bigtravelbuzzOdisha, also known as Orissa, is a state in eastern India that is known for its rich cultural heritage, temples, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top places to visit in Odisha:
- Puri: Puri is a famous pilgrimage site that is home to the Jagannath Temple, one of the most important temples in India. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches and traditional handicrafts.
- Konark: Konark is home to the famous Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
- Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar is the capital city of Odisha and is known for its ancient temples, including the Lingaraj Temple and the Mukteswara Temple. The city is also home to several museums and art galleries.
- Chilika Lake: Chilika Lake is the largest coastal lagoon in India and is home to a variety of migratory birds and other wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the lake and its many islands.
- Raghurajpur: Raghurajpur is a traditional artisan village that is known for its Pattachitra paintings, an ancient form of Odishan painting.
- Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: These ancient rock-cut caves date back to the 2nd century BC and offer a glimpse into the ancient history and culture of Odisha.
- Simlipal National Park: Simlipal National Park is a protected wildlife reserve that is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including tigers, leopards, and elephants.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Odisha. The state is also known for its beautiful beaches, scenic waterfalls, and rich tribal culture.
Places to visit in Odisha
Odisha, also known as Orissa, is a state located in the eastern part of India. It is home to a rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, ancient temples, and lush green forests. Here are some of the top places to visit in Odisha:
- Puri: Puri is a popular seaside destination in Odisha. The main attraction here is the Jagannath Temple, one of the four major Hindu pilgrimage sites in India.
- Konark: Konark is famous for the Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is dedicated to the Sun God. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
- Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is known for its ancient temples, including the Lingaraj Temple and Mukteswara Temple. The city also has a vibrant art and culture scene.
- Chilika Lake: Chilika Lake is the largest saltwater lake in India and a popular destination for birdwatching. It is also a great place for boating and fishing.
- Dhauli: Dhauli is a hill located on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar that is known for its ancient rock edicts. It is also a popular destination for Buddhist pilgrims.
- Raghurajpur: Raghurajpur is a village in Odisha that is famous for its Pattachitra paintings, which are intricate hand-painted works of art on cloth.
- Simlipal National Park: Simlipal National Park is a beautiful forest reserve that is home to tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. It is a great destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Cuttack: Cuttack is a historic city that is known for its ancient temples, including the Katak Chandi Temple and the Barabati Fort. It is also a great place for shopping and trying local cuisine.
- Ratnagiri: Ratnagiri is an important Buddhist site in Odisha that is home to a number of ancient Buddhist monasteries and stupas.
- Gopalpur-on-Sea: Gopalpur-on-Sea is a popular beach destination in Odisha that is known for its serene and picturesque surroundings. It is a great place to relax and unwind.
Best Time To Visit Odisha
The best time to visit Odisha is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool. During this time, the temperature ranges from 7°C to 28°C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit Odisha, especially for nature lovers, as the forests and waterfalls are at their best during this time. However, it is advisable to be cautious as heavy rainfall may cause flooding and landslides in some parts of the state.
The summer months, from March to May, are hot and humid with temperatures soaring up to 40°C, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. However, the coastal areas, such as Puri and Gopalpur-on-Sea, are relatively cooler and can be visited during this time.
In summary, the best time to visit Odisha is during the winter months (November to February), followed by the monsoon season (June to September) for nature enthusiasts, and the summer months (March to May) are not recommended due to hot and humid weather.
Things to Do in Odisha
Odisha is a state in India that has a rich cultural heritage and offers a variety of activities to visitors. Here are some of the things you can do in Odisha:
- Explore Ancient Temples: Odisha is home to some of the most ancient and beautiful temples in India, including the Jagannath Temple, Lingaraj Temple, and Mukteswara Temple. These temples are known for their intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
- Enjoy Beaches: Odisha has a long coastline, with several beautiful beaches such as Puri Beach, Gopalpur-on-Sea, and Chandrabhaga Beach. These beaches offer water sports, sunbathing, and stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
- Visit Tribal Villages: Odisha is home to a variety of tribal communities that have their own unique customs and traditions. You can visit tribal villages and learn about their way of life and culture.
- Wildlife Safari: Odisha has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks such as Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika National Park, and Nandankanan Zoological Park. You can go on a wildlife safari to see tigers, elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of other animals.
- Attend Festivals: Odisha is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Rath Yatra, Durga Puja, and Konark Dance Festival. These festivals are a great way to experience the culture and traditions of Odisha.
- Try Local Cuisine: Odisha has a unique cuisine that includes dishes such as fish curry, dalma, chhena poda, and rasgulla. You can try these dishes at local restaurants or at street food stalls.
- Visit Art Villages: Odisha is known for its handicrafts, such as Pattachitra paintings, stone carvings, and terracotta art. You can visit art villages such as Raghurajpur to see the artisans at work and buy their creations.
In summary, there are many things to do in Odisha, from exploring ancient temples and beaches to wildlife safaris and attending festivals. The state offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that can make for a memorable trip.
How to Get Around in Odisha
Odisha is a state in India with a good network of roads, railways, and airways. Here are some of the ways to get around in Odisha:
- By Road: Odisha has a well-developed road network, and buses are the most common mode of transportation. There are government-run and private buses that connect major cities and towns in Odisha. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and motorcycles are also available for shorter distances.
- By Train: Odisha has a good network of railways, and trains connect major cities and towns within the state and to other parts of India. The major railway stations in Odisha are Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Sambalpur.
- By Air: Odisha has two major airports – Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar and Jharsuguda Airport in Jharsuguda. Both airports are well-connected to major cities in India and some international destinations.
- By Water: There are several waterways in Odisha, and boats are available for transportation in some areas. For example, boats are available for transportation in Chilika Lake, which is a popular tourist destination.
- By Bike or Car Rental: Bike and car rentals are available in major cities in Odisha, and this can be a good option if you want to explore the state at your own pace.
In summary, getting around in Odisha is relatively easy, with a good network of roads, railways, and airways. Buses are the most common mode of transportation, and taxis, auto-rickshaws, and motorcycles are also available. Trains and airplanes are good options for longer distances, and bike and car rentals are available in major cities.
Where to eat in Odisha
Odisha is known for its unique cuisine, which includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Here are some places where you can eat in Odisha:
- Dalma: This restaurant in Bhubaneswar serves authentic Odia cuisine, including the famous dalma, a vegetarian dish made with lentils and vegetables. The restaurant has a traditional decor and a pleasant atmosphere.
- Raghupati’s Kitchen: Located in Puri, this restaurant serves delicious seafood dishes, including prawn curry and crab masala. The restaurant has a beautiful view of the sea and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Chung Wah: This restaurant in Bhubaneswar serves Chinese and Indian cuisine and is known for its delicious momos and chili chicken. The restaurant has a casual ambiance and a reasonable price range.
- Mayfair Lagoon: This luxury hotel in Bhubaneswar has several restaurants, including a seafood restaurant and a rooftop bar. The hotel is known for its high-quality food and excellent service.
- The Zaika: This restaurant in Cuttack serves North Indian and Mughlai cuisine and is known for its biryani and kebabs. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and a reasonable price range.
- Dhaba Lane: Located in Puri, this restaurant serves traditional North Indian dhaba-style food, including butter chicken and tandoori roti. The restaurant has a relaxed ambiance and a reasonable price range.
- Bhojohori Manna: This restaurant in Bhubaneswar serves Bengali cuisine, including fish curry and luchi-aloo dum. The restaurant has a pleasant ambiance and a reasonable price range.
In summary, there are several restaurants in Odisha that serve delicious and unique cuisine, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. From traditional Odia cuisine to Chinese and North Indian cuisine, there is something for everyone.
Famous street stalls in Odisha
Odisha is known for its delicious street food, which is a blend of traditional Odia cuisine and other Indian cuisines. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Odisha:
- Bara Ghuguni: This is a popular street food in Cuttack, and it consists of fried lentil cakes (bara) served with a spicy chickpea curry (ghuguni).
- Dahibara Aloodum: This is a popular street food in Bhubaneswar, and it consists of fried lentil dumplings (dahibara) served with a spicy potato curry (aloodum) and a tangy yogurt sauce.
- Gupchup: This is a popular street food in Odisha, and it consists of small, crispy puffed balls filled with spicy potato and served with tangy tamarind chutney.
- Chhena Gaja: This is a popular sweet in Puri, and it consists of fried cottage cheese squares dipped in sugar syrup.
- Dahi Vada: This is a popular street food in Odisha, and it consists of lentil dumplings (vada) served with yogurt and a variety of spices.
- Chhena Poda: This is a popular sweet in Odisha, and it consists of a cake made with cottage cheese and sugar.
- Chicken Pakora: This is a popular street food in Bhubaneswar, and it consists of chicken fritters served with mint chutney.
- Samosa: This is a popular street food in Odisha, and it consists of crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
- Bread Omelette: This is a popular street food in Cuttack, and it consists of a sandwich made with bread, egg, and spices.
In summary, there are many famous street stalls in Odisha that serve delicious and unique street food, ranging from savory snacks to sweet treats. If you’re a foodie, be sure to try some of these local delicacies during your visit to Odisha.
Where to stay in Odisha
Luxury accommodation
Odisha offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels and resorts. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Odisha:
- Mayfair Lagoon: This 5-star hotel is located in Bhubaneswar and offers luxurious rooms, suites, and villas. The hotel features several restaurants, a bar, a spa, a fitness center, and a pool.
- Trident Hotel: This 5-star hotel is located in Bhubaneswar and offers elegant rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, a fitness center, and a pool.
- Toshali Sands: This resort is located in Puri and offers luxurious cottages, villas, and suites. The resort features several restaurants, a bar, a spa, a fitness center, and a pool.
- The Hans Coco Palms: This 4-star hotel is located in Puri and offers comfortable rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel features several restaurants, a bar, a spa, a fitness center, and a pool.
- Swosti Premium: This 5-star hotel is located in Bhubaneswar and offers spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel features several restaurants, a bar, a spa, a fitness center, and a pool.
- The Chariot Resort & Spa: This resort is located in Puri and offers luxurious villas with private pools. The resort features a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a fitness center, and a pool.
- Mayfair Waves: This beachfront hotel is located in Puri and offers stylish rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a fitness center, and a pool.
In summary, there are several luxury accommodation options in Odisha that offer high-end amenities, exceptional service, and a comfortable stay. From 5-star hotels to luxurious resorts, these properties are ideal for travelers looking for a lavish experience.
Budget accommodation
Odisha offers a range of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Odisha:
- Hotel Kalinga: This budget hotel is located in Bhubaneswar and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities. The hotel features a restaurant and provides free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Golden Palace: This budget hotel is located in Puri and offers clean and comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The hotel features a restaurant and provides free Wi-Fi.
- Zostel Puri: This hostel is located in Puri and offers affordable dormitory beds and private rooms. The hostel features a communal kitchen, a lounge, and provides free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Sambit Royale: This budget hotel is located in Bhubaneswar and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. The hotel features a restaurant and provides free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Arya Palace: This budget hotel is located in Cuttack and offers basic rooms with modern amenities. The hotel features a restaurant and provides free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Prachi: This budget hotel is located in Puri and offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities. The hotel features a restaurant and provides free Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Sapphire Plaza: This budget hotel is located in Bhubaneswar and offers basic rooms with modern amenities. The hotel features a restaurant and provides free Wi-Fi.
In summary, there are several budget accommodation options in Odisha that offer a comfortable stay at an affordable price. From budget hotels to hostels, these properties are ideal for travelers looking for an affordable stay without compromising on comfort and basic amenities.
Travel Tips Odisha
Here are some travel tips for Odisha that can help you make the most of your trip:
- Plan your trip in advance: Odisha has a lot to offer, so it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance. Research the places you want to visit, the best time to visit, and how to get there.
- Respect the local culture: Odisha has a rich culture and heritage, and it’s important to respect it. Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites, and be mindful of local customs and traditions.
- Stay hydrated: Odisha can get hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Try the local cuisine: Odisha has a unique cuisine that is worth trying. Don’t miss out on the local street food and traditional dishes such as dalma, chhena poda, and machha jhola.
- Use public transport: Odisha has a well-connected public transport system that includes buses and trains. It’s a cost-effective way to get around, and you can also meet locals and learn more about the culture.
- Stay safe: Like any other place, it’s important to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and keep your valuables safe.
- Learn some basic phrases: While many people in Odisha speak English, it’s always helpful to learn some basic phrases in the local language, Odia. This can help you communicate with locals and enhance your travel experience.
In summary, these travel tips can help you have a safe and enjoyable trip to Odisha, and make the most of your time in this beautiful state.