ODISHA

Why Visit Odisha?

Odisha isn’t loud like Goa or crowded like Delhi — but it quietly holds some of the richest cultural, natural, and spiritual treasures of India. From sun-kissed beaches and ancient temples to tribal villages and dance festivals, Odisha is a destination for seekers — of history, peace, and soul-stirring experiences.

Top Destinations to Explore

 Puri

• Famous for the Jagannath Temple and the Rath Yatra

• Long golden beach, spiritual atmosphere

• Ideal for both pilgrims and peace-seekers

 Konark

• Home of the majestic Sun Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Great for photography, architecture lovers, and history buffs

 Chilika Lake

• Asia’s largest coastal lagoon

• Watch dolphins, flamingos, and migratory birds on a peaceful boat ride

 Simlipal National Park

• A tiger reserve full of waterfalls, orchids, and wildlife

• Great for eco-tourism and jungle treks

 Raghurajpur Heritage Village

• A living museum of traditional crafts, especially Pattachitra painting

• Every home is an art gallery — must-visit for culture lovers

 Koraput & Rayagada (Tribal Belt)

• Authentic tribal experiences, nature, valleys, and local markets

• Offbeat and deeply cultural

 Hidden Gems You Shouldn’t Miss

• Chandipur Beach – where the sea recedes by 5km every day

• Daringbadi – the ‘Kashmir of Odisha’ with cool weather and pine forests

• Taptapani – natural hot water springs surrounded by forests

• Satkosia Gorge – perfect for boating and river camping on the Mahanadi

 Best Time to Visit Odisha

• Winter (Oct – Feb): Best time for beaches, temples, sightseeing, and festivals

• Monsoon (Jul – Sep): Lush greenery and fewer crowds, perfect for eco-tourism

• Avoid: Peak summer (April – June) unless visiting hill stations like Daringbadi

 How to Reach Odisha

• By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar

• By Train: Well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai

• By Road: National highways connect Odisha with surrounding states

 Where to Stay

• Budget hotels and guesthouses in all major cities

• Eco resorts near Chilika and Daringbadi

• Heritage homestays in villages like Raghurajpur

• Luxury options available in Puri and Bhubaneswar

 What to Eat in Odisha

• Dalma – lentils and vegetables with a rich, comforting taste

• Chhena Poda – baked sweet made of cottage cheese

• Pakhala Bhaat – fermented rice with curd, a summer special

• Mahaprasad – temple-cooked food from the Jagannath Temple, served on banana leaves

 Cultural Highlights

• Watch Odissi dance at Konark Dance Festival (Dec)

• Experience tribal arts, silver filigree, palm leaf engraving

• Celebrate Rath Yatra (June/July) with over a million devotees in Puri

 Quick Travel Tips

 From AzaadiRoutes:

“Odisha isn’t just a trip. It’s a discovery.
A state where the rhythm of the ghungroo meets the whisper of the forest.
Where every stone has a story and every sunset, a song.”