Want to escape some of India’s most popular (and crowded) sites? Eager to discover a new, unexplored part of the country? If you’re looking to part from the tourist trail and see a side of the subcontinent mainly known to locals, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Odisha.
This magical Eastern Indian state bridges the coastline between Andhra Pradesh to the south and West Bengal to the north. While Andhra Pradesh is home to bustling cities like Hyderabad and West Bengal, which hosts frenetic Kolkata and scenic Darjeeling, Odisha offers a perfect blend of authentic rural charm alongside its increasingly cosmopolitan urban centers. Traditionally overlooked by international travelers, Odisha has emerged as one of India’s most rewarding destinations over the past decade.
Odisha has a fascinating history that dates back over 5,000 years. The state has been home to a vast range of dynasties, conquering invaders, religions, and tribes. Today, evidence of its multifarious past is seen in its many temples. The stunning Sun Temple of Konark is the best-known and most visited. Built in the 13th century, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is devoted to Surya, the Sun God. The complex is designed to imitate a chariot, and its ornately carved stone walls are breathtaking to behold. Recent digital preservation efforts have created an impressive virtual tour experience, though nothing compares to seeing the monument in person.
Puri is another must-visit destination in Odisha for those interested in ancient architecture and culture, and it is not far from Konark. One of the seven most holy Hindu sites in all of India, Puri attracts pilgrims from far and wide for its temples (of which the colossal Jagannath Temple is perhaps the best known) as well as for its religious festivals – The Festival of Chariots, or Rathayatra, sees an incredible chariot procession take to the streets during the summer. But Puri isn’t just for the devout: the city’s revitalized beachfront, with its newly implemented sustainability measures and eco-friendly beach cleaning initiatives, has made it one of Eastern India’s premier coastal destinations.
Bhubaneswar, also the state’s capital, is Odisha’s biggest and most vibrant city. In addition to the city’s many temples, visitors flock from far and wide to visit the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, which bear ancient carvings and inscriptions. The recently expanded State Museum now examines the region’s history through interactive exhibits. It features an impressive collection of palm leaf manuscripts and Bronze Age tools. At the same time, the Nandankanan Zoo continues its internationally recognized conservation work with rare species, including its famous white tiger population.
In addition to cultural vultures, Odisha is also a magnet for nature lovers and adventurers. With its sprawling jungles and rich wildlife, you’ll want to spend a fair amount of time outdoors. Simlipal National Park, located in the north of the state, has seen remarkable success in its tiger conservation efforts, with population numbers rising steadily since 2020. Another popular natural sight is Chilika Lake, India’s largest coastal lagoon. It hosts hundreds of bird species and a thriving dolphin population, which is now protected by strict eco-tourism guidelines. One of Odisha’s most spectacular natural phenomena is the mass nesting of Olive Ridley sea turtles. Each year between January and April, hundreds of thousands of these endangered turtles arrive at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary and Rushikulya Beach for their famous “arribada” (mass nesting). Thanks to enhanced conservation efforts implemented between 2020 and 2025, turtle populations have shown encouraging growth.
Whether your interest is in urban exploration, temple discoveries, museum tours, or nature walks, immerse yourself in Odisha for an authentic and vibrant Indian experience. With improved infrastructure and a growing focus on sustainable tourism, there’s never been a better time to discover this gem of Eastern India.
Practical Travel Guide
How to Reach:
- By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar connects directly with major Indian cities and select international destinations. New regional airports in Jharsuguda and Rourkela provide additional connectivity to remote areas.
- By Train: Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Cuttack are well-connected to India’s extensive rail network, and high-speed rail options have been added since 2023.
- By Road: The state’s upgraded highway infrastructure includes the completed Coastal Highway Project, making road trips along the scenic coastline highly recommended.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March: Ideal weather with comfortable temperatures (18-30°C)
- January to April: Best for turtle watching at Rushikulya and Gahirmatha
- June-July: Experience the Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) in Puri
- August-September: Lush landscapes following monsoon (though some areas may have
limited accessibility)
