Bhubaneswar: With the onset of the new year, people are busy making plans for what could be the best holiday destination for the upcoming year. If you’re looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate, look no further. Odisha has been a major tourist destination in India for decades now. The state has some of the most beautiful and well-preserved heritage sites, temples, beaches, wildlife reserves, and other attractions. Here is a list of ten holiday destinations in Odisha to visit this new year.
1. Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar is the capital of Odisha, and it boasts some of the best historical sites in the state. From the majestic Lingaraj Temple to the grand Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, there are plenty of places to explore. It’s also home to the famous Nandankanan Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with some of the most exotic animals.
The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves are known for their intricate carvings and are a great place to explore ancient history. Dhauli, a small village located near Bhubaneswar, is a great place to explore the history of Emperor Ashoka and learn about Buddhism. Nandankanan is a great place to explore wildlife and learn about animal conservation.
2. Puri: Puri is a holy city in Odisha, and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. There are plenty of places to explore here, including the 12th century temple of Jagannath and the exquisite beaches. You can also visit the local markets to pick up some souvenirs and mementos.
The Jagannath Temple is one of the four most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. The temple has a rich cultural heritage and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
If you are looking for a unique experience, then you should visit the Puri Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in India. It has a long stretch of golden sand, and is a great place to relax and unwind. You can also enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, and sunbathing.
3. Konark: Konark is a small town located in the district of Puri, and it’s known for its ancient temple of Sun God. The architecture of the temple is simply breathtaking, and it’s definitely worth a visit. You can also explore the nearby beach of Chandrabhaga, which is famous for its sunsets. The Konark Sun Temple is constructed in the shape of a chariot and has 12 intricately carved wheels. The temple also has many sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses, making it a unique and fascinating place to visit.
4. Chilika Lake: Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lake in India and the second largest lagoon in the world. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including a number of endangered species such as the Irrawaddy dolphin and Siberian crane. It is an important stopover for migratory birds during their annual migrations. It has a calm and tranquil atmosphere that makes it perfect for a relaxed day out. You can take a boat ride to explore the lake, or you can even go fishing. It is a popular spot for birdwatchers.
5. Gopalpur: Gopalpur is a small town in Ganjam district located on the Bay of Bengal, and it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, you can enjoy the pristine beaches, explore the local markets, and indulge in some of the best seafood in the state.
6. Bhitarkanika National Park: Bhitarkanika National Park in Kendrapara district is one of the largest mangrove forests in India and is home to a vast variety of flora and fauna. It is a great place to spot crocodiles and other wildlife. The landscape of Bhitarkanika is dominated by lush mangrove forests, estuaries, creeks, backwaters, saltwater marshes, and open grassy meadows. It is home to a variety of animals, including the endangered Saltwater Crocodile. The sanctuary also provides a safe habitat for a number of other mammals.
7. Simlipal National Park: Simlipal National Park in Mayurbhanj district is a wildlife reserve in Odisha. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. It is a great place to spot some wildlife. Apart from its rich biodiversity, the park is also known for its picturesque landscapes. The park is a great spot to explore the wild and enjoy nature.
8. Daringbadi: Daringbadi is a hill station in Kandhamal district known for its picturesque views and cooler climate. The place is blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year and is known as the ‘Kashmir of Odisha’. One can also explore the nearby tribal villages and get an insight into their culture and lifestyle. The place is known for its coffee plantations.
9. Hirakud Dam: Hirakud Dam is an important dam about 15 km from Sambalpur town. It is a great place to explore the history of the state and learn about the importance of water conservation. It is considered to be one of the most important engineering feats in India. It is a great place to visit for anyone interested in engineering and hydrology.
10. Chandipur Beach: Chandipur Beach is an exciting beach destination in Odisha. It is situated on the Bay of Bengal coastline and is known for its pristine white sand, crystal clear waters and stunning sunsets. One of the unique features of Chandipur beach is its low tide, which recedes up to five kilometers, revealing a wide expanse of sand and shallow waters. This phenomenon makes the beach ideal for exploration and allows visitors to observe the diverse marine life in the area.
If you’re looking for an exciting holiday destination this new year, then these places in Odisha are definitely worth considering. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head out for a memorable holiday in Odisha!
