated on 16 September 1998 and obtained the status of a Ramsar site on 19 August 2002. The area is also been designated as second Ramsar site of the State after the Chilika Lake. It is surrounded by Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, which spread over 672 km2 (259 sq mi). Gahirmatha Beach and Marine Sanctuary are to the east, separating swamp region and mangroves from the Bay of Bengal. The national park and wildlife sanctuary is inundated by the rivers Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra, Pathsala. It hosts many mangrove species, and is the second largest mangrove ecosystem in India. The national park is home to Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), Indian python, king cobra, black ibis, darters and many other species of flora and fauna. DIRECTION

20.Ansupa Lake

Ansupa Lake is a 231-hectare (570-acre) horseshoe-shaped fresh water oxbow lake on the left bank of the Mahanadi river, opposite Banki in Cuttack district, Odisha, India. It is 40 km (25 mi) from the city of Cuttack. It is a fresh water lake situated amidst the Saranda Hills and enclosed by bamboo tree greenery and mango trees and acts as a shelter for the migratory birds in the wintry weather season. There are boating and fishing facilities. DIRECTION

21. Kandahar Waterfall, Rourkela

Kandahar is the fourth highest waterfall in India which falls from a height of 244mt.This beautiful waterfall is situated at a distance of about 114 kms from Rourkela.This waterfall gets its root from the perennial Korapani Nala. DIRECTION

22.Satpada, Puri

Satpada is located at the northeast cape of Chilika Lake and Bay of Bengal. The famous Chilika dolphins can be seen in their natural best here. There are also ample opportunities for canoeing, kayaking and boating. A small island called Rajahamsa is situated near this place at the mouth of the lagoon. It is named after the rajahamsa (mute swan). This island is 18 kilometers from Satapada. Rajahans is a small strip of land of which one side is placed near the lagoon and the other side is towards the Bay of Bengal. DIRECTION

23.Chilika Lake 

Chilika Lake is a brackish water lagoon, spread over the Puri, Khordha and Ganjam districts of Odisha state on the east coast of India, at the mouth of the Daya River, flowing into the Bay of Bengal, covering an area of over 1,100 square kilometres (420 sq mi). It is the biggest lake in India after Vembanad Lake. This lake is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the largest brackish water lagoon in the world. DIRECTION

24.Bhimkund, Kendujhar

Bhimkund is a beautiful natural water reservoir on the River Baitarani. It is located exactly on the boundary line between the districts Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj, at a distance of about 100 km from Keonjhar. This reservoir is two storeyed which resulted into the formation of two waterfalls one above another. It is being told that, Bhima, the second Pandava had taken bath in this reservoir and hence it was named after him.During Makar Festival in the month of January thousands of people gather here to take their holy dip. DIRECTION

25. Gopalpur Sea Beach

Gopalpur-on-sea is one of the most pristine and popular beaches in Odisha, India. It is located at a distance of around 16 kilometers from the town of Berhampur. Clusters of palm and coconut trees, sand dunes covered with casuarinas plantation divide the beach from the sea water which work as a complete setting for quiet conviviality and introspection. The sea and the golden sand makes it one of the highly sought after beaches in India. Good accommodation options in serene and clam atmosphere turns it into a favored holiday destination. Bathing and surfing in the sea waters with the assistance from nolias can be a great experience. DIRECTION

26. Chandipur Sea Beach

Chandipur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The sea beaches of Chandipur have succeeded in attracting tourists from all over the world. The Chandipur beach has its own unique character which sets it apart from all other beaches of India. DIRECTION

27.Hanuman Vatika, Rourkela,Sundergarh, Odisha.

Hanuman Vatika named after one of the highest statue of Hanuman. Inaugurated in the year 1994 by the then Chief Minister of Orissa, Biju Patnaik. Here a statue of Hanuman is constructed with the height of 75 feet. There are also a number of temples named as Bata Managla, Binayak, Vaishnodevi, Sarala, Dwadash Linga, Siva, Santoshi Maa, Maa Laxmi etc constructed here for the devotees. Because of beauty scenario and green area, number of general visitors came to this place every day here. How to Reach: By Air Nearest Airport is Ranchi By Train Nearest Railway Station is Rourkela By Road Just 5–6 km from Rourkela railway station. DIRECTION

28.Gupteswar temple, Gupteswar, Jeypore, Koraput, Odisha.

Lord Gupteswar meaning Hidden God, is a cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Gupteswar is located in a small town Jeypore in Koraput district of Odisha. The Siva Lingam is 2m high. It is called Gupteswar(Hidden God) as it was liying hidden for a long time. This sacred cave is very famous tourism attraction in Odisha. Devotees from Odisha, Chattishgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh come to Gupteswar during festivals of Lord Shiva.On Shiva Ratri the Gupteswar In Orissa is flocked by pilgrims all day and all night long. Men, women and children visit the temple on that auspicious day with offerings of flowers, fruits, milk, sweets and bhang. The Gupteswar Jeypore offers quite a feast for the non believers as well, since the cave shrine offers a panoramic view of the surroundings and makes a beautiful sight in itself. Gupteswar Jeypore is located 58 km from Jeypore town and regular buses, taxis and auto rickshaws are available from the town centre to the shrine. How to Reach: By Road The cave Shrine of Gupteswar nestles on a lush green hill, 58 K.m from Jeypore, and 80 Kms away from Koraput. DIRECTION

29.Khandagiri Bhubaneswar

The Khandagiri and Udayagiri Craves relive the memories of Kalinga Empire under the Jain emperor Kharvela. There are about 40 rock cut cave adoring the two hills separated by a road. It is believed that the founder of Jain faith, Mahavir had visited Udayagiri and khandagiri in the 6th Century B.C. Modern scholars are found in Rani and Hati Gumpha in the Udayagiti with description of the culture of dance in Orissa as far before as the 2nd century B.C. Modern scholars are of the opinion that the Udayagiri cave complex was also a theatre complex. Emperor Kharvela was a staunch and a great patron of culture. It is possible that he had created the caves for use of Jain ascetics as well as for cultural shows. DIRECTION

30.Dhauli Bhubaneswar

The Peace Pagoda built by the Kalinga Nippon Budha Sangha in 1973 and known as Shanti Stupa commemorates the change of heart of Emperor Ashok and the journey of budhism to the nation. There are two temples at Dhauli. One of Vairangeswar Mahadev and Dhabaleswar Mahadev. The proclamations of Emperor Achok are recorded in prakrit language in bhramin script on the rock of Dhauli on the Southeast end. How to Reach : The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhuwaneswar, which is 6 km away. Well connected by rail to all major tour destinations of the country. Bhubaneswar is on the National Highway linking Kolkata 480 km to Chennai 1225 km. There are only a few buses specifically plying to the caves but there are plenty going by the near by road junction. Otherwise you can also avail private cars and taxis from Bhuwaneswar station DIRECTION