Is Odisha worth visiting on a day trip? We’ve listed famous attractions of Odisha which you must visit while visiting this state in the summer.
Spread over an area of 155,820 square kilometers, Odisha (erstwhile known as Orissa) is one of the most beautiful and ancient states of India.
Right from charming age-old temples to captivating natural escapes, sun-kissed beaches to wildlife sanctuaries, this state boasts of almost everything that is enough to entice a traveler.
Konark Sun Temple
Located around 65 KM from Bhubaneswar, one-of-its kind and unique architecture, the Konark Sun Temple is not only a popular tourist attraction in the state but around the world as well.
This exemplary piece of Orissa ancient architecture has been listed amongst the UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. This 13th century temple was built during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I (1238-1250 CE) of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
The most favorite time of visiting this iconic temple is during sunrise and sunset when the beauty of this place is just spellbinding. The temple is also known for the grand Konark Festival organised during the first week of December.
Bhubaneswar City
Best known for its beautiful and magnificent temples that counts over 700 (with most of them dedicated to Lord Shiva), most significantly the biggest temple in the state-The Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar is the capital city of Odisha.
The existence of the city dates back to over 2000 years, therefore, it has an exceptional collection of ancient architecture and ancient monuments. Apart from its historical significance, Bhubaneswar holds a huge importance in the state’s commercial and business activities of the state.
Some of the famous destinations to see in and around Bhubaneswar includes the historical sites of Dhauli, Khandagairi and Udayagiri, Rajarani Temple, and Vaital Deul Temple.
Puri (Jagannath Temple)
Worldwide known for the Jagannath Temple, Puri is one of the four most pious centres for Hindus in India. The Jagannath temple is known to be the tallest temple of the state and has unique ancient architecture.
It is a major attraction but it is very important to note that entry to this temple is only open for Hindus. However, the roof of the Raghunandan Library opposite can be accessed to get charming views of this temple.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra festival (conducted during July / August annually) is a popular occasion which attracts huge of domestic as well as international devotees and visitors.
Chilika Lake
Beautifully located at the mouth of the Daya River, Chilika Lake is a popular excursionpoint for tourists to Odisha. Covering an area of around 1100 square kilometers, it is the largest brackish water lagoon in India and second largest in the world.
Apart from that, it bears a wonderful combination of flora and fauna. As a matter of fact, Chilila Lake is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds in the Indian sub-continent. If you are a nature lover and love to do bird watching, then don’t miss a trip to Chilika Lake.
Apart from the above attractions, Bhitarkanika National Park, Barehipani waterfalls, Chandipur and Chandrabhaga Beach, Nandan Kanan National Park, 64 Yogini Shrine, Dhauli, Udaigiri are some of the other places which you must pay a visit of course, only if the time permits!
