Picture Credit: Odisha Tourism |
What you don't usually find elsewhere in India is what you can probably
find in the state of Odisha, located along the country's eastern coast, with a
coastline of about 485 kms. The state in itself is easily accessible, and its major airport is in Bhubaneswar, Odisha’s capital city.
Odisha has been given many names until now – some call it
India’s sports capital, some know it as a place rooted in deep history and heritage,
some refer it to as the “green state” as it is calm, serene and laid back, while
others refer it as the humble abode of Lord Jagannath, where the annual Rath
Yatra festival is celebrated.
However, the state is known as “India’s Best Kept
Secret” which is gradually being explored by tourists from near and far, who
are visiting Odisha to soak in its enchanting beauty. While on one side, you
can find a radiant flaunt of heritage and history in the monuments of this
state such as Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, on the other side, Odisha is
home to exotic beaches, significant shrines, breathtaking forts, sparkling
waterfalls, sprawling biodiversity, vibrant ethnicity, and most importantly
friendly people.
Although it’s almost impossible to list down every tourist spot in Odisha, here is a compilation of a few enchanting places
that you can explore through Odisha Tour Packages.
1) Dhauligiri
The great Kalinga war took place here, and Dhauligiri also
witnessed King Ashoka’s transformation into a Buddhist follower. The Buddhist
teachings still reverberate on the walls of Dhauligiri. Well, if the tales sound
interesting, this place should form a part of your must visit list in Odisha. What
you are going to take back from here are the beautiful sight of the Shanti
Stupa, fantastic learnings of the Buddhist culture, and some wondrous natural
views of the Dhauli hills.
2) Temple Hopping in Bhubaneswar
If you’re a religious person, Bhubaneswar has lots to
offer with more than 600 temples spread across the city. You might not be able
to cover all of them in a couple days, but you ought to visit a few important
ones such as Lingaraj temple, Ram Mandir, Iskcon Temple, Rajarani Temple and
Mukteswar Temple to pay obeisance and receive blessings. Even if being religious is not how
you want to spend your days in this city, it is still suggested that you visit
these places. One would definitely be enthralled gazing at the architectural
beauty and uniqueness which each of these temples exhibit.
Lingaraj Temple (Photo Credit: Odisha Tourism) |
Mukteshwar Temple (Photo Credit: Odisha Tourism) |
3) Puri Temple & Beach
A tour of Odisha is never complete without taking a trip
to the land of Lord Jagannath. After visiting the Puri Temple, head straight to
the Puri Beach to rejuvenate yourself by the beach. In case you are looking for
more serenity, then take the Puri-Konark Marine Drive route, and make your way
towards the Ramchandi Beach. The journey is interesting with gorgeous scenic views laced all along.
4) Wildlife escapade
Odisha is a land of exotic birds, crocodiles, tigers,
deer, elephants, dolphins, turtles and many more species. While Bhitarkanika
sanctuary is where you’ll spot saltwater crocodiles, Gahirmatha marine
sanctuary is where the Olive Ridley turtles pay their annual visit. If you
really want to enjoy the wild side of Odisha, and don’t have much time to
travel to far-off places, then do visit Nandankanan Zoological Park and Chilika
wildlife sanctuary, as both of them offer wonderful wildlife moments.
Apart from these, one can visit Koraput for an ultimate
‘surreal trip’, or head to Raghurajpur village for a hands-on experience on
Pattachitra art, or join any of the eco-tour nature camps for a memorable
stay and an adventurous experience. Odisha truly and definitely has a lot to
offer for visitors.
P.S.: This post is in collaboration with Best Choice Holiday
Nice places :)
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