Is Odisha worth visiting on a day trip? We have listed famous attractions of Odisha that you must visit while visiting this state in summer.
Spread over an area of 155,820 square kilometers, Odisha (formerly known as Orissa) is one of the most beautiful states of India.
From charming ancient temples to captivating nature escapes, sun-kissed beaches to wildlife sanctuaries, this state boasts of almost everything that is enough to entice a traveller.
Konark Sun Temple
Located around 65 KM from Bhubaneswar, a unique 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’s ancient architecture has been listed among the list of UNESCO 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 to visit this iconic temple is during sunrise and sunset when the beauty of this place is simply fantastic. The temple is also known for the Konark Festival organized during the first week of December.
Bhubaneswar City
Best known for its beautiful and magnificent temples numbering more than 700 (with most of them dedicated to Lord Shiva), the largest temple in the state-The Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar is the city capital of Odisha.
The existence of the city dates back to more than 2000 years, therefore, it has an exceptional collection of ancient architecture and ancient monuments. Apart from its historical significance, Bhubaneswar holds great importance in the commercial and business activities of the state.
Some of the famous destinations to see in and around Bhubaneswar include the historical sites of Dhauli, Khandagairi and Udayagiri, Rajarani Temple, and Vaital Deul Temple.
Puri (Jagannath Temple)
Worldwide known for the Temple of Jagannath, Puri is one of the four most pious centers for Hindus in India. The Jagannath temple is known to be the tallest temple of the state and has a unique ancient architecture.
It is a major attraction but it is very important to note that entry to this temple is only open to Hindus. However, the roof of Raghunandan Library opposite can be accessed to get charming views of this temple.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra festival (conducted during July / August every year) is a popular occasion that attracts large number of devotees and visitors both domestically and internationally.
Chilika Lake
Beautifully situated at the mouth of Daya River, Chilika Lake is a popular excursion point for tourists to Odisha. Covering an area of about 1100 square kilometers, it is the largest brackish water lagoon in India and the second largest in the world.
In addition, it has a wonderful mix of flora and fauna. In fact, Chilila Lake is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds in the Indian subcontinent. If you are a nature lover and like 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, Sanctuary of 64 Yoginis, Dhauli, Udaigiri are some of the other places you must visit of course, only if time permits. !
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