Top 15 Things To Do in Orissa That You Shouldn’t Miss

Orissa boasts of several delights for the visitors, making the list of things to do in Orissa, quite extensive. This coastal state of India along the shores of the Bay of Bengal is a rather unexplored gem. It is blessed and not just by the Chardham destination of Puri. The exotic wildlife, lush environment, ancient temples, pristine beaches, placid lakes, tribal culture and more contribute to its appeal. Unspoiled by modern curses, the state has something for tourists of different kinds of interests. To help you make your travel plans, look at these things to do in Odisha.

Here are the Top 15 Things to do in Orissa that you should visit

• Konark Sun Temple
• Jagannath Temple
• Udaygiri and Khandagiri caves
• Lingaraj Mandir
• Chilika Lake
• Temples of Bhubaneshwar
• Chandipur Beach
• Raghurajpur
• Puri Beach
• Oriya craft at Pipli
• Nandankanan Zoological Park
• Gopalpur Beach
• Tribal Villages of Orissa
• Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary
• Leaf Manuscripts at State Museum

1. Marvel at the Grandeur of Konark Sun Temple

One of the world heritage sites in Orissa, the Sun temple in Konark is a 13th-century temple dedicated to Sun God. The temple has magnificent architecture and beautiful intricate carvings. Built-in the Kalinga style of architecture, the temple is a marvel of architecture. Each side of this temple makes it one of the best things to see in Orissa. Of note are the sculptures promoting erotica through its Maithunas sculptures.

Known by the names of Konaditya and the Black Pagoda, the Konark Sun temple was built in 1278 CE by an Eastern Ganga King, Narsimha Deva I. The temple complex has a number of structures along. Start you with the main shrines such as Nata Mandir (dance hall) and Bhog Mandapa (dining hall), and Jagmohana (the audience hall). Mesmerizing is the word to describe beauty, furthermore, the temple has a huge place in the history of the state and India.

Fee: Indian/Foreigner- INR 10/250, Video- INR 25, Guide per hour INR 150
Timings: Dawn – 08:00 PM

2. Seek the Lord’s blessing at the Jagannath Temple

One of the most revered Chardham destinations in India, Puri is the abode of the grand Jagannath temple. Not only Puri sightseeing but the Odisha tour is incomplete without visiting this temple. It is flocked by devotees in vast numbers throughout the year. The best time to visit Odisha to seek blessings from Lord Jagannath is from October to February. Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, a ruler of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, built the Jagannath Temple in the 12th century. The temple combines Hindu, Kalinga, and Dravidian architectural styles.

Inside the temple, there are idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. The popular Puri Rath Yatra procession starts from the temple. The deities are brought out from the temple and are carried in a grand wooden chariot with enthusiastic pomp and show. The temple also becomes the venue of several other festivals all throughout the year. The very air of the temple is spiritually cleansing nonetheless how crowded it is.

Puja Timings of Jagannath Temple

• Dwarpitha and Mangal Aarati at 5 AM
• Mailam at 6 AM
• Abakash – 6 AM to 6.30 AM
• Mailam- 6.45 AM
• Sahanamela – 7 AM to 8 AM
• Beshalagi – 8 AM
• Rosha Homa Surya Puja and Dwarapal- 8 AM to 8.30 AM
• Gopala Ballava Puja- 9 AM
• Mailam and Bhoga Mandap
• Sakala Dhupa (Morning food offering) 10 AM
• Madhyanha (Afternoon food offering) 11 AM to 1 PM
• Madhyanha Pahudha – 1 PM to 1.30 PM
• Sandhya Aarati
• Sandhya Dhupa – 7 PM to 8 PM
• Mailam and Chandana lagi
• Badashringar Vesha
• Badashringara Bhoga
• Khata Seja Lagi and Pahuda 12.00 hours

Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra
5 Nights / 6 daysOrissa Cultural Tour
7 Nights / 8 daysOrissa Golden Triangle Tour
4 Nights / 5 daysOrissa Tribal Tour
10 Nights / 11 days

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Check out the Odisha Golden Triangle package for your next vacation.

3. Admire the Rock-Hewed Temples at Udaygiri and Khandagiri Caves

One of the best things to see in Orissa, Udaygiri and Khandagiri caves are well-known places in the Buddhist pilgrimage in India. The caves are a combination of natural as well as man-made. Located 6 km west of the Bhubaneswar city, these caves are known for their wonderful sculptures and Brahmi inscriptions. Udaygiri has 15 caves, and the neighboring Khandagiri has 18 caves. These caves were carved way back in the 1st century.

The caves at Udayagiri (Hill of Sunrise) and Khandagiri (Broken Hills) are known to be one of the oldest groups of Jain rock-cut shelters. It is believed that these caves were the cells or dwellings of Jain ascetics, which they used for meditation and other purposes. Monkeys are abundant in the area entertaining the crowds with their tactics.

Fee: Indian/Foreigner- INR 5/100, Video- INR 25 (both the sites)

Timings: Dawn – Dusk

4. Pay Homage to Self-Originated Lingam at Lingaraj Mandir

One of the oldest and largest temples in Bhubaneshwar, Lingaraj Mandir dates back to the 11th century. The red sandstone temple is dedicated to Tribhuvaneswar (Lord Shiva), which is 54 m-high. The temple has mentioned in the ancient Hindu scripture Brahma Purana.

The Lingaraj temple was constructed by King Jajati Keshari of Soma Vansha. The reverence of the temple is owed to the fact that the Shiv Lingam is Swayambhu or Self-Originated. The granite lingam is bathed every day with milk, bhang and water. The main shrine is surrounded by a number of smaller temples.

This temple has a Kalinga style of architecture and has a huge gopuram with stunning craftsmanship. The art that reflects through its architecture makes it one of Odisha’s famous things. The main gate is guarded by 2 yellow-colored lion statues. Lingaraj Mandir is segregated into the main sanctum, the Yajna Shala, the Bhoga Mandap and the Natya Shala.

Timings: Dusk – Dawn

Fee: Entry is Free

5. Enjoy Bird Watching at Chilika Lake

For a day picnic with your loved ones, Chilika Lake is your best bet. It is one the best places for bird watching in Orissa. Spread on an area of 1100 sq km, this brackish water lagoon is probably Asia’s largest coastal lagoon. The surroundings of the lake welcome several colorful birds. To name a few, you can spot, white-bellied sea eagles, flamingoes, gulls, golden plovers, sandpipers and a number of migratory birds. That is not all! The rich ecosystem of the lake is a huge fishery resource.

Do not forget to click memorable photographs of the lake’s picturesque backdrop. There is no doubt that bird watching is one of the best things to see in Odisha. You can also enjoy a leisure stroll on its banks, while you enjoy the natural bliss. Chilika is one of the world’s most important wetlands. In contrast to the cities, this is an oasis of bliss.

Best time to visit: November-February

Places of interest: Bird Island, Satapada, Nalabana, Mangalajodi, Breakfast Island etc.

6. Adore the Wonderful Ancient Temples of Bhubaneshwar

Home to some of the most famous temples in Odisha, Bhubaneshwar is dubbed as the ‘City of Temples’, with a history that is 2000 years old. The capital city of Orissa, Bhubaneshwar in addition to the modern city pleasures has more than 700 religious, spiritual and historical sites. Named after Lord Shiva, the city temples are dedicated to the various forms of the three-eyed lord. Lingaraj, Mukteswar and Brahmeshwar being the major trio.

Tourist Attractions in Bhubaneshwar

• Udaygiri and Khandagiri Caves
• Lingaraj temple
• Raja Rani Temple
• Nandankanan Zoological Park
• Dhauli Giri hill
• Bindu Sarovar

Best time to visit Bhubaneshwar: October to March

[Discover Orissa Tribal Tour with this package]

7. Walk Into the Sea Bed at Chandipur Beach

Chandipur beach is one of the most popular tourist places in Orissa.  Set on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, the beach is not just beautiful but interesting. During the ebb tide, the sea recedes as far as 5 km away from the beach. Enjoy the memorable sunset views. You can also enjoy a family picnic or a romantic getaway. Odisha things to do and Chandipur Beach charm are connected to befit in any tour.

As you walk towards Mirzapur, you can also see horseshoe crab. There is a fishing market nearby, worth visiting. Chandipur is around 200 km from Bhubaneshwar. Enjoy a walk a little further into the seabed as the waves are gentle here. There is a certain pleasure in writing your names in the sand. Walk along the waves or collect shells to take home. It is one of the cherished memories of your holiday in Orissa.

Best time to visit Chandipur beach: November to March
Location: 16 km from the Baleswar Railway Station.

8. Explore the Rural Handicrafts Villages at Raghurajpur

Placed on the southern bank of the Bhargavi River, Raghurajpur is a beautiful crafts village. The entire hamlet is enveloped by groves of tropical trees. Every family in this village keeps alive the traditional crafts making. The village preserves the traditions running in their family for generations. It is a wonderful sneak-peek into the rural life of Orissa. The artistic environment of the village is its highlight. The crafts of this village adorn Mathas and temples. It is a wonderful sneak-peek into the rural life of Orissa. The artistic environment of the village makes this village one of the best Odisha tourist attractions.

The handicraft villages at Raghurajpur display the fine art culture of Orissa called Pattachitra. An assortment of craft items is on display outside the households. See the finesse of sodhai work, palm lead inscriptions, papier mache, filigree, wood and stone carvings, terracotta, applique, traditional masks, cow dung and wooden toys etc. In addition, explore the wonderful display mural paintings mainly depicting events of Ramayana and Mahabharata in the village environs.

Location: 14 km from Puri
Famous for: Pattachitra Painting

9. Enjoy Stunning Sunrise and Sunset at Puri Beach

You said Odisha famous things, we hear the breathtaking sunrise and sunset at Puri Beach. One of the most popular beaches in India, fine white sands and challenging sea waves are synonyms of Puri beach. The beach offers memorable sunrise as well as sunset views. Family vacationers and devotees of Lord Jagannath visit this beach every year in huge numbers. The beach is 65 km from Bhubaneshwar and 35 km from Konark. Every year, The Puri Beach festival is organized here in November month, welcoming beach lovers from the world over.

Do not miss viewing the art of sand sculptures by world-renowned artist Sudarshan Patnaik at the Puri beach. Go for a leisure walk and enjoy the serene environments. A visit to the nearby fishing village provides the ideal opportunity to interact with the locals. If you simply wish to relax, head towards the beach’s eastern end.

Famous for: Sunset and Sunrise views, and Religious significance

10. Get your hands on wonderful Oriya craft at Pipli

Pipli is a village near Puri, extremely popular for its amazing colorful applique work. Shopping at Pipli is one of the top things to do in Orissa. This art is done by means of stitching and embroidering colored pieces of clothes on another huge base cloth. These exquisite art crates village scenes, flowers, animals, and even religious themes.

The village craftsmen sell some of the most creative items of Oriya craft. Here, you can get your hands on beautiful decorative items such as bags, garden umbrellas, lampshades, wall hangings, pouches, and wallets. The craftsmen of Pipli also make canopies for the annual Jagannath Yatra. A huge number of tourists visit this place to buy these stunning crafts. Take these beautiful displays to decorate your homes with the wonderful remembrance of Orissa.

Location: 38 km from Puri

Famous for: Applique work

11. Rendezvous with the region’s wildlife at Nandankanan Zoological Park

The honor of India’s first zoo that became a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums goes to the Nandankanan Zoological Park. Spread over 400 hectares, this is one of the best places for kids in Orissa. The zoo is located in Bhubaneshwar. Lying amid the lush Chandaka forest, it also has a placid lake, Kanjia. The zoological park is the home of 67 kinds of mammals, 18 reptile varieties and 81 avifauna species, including the rare White Tigers (34).

Nandankanan is the first captive gharial breeding center of India. It is also known for “Adopt an Animal Project’. This is an initiative for animal lovers is also run here. Visitors can sponsor food and other essential items for the animal of their liking, inside the park. Along with animal safaris, boating is also offered here. Other wildlife species that are spotted here include blackbuck, Indian crocodiles, Indian pangolin, lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri Langur, Himalayan black bear and more. This sanctuary provides the true picture of the wildlife inhabiting India.

Timings: Closed on Monday

• 07.30 hours-17.30 hours (April to September)
• 08.00 hours- 17.00 hours (October to March)

Entry Fee:

• Indians – INR 25 / Foreigners- INR 100 /  Children (3-12 years) – INR 10
• Physically handicapped and Children below 3 years- Free

Photography

• Still Camera / Handycam –   INR 10 / 100

12. Gopalpur Beach

Less commercialized beach in comparison to Puri, Gopalpur beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Orissa. Ideal for couples and peace-seekers, this beach boasts of calm surroundings. It is perfect to simply relax, and admire the surrounding natural beauty. A popular attraction is the annual Gopalpur beach festival organized here by the Orissa government.

Gopalpur beach has wonderful opportunities for water sports activities. Be it rowing, windsurfing, paddleboat, swimming, scuba diving or water scooters, you can have fun. Spend a day of beach fun. Meanwhile, do not forget to buy some excellent quality cashew nuts from here.

Location: 17 km from Behrampur
Places of attraction: Berhampur, Taptapani, Chilika Lake, Mahuri Kalua,and Patisonapur

13. Explore the Tribal Villages of Orissa

Orissa state is home to as many as 62 tribal communities, which means it has the largest tribal population in the country. Visit Orissa to get a sneak-peak into the lifestyle, culture, food habits and traditions of these tribes. The tribal communities worship nature. They follow their own rules. The main source of livelihood is food gathering, hunting and fishing.

Dance and music are an important part of Tribal communities. They have their own festivals, culture and food. Orissa tribes have high artistic skills such as ornament making, wall paintings, weaving and body painting. Explore the tribal culture of Odisha. The nature-worshiping tribals are generally friendly. They open their homes and hearts for their guests.

Tribal Villages of Orissa: Rayagada, Chatikona, Jeypore, Baliguda, Onukudelli, and Belghar.
Popular tribes of Orissa: Bondo, Didayi, Barogadaba, Kondhs, Saura, Gadaba, Dhuruba, Juanga, Bhuiyan, and Dharua.

14. A paradise for nature-lovers: Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary is the second largest mangrove ecosystem in India. it is the erstwhile hunting grounds of the former ruler of Kanika, A scenic paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, this sanctuary is one of the most popular attractions in Orissa. The tranquil ambiance is a haven of colorful migratory birds, verdant mangroves, meandering rivers, beasty crocodiles, and cute turtles.

Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary has around 55 mangrove species. The mangroves here have a huge population of saltwater crocodiles. There are as many as 215 bird species, including kingfisher, white-bellied seagull, hornbill, brahminy duck, etc. Other animals at the sanctuary are sambar, python, hyena, jungle cat, leopard cat, partially white crocodile, while boar and so on. A treat for nature-lovers almost every tourist is left in awe of the sanctuary.

• Best time to visit: November to May
• Timings: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm
• Entry fee: Indian/foreigner ₹20/50
• Boating- INR 100/- per boat per day
• Camera fee (Indians) – Still/Video – INR.25/ INR 500
• Foreigners- Still/Video – INR 50/ INR 1000

Bhubaneswar Puri Tour
2 Nights / 3 daysBest of Orissa
6 Nights / 7 daysTribal Tour of Orissa
13 Nights / 14 daysOrissa and Kolkata Tour from Hyderabad
14 Nights / 15 days

[ Have a Look at our customized Orissa Holiday Packages ]

15. Impressive Palm-leaf manuscripts at State Museum

Extremely popular for owning the best and huge collection of manuscripts on palm leaves, The Orissa State Museum came into being way back in the year 1948. Besides the palm-leaf manuscripts, there are many other treasures housed in the museum. Marvel at the folk and traditional musical instruments. The Pattachitra paintings are an inspiring collection. For a lesson in history, check out the stone inscriptions, the armory section, tools from Bronze Age, coins, as well as Jain, Brahmanical, and Buddhist sculptures.

The eight-century sculpture of Devi Chamunda is quite impressive. State Museum of Orissa in Bhubaneshwar has 2 life-size dancing welcome statues in Odissi dance posture, placed at the entry gate. The museum offers an amalgam of varied displays including natural history objects, tools, sculptures of different varieties, art and crafts items, and archaeological objects. The specimens make you wonder about the past days and the lifestyle of the population.

Entry Fee: Indian/foreigner ₹5/50, Camera ₹10/100
Timings: 10:00 am – 04.30 pm (Tuesday – Sunday)

Related Post:

7 Places to Visit in Bhubaneswar to Witness the Heydays of Hindu Supremacy
Top Tourist Places in Odisha to Experience India Different Firsthand

Geetika Handa

Geetika Handa is a travel writer who has an interest in sharing her experiences with all. She provides a detailed account of any travel topic she chooses to write on. You can get detailed information and tips about choosing the right kind of holiday packages in the country from her write-ups.