Top 10 Tourist Places in Odisha Trip List
Published on Jan 20, 2026Located on the eastern coast of India, Odisha is a state that stunningly merges history, culture, nature, and spirituality. From peaceful beaches to age-old temples, this state offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers. If you have a trip on your mind and are wondering about the top 10 tourist places in Odisha, this blog will help you explore the must-visit destinations. Look forward to a memorable journey!
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Best Tourist Places in Odisha
Here are the top ten tourist places in Odisha that you cannot afford to miss:
1. Puri – The Spiritual and Beach Destination
Puri is, without a doubt, one of the top tourist places in Odisha. Renowned for the spectacular Jagannath Puri Temple, it catches devotees’ attention from all over India. A part of the Char Dham pilgrimage, this temple is a must-visit for individuals seeking spirituality. However, you must ensure to check Puri temple timings before you plan to visit the temple for darshan efficiently.
Other than divinity, Puri takes pride in being home to flawless beaches, such as Puri Beach. Here, you can make the most of a peaceful sunset or enjoy the water activities. Some things to do in Puri include attending the Rath Yatra festival, trying genuine Odia cuisines, and exploring local markets.
Why Visit Puri: Beach relaxation, cultural exploration, and divine experience.
2. Konark – The Sun Temple Marvel
The Sun Temple in Konark is a beautiful piece of architecture. Built in the 13th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site resembles a massive chariot with delicately carved wheels and horses. If history is what fascinates you deep inside, you must visit Konark, one of the best places to visit in Odisha, for its remarkable architecture.
Aside from the temple, Konark hosts the annual Konark Dance Festival. It showcases classical dances in India with the Sun Temple in the background. You cannot afford to miss such an impeccable cultural and visual treat.
Why Visit Konark: UNESCO World Heritage Site, cultural festivals, and striking architecture.
3. Chilika Lake – Nature’s Paradise
Chilika Lake, which is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, is a haven for tourists with a fondness for birds and nature. Home to hundreds of migratory birds and dolphins, a boat ride through this awesome lake offers you a peaceful and soothing experience.
For all those travellers who wonder about the best tourist places in Odisha with natural beauty, Chilika Lake is no less than perfect. The nearby islands, such as Nalabana Island, add to the charm and are perfect for a trip throughout the day.
Why Visit Chilika Lake: Bird watching, dolphin spotting, and relaxing boat rides.
4. Bhubaneswar – The Temple City
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is commonly known as the City of Temples. With hundreds of ancient temples, it is a paradise for history enthusiasts and divine seekers. One of the oldest temples in Odisha, the Lingaraj Temple, is a must-visit for its magnificent architecture.
Other prominent sites in this town include Mukteshwar Temple, Rajarani Temple, and the contemporary Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves. If you are planning places to visit in Odisha, Bhubaneswar is a convenient base to explore the rich heritage of Odisha.
Why Visit Bhubaneswar: Historical architecture, temple exploration, and urban amenities.
5. Cuttack – Cultural and Historical Hub
One of the oldest cities in Odisha, Cuttack, is well-known for its silver filigree work, which is known as Tarakasi, and its historical monuments. Barabati Fort is a major landmark that reflects the town’s glorious past.
Also known for its vibrant festivals, Cuttack attracts tourists from across the country. It is, in fact, a great stop if exploring tourist places in Odisha is what you have in mind, other than the usual spots.
Why Visit Cuttack: Heritage sites, traditional crafts, and vibrant festivals.
6. Sambalpur – The Western Charm
Located in western Odisha, Sambalpur is well-known for its Hirakud Dam, one of the world’s longest dams. Moreover, this town is famous for the Sambalpuri Saree, a stunning handcrafted textile.
If you are a traveller who wants to explore places to visit in Odisha, you cannot miss Sambalpur, offering you a fine blend of local culture, natural beauty, and traditional crafts.
Why Visit Sambalpur: Beautiful landscapes, textile shopping, and unique temples.
7. Raghurajpur – The Heritage Village
A living example of Odisha’s traditional art legacy! Raghurajpur is well-known for Pattachitra paintings and traditional handicrafts. A visit to this village enables tourists to observe local craftsmen at work and purchase genuine souvenirs.
If you are looking for memorable cultural experiences while exploring tourist places in Odisha, Raghurajpur is a must-visit destination.
Why Visit Raghurajpur: Crafts shopping, engaging cultural experiences, and traditional arts.
8. Gopalpur on Sea – Peaceful Beach Escape
For a more relaxed beach experience compared to Puri, Gopalpur on Sea is perfect. This calm coastal town offers quiet waters, golden sands, and a soothing atmosphere. It is ideal for travellers who not only want to relax but also make the most of nature.
Some of the best tourist places in Odisha include Gopalpur for its soothing environment, exciting water sports, and delicious seafood items. What makes this town so favourite among photographers is the sunrise and sunset views – absolutely breathtaking.
Why Visit Gopalpur on Sea: Serene beaches, stunning sunsets, and adventurous water sports.
9. Dhauli – The Peaceful Historical Site
A small city near Bhubaneswar, Dhauli is known for its connection to Emperor Ashoka and the Kalinga War. The Dhauli Shanti Stupa, which is also known as the Peace Pagoda, represents non-violence. Moreover, it is a peaceful spot for reflection.
For travellers looking to explore the best tourist places in Odisha, Dhauli offers a blend of history and serenity away from fast-paced cities.
Why Visit Dhauli: Divine reflection, historical significance, and serene surroundings.
10. Chandipur – The Unique Beach Phenomenon
Chandipur Beach is unique for its water withdrawal pattern. During a low tide, the sea pulls back up to 5 km, enabling visitors to walk on the seabed. The beach is ideal for a family outing or for photography enthusiasts.
It experiences less crowd compared to Puri or Gopalpur. Furthermore, Chandipur offers fresh seafood and serene surroundings for a relaxing trip. It is one of the most unique experiences among the places to visit in Odisha.
Why Visit Chandipur: Photography opportunities, a calm beach, and a special tide experience.
Tips for Planning Your Odisha Trip
1. Timing is Crucial
Odisha experiences warm, tropical weather. The best time to visit is from October to March for soothing weather.
2. Local Transportation
Buses and trains connect primary tourist hubs. Private taxis, on the other hand, are perfect for exploring remote locations.
3. Cultural Etiquette
Respect temple rules and ensure you are appropriately dressed when visiting spiritual sites, such as the Jagannath Puri Temple.
4. Food You Must Try
You cannot afford to miss Odia delicacies. These include Chhena Poda, Dahi Pakhala, and seafood specialities.
5. Accommodation
Odisha offers a wide range of accommodation options from affordable stays to high-end resorts, especially in Bhubaneswar and Puri.
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Final Thoughts
Odisha is a rich source for travellers who are fond of history, spirituality, nature, and heritage. From the remarkable Jagannath Puri Temple to peaceful beaches, heritage villages, and unique natural wonders, the state of Odisha offers something for every kind of traveller.
The Top 10 tourist places in Odisha trip list includes the essentials. However, it allows flexibility to check out less-known places while travelling.