5 Must Visit Tourist Spots In Odisha

Odisha, formerly known as Orissa, is a state located on the eastern coast of India. It is one of the 28 states of India and is bordered by West Bengal to the northeast, Jharkhand to the north, Chhattisgarh to the west, and Andhra Pradesh to the south. The Bay of Bengal lies on its eastern coast, providing Odisha with a long coastline of about 480 kilometers.

Odisha has a rich cultural heritage and a history that dates back thousands of years. It was home to ancient civilizations and was mentioned in ancient texts like the Mahabharata. The state has witnessed the rise and fall of various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Marathas, leaving behind numerous historical sites and monuments.

The people of Odisha, known as Odias, have their own distinct language, Odia, which is one of the classical languages of India. The state has a diverse population, comprising various ethnic groups and tribes, each with its own unique traditions and customs. The major religions practiced in Odisha are Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.

Odisha is renowned for its vibrant art and culture. It is famous for its intricate handloom textiles, exquisite silver filigree work, and traditional dance forms like Odissi, which is one of the eight classical dances of India. The state is also known for its religious festivals, with the Rath Yatra in Puri being one of the most important and widely celebrated events.

The natural beauty of Odisha is breathtaking, with a diverse landscape that includes lush forests, rolling hills, rivers, and pristine beaches. The state is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Simlipal National Park and Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, which provide habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna.

Odisha's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice being the staple crop. The state is also rich in mineral resources, including coal, iron ore, and bauxite, which contribute significantly to its industrial sector. In recent years, Odisha has been making strides in sectors like information technology, education, and tourism, attracting investments and generating employment opportunities.

# Puri

Puri is a historic city located on the eastern coast of Odisha, India. It is situated about 60 kilometers south of the state capital, Bhubaneswar, and is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Puri is renowned for its famous Jagannath Temple, which attracts millions of devotees and tourists every year.

The Jagannath Temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath (a form of Lord Vishnu), is the centerpiece of Puri's religious and cultural significance. The temple is known for its annual Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, where the deities of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra are taken out in grand processions on elaborately decorated chariots. The Rath Yatra is a major event that draws massive crowds and is celebrated with great enthusiasm.

Apart from the Jagannath Temple, Puri is also known for its beautiful beaches. The golden sandy beaches of Puri stretch for several kilometers along the Bay of Bengal and offer a tranquil retreat for visitors. The sea at Puri is considered holy, and taking a dip in its waters is believed to cleanse one's sins.

Puri has a rich cultural heritage, and its history can be traced back to ancient times. The city was an important center of trade and commerce during the Kalinga Empire and later came under the influence of various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Gajapatis. The architectural marvels of Puri reflect its glorious past, with notable structures like the Sun Temple at Konark, the Chilika Lake, and the numerous mathas (monastic establishments) that dot the city.

The city of Puri offers a vibrant atmosphere with its bustling markets, colorful festivals, and traditional art forms. The city is known for its handicrafts, particularly the exquisite appliqué work, which involves intricate stitching and embroidery on fabrics. Puri is also famous for its traditional dance forms, including Odissi, Gotipua, and Chhau, which are performed during festivals and cultural events.

Puri is well-connected by road and rail, and the nearest airport is located in Bhubaneswar. The city has a range of accommodation options, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts, to cater to the needs of visitors.

# Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is the capital city of the state of Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India. It is known for its rich history, architectural marvels, and vibrant cultural heritage. Bhubaneswar is often referred to as the "Temple City of India" due to its numerous ancient temples that showcase exquisite craftsmanship and architectural splendor.

The city has a history that dates back over 3,000 years, and it was an important center of the Kalinga Empire in ancient times. Bhubaneswar is home to some of the most significant temples in India, including the Lingaraja Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a remarkable example of Kalinga style architecture. Other prominent temples in the city include the Mukteshwar Temple, Rajarani Temple, and Ananta Vasudeva Temple, each displaying unique architectural features and religious importance.

Bhubaneswar is renowned for its architectural heritage, with a blend of ancient and modern structures. The city showcases a harmonious coexistence of traditional Odia architecture and modern infrastructure. The Lingaraja Temple and the Mukteshwar Temple are particularly known for their intricate carvings and sculptures that depict mythological stories and deities.

Apart from its temples, Bhubaneswar is also home to several museums and art galleries that preserve and showcase the cultural heritage of Odisha. The Odisha State Museum houses a vast collection of archaeological artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and manuscripts, providing insights into the history and art of the region. The Tribal Museum highlights the diverse tribal cultures and traditions of Odisha.

Bhubaneswar is a center of education, with several esteemed educational institutions, including the renowned Utkal University and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), contributing to the city's intellectual and academic growth. The city is also emerging as a hub for information technology (IT) and business process outsourcing (BPO) industries, attracting investment and generating employment opportunities.

The people of Bhubaneswar, known as Bhubaneswarites, are warm and hospitable. The city celebrates various festivals with great fervor, including Durga Puja, Diwali, and the Rath Yatra. Odissi, the classical dance form of Odisha, holds a special place in Bhubaneswar's cultural fabric, and the city hosts the famous Odissi dance festival every year.

Bhubaneswar offers a well-planned urban infrastructure, with wide roads, parks, and green spaces. The city's Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves, situated on twin hills, are popular tourist attractions that showcase ancient Jain rock-cut architecture and offer panoramic views of the city.

# Cuttack

Cuttack is a historic city located in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River, about 28 kilometers north of the state capital, Bhubaneswar. Cuttack is one of the oldest cities in Odisha and has a rich cultural and historical significance.

Cuttack has a history that dates back over a thousand years. It served as the capital of the Kalinga Empire and later became an important center of trade and commerce during the British colonial period. The city played a crucial role in the maritime trade along the Bay of Bengal and was known as the "Millennium City" due to its ancient lineage.

The city of Cuttack is famous for its Barabati Fort, which was built in the 14th century and stands as a testament to the city's ancient past. The fort, situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River, offers a panoramic view of the city and hosts various cultural and sporting events, including cricket matches.

Cuttack is known for its beautiful temples, showcasing intricate architecture and religious significance. The Katak Chandi Temple is one of the most revered shrines in the city, dedicated to the goddess Chandi. The Dhabaleswar Temple, located on an island in the Mahanadi River, attracts devotees and tourists alike. The Qadam-I-Rasool Mosque, believed to house the footprint of Prophet Muhammad, is another important religious site in Cuttack.

The city is renowned for its silver filigree work, known as "Tarakasi," which involves intricate designs crafted by skilled artisans. Cuttack is also famous for its exquisite handloom textiles, including the famous Cuttacki sarees, which are known for their unique patterns and craftsmanship.

Cuttack is celebrated for its festivals, with Durga Puja being the most prominent and widely celebrated. The city comes alive with elaborate decorations, colorful processions, and traditional cultural performances during this time. The Bali Jatra festival, held annually near the Mahanadi River, commemorates the ancient maritime trade links of Cuttack and attracts a large number of visitors.

The city has a thriving educational sector, with several prestigious institutions, including Ravenshaw University, contributing to the intellectual growth of the region. Cuttack also hosts various art and cultural events, promoting the traditional dance forms of Odisha, such as Odissi and Gotipua.

Cuttack is well-connected to other parts of Odisha and India through a well-developed transportation network. The city has a railway station and is easily accessible by road. Bhubaneswar's Biju Patnaik International Airport serves as the nearest airport for air travel.

# Baripada

Baripada is a town located in the Mayurbhanj district of the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is situated in the northern part of Odisha, near the border with Jharkhand. Baripada is the administrative headquarters of the Mayurbhanj district and serves as an important commercial and cultural center in the region.

Baripada is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional festivals. The town is famous for the celebration of the Chhau dance, a traditional Indian dance form that originated in the region. The Mayurbhanj Chhau Dance Festival, held annually in Baripada, attracts renowned Chhau dance troupes from across India, providing a platform to showcase their artistic skills and cultural heritage.

One of the major attractions in Baripada is the Simlipal National Park, which is located in close proximity to the town. Simlipal is a sprawling wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve, known for its diverse flora and fauna. The park offers opportunities for wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Baripada is also famous for its Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, which is similar to the one celebrated in Puri. The festival involves the procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra on elaborately decorated chariots through the streets of Baripada. The Rath Yatra in Baripada is known for its grandeur and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.

The town of Baripada is surrounded by scenic landscapes, with lush green forests, hills, and rivers. The Haripur beach, situated nearby, offers a tranquil retreat and is a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists. The nearby Khiching Temple, dedicated to Lord Khichakeshwari, is another important religious site and architectural marvel worth visiting.

Baripada has a mix of traditional and modern infrastructure. It has a well-developed transportation system, including a railway station and good road connectivity. The town has educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and a range of amenities to cater to the needs of its residents and visitors.

The people of Baripada are predominantly engaged in agriculture, with paddy cultivation being the main occupation. The town also has a significant tribal population, adding to its cultural diversity. The tribal communities of Mayurbhanj have their own distinct traditions, art forms, and festivals, which contribute to the vibrant cultural fabric of Baripada.

# Chandipur

Chandipur, also known as Chandipur-on-Sea, is a coastal town located in the Balasore district of the eastern Indian state of Odisha. Situated on the Bay of Bengal, Chandipur is known for its unique and fascinating phenomenon of a disappearing sea.

One of the main attractions of Chandipur is its beach, which stretches for about 4 kilometers and offers a distinct experience to visitors. During low tide, the seawater recedes up to 5 kilometers from the shoreline, exposing a vast expanse of sandy beach and creating a surreal sight. This phenomenon allows visitors to walk on the seabed and explore the marine life, shells, and other treasures left behind by the receding waters. As the tide returns, the sea gradually comes back to its original position, completing the cycle.

Chandipur beach is not only a visual treat but also a hub for scientific research. The Integrated Test Range (ITR) of the Indian Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is located in Chandipur. The ITR conducts missile tests and launches from the nearby Wheeler Island, adding to the uniqueness of the region.

Apart from the mesmerizing beach, Chandipur offers opportunities for various water sports and activities such as swimming, beach volleyball, and kite flying. The tranquil and serene environment of the town makes it an ideal getaway for those seeking peace and relaxation amidst natural beauty.

Chandipur is also a gateway to explore the nearby attractions. The nearby Bhitarkanika National Park, located in the Kendrapara district, is known for its mangrove forests, diverse flora and fauna, and the presence of saltwater crocodiles. The Panchalingeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is another popular religious site situated atop a hill, providing scenic views of the surrounding area.

The town of Chandipur offers basic amenities such as accommodation, restaurants, and small shops to cater to the needs of tourists. It is well-connected by road and rail, with the nearest major city being Balasore, which is around 16 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, located about 240 kilometers from Chandipur.