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Satapara Dolphin Sanctuary is located in Puri district of Indian state Odisha.It is very well known for dolphins in all over the world.It is a home to the Irrawaddy dolphin.The number of Irrawaddy dolphins at Satapada is estimated to be more than 100.Satapada is a very popular tourist attraction, millions of tourists are coming to this place every year to see dolphins, and enjoying the beauty of Nature.
Mangaljodi a bird sanctuary situated 75 km from Bhubaneswar. It's a marshland on the northern edge of chilka lake. It's a bird watchers' paradise. Best time to visit this place is during the winter season when a lot migratory birds visit it. Birds migrate from Ladakh and Himalayan region, Central and South east Asia, Mongolia, and Russia etc and this marshland hosts nearly 300000 birds during winter months.
Shanti Stupa of Dhauligiri is also known as the Peace Pagda. Dhauligiri lies at a distance of 7 Km from Bhubaneswar. As one travels from Bhubaneswar to Puri, one finds Shanti Stupa. The word 'shanti' in the name itself suggests peace. Since King Ashoka adopted the path of peace and tranquility and resorted to Buddhism, he laid the foundation of Dhauligiri Shanti Stupa at a place which is known for the end of Kalinga War. Here, one finds the edict of Lord Budddha which is visited by numerous Buddhist devotees.
Kedargauri Temple (or Kedar Gouri Temple) is among the known ancient temples of Odisha, located near the famous Mukteswara Temple in Bhubaneswar. It is believed to be one of the eight Astasambhu shrines in the city. The presiding deity worshiped at the temple is Lord Shiva, who is also locally known as Kedareshwar.
The oldest and largest temple of Bhubaneswar city, Lingaraj Temple is dedicated to Tribhubaneswar (Lord of Three Worlds). The temple is said to have been built in the 11th century by King Jajati Keshari, but a reference to it has been made in the ancient Hindu scripture called ‘Brahma Purana’. Constructed according to Kalinga style architecture, the 54-meter-high main spire is made up of stones of dark shade. The Garbha Griha houses a self-originated linga (phallic form) of Lord Shiva, known as the ‘Swayambhu’. It is bathed with water, milk, and bhang every day. Besides the sanctum sanctorum, is a pillared hall (Yajna Shala), a dancing hall (Natya Mandap), and another hall for serving sacrament offerings (Bhoga Mandap). The temple campus is fortified by walls enclosing around 50 smaller shrines dedicated to other gods and goddesses.
Located around 290 kilometers from the city, Hirakud Dam is built across the mighty Mahanadi River in Sambalpur, Odisha. It is a popular tourist spot in Bhubaneswar as it is the longest man-made dam in the world and one of the earliest river valley projects of India. It was constructed in 1956 to control the devastating floods and droughts in the Mahanadi River Basin. It is a 56km long architectural wonder that irrigates 7,500,000 hectares of land and generates hydroelectricity. Set in a scenic backdrop of Burla and Hirakud Hills, it is surrounded by lush greenery offering visitors a respite from the bustle of the city. For an enthralling experience, you can drive through the 21-kilometer road over the dam and get awe-inspiring views of the verdant surroundings. You can unwind amidst the natural abundance at the Hirakud Dam. You can also enjoy the quaint atmosphere at the nearby Jawahar Udyan Park maintained by The Water Resources Department.
For a bird’s eye view of the river and luxuriant expanse, you can climb up to the nearby Gandhi and Nehru Minarets. You can also spend time bird watching as the dam is home to several bird species like common pochards and great crested grebes. There are several revered temples in the area such as Budhraja Temple, Ghanteswari Temple, Samaleswari Temple, and the Leaning Temple of Lord Shiva. They are thronged by pilgrims from across the country. Alongside the surreal experience at the dam, you can seek blessings at these venerated temples too.
Built during the reign of the Shailodbhava dynasty in 650 A.D., the Parasurameswara temple is a specimen of the evolution of Oriya architecture. It ostentatiously displays the Deul (tower) and Jagmohana (hall) which were the classic features of temple architecture prevalent in Odisha in those times. The small temple is ornately decorated with sculptures of many Hindu gods like Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, animals, and several floral motifs. The mythological scenes carved on the outer walls of the shrine are a testament to its antiquity. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshipped as Parasurameswar.
Rajarani Temple is an architectural masterpiece from the 11th-century, preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It is a Hindu temple popularly addressed by the locals as the 'love temple' and built towards the end of the Somavasi regime. As there are no images inside the sanctum, the temple is not associated with any particular sect of Hinduism. Historians proclaim the temple was earlier called the Indresvara Temple and was dedicated to Lord Shiva. The carvings on the walls also indicate its association with Shaivism. Historians believe the Rajarani Temple has inspired the architecture of other temples in central India like the Kandariya Mahadev temple of Khajuraho and the Totesvara Mahadeo temple in Kadawa. The temple gets its name from the red and yellow sandstone called Rajarania used in its structure. Apart from the spiritual ecstasy of the temple, you can also spend some quiet time at the well-maintained parks around it. If you’re a classical music lover you can also attend the Rajarani Music Festival organized by the Tourism Department of Odisha in February each year.
Bindu Sarovara or the Bindu Sagar Lake is among the most sacred lakes of Orissa and the largest water body in Bhubaneswar. The lake is 1,300 feet long and 700 feet wide and encompasses a tiny island with several shrines. It is surrounded by several other temples, the main ones being the Lingaraja temple and Anant Vasudeva temple. As per historians, there are 17 water tanks strategically located near temples, and the Ocean Drop Tank or Bindu Sarovara is located near the Lingaraja temple. It has special significance as it is said to contain water from all holy water bodies of India. Legend has it that the lake was created by Lord Shiva to quench the thirst of his wife, Goddess Parvati. The sacramental water of the lake is believed to cure diseases and wash away sins. Visiting Bindu Sarovar is customary for pilgrims visiting the Lingaraja Temple. During the Ashokashtami festival, the main deity from the Lingaraja Temple is bathed in the Bindu Sarovar. The chariot procession is accompanied by enthusiastic devotees and those who wish to catch a glimpse of the deity. The tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of the lake attracts locals and tourists to spend a relaxing day with their family
Located around 140 kilometers from the city, The Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural reserve for several species of wild animals including crocodiles. Sprawling across 795.52 square kilometers around the banks of River Mahanadi including the famous Satkosia gorge, the sanctuary is home to a wide variety of species of animals, birds, and plants. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is the hub of eco-tourism in the state. It offers natural habitat to tigers, leopards, rhesus macaques, gaurs, spotted deer, elephants, four-horned antelopes, sloths, gharial, snakes, turtles, and many others. You can witness the preservation center cum breeding grounds of Gharial especially prepared to facilitate the process by giving them the right atmosphere. In addition to wild animals, you can also spot birds such as the Indian Pitta and Red Jungle Fowl. Frequently visited by animal lovers and nature enthusiasts, the sanctuary gives visitors a chance to explore the unrestricted beauty of the wild. Being the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure junkies, Tikarpada is ranked as the best Family Holiday Destination in the state. You can have an enthralling experience trekking or camping in the sanctuary and enjoy water sports such as fish angling, motor-boat rides, and river rafting.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva as the Lord of spiritual freedom, Mukteswara Temple was built in the 10th century and is among the earliest temples built by the Somavamsi dynasty. Well known for its sculptural excellence it marks the evolution of the Kalinga style of architecture and owing to its beauty it is regarded as the ‘Gem of Odisha’. The temple plays an important role in the study of the historic development of Hindu temples in Odisha and is thus preserved under the Protected Monuments of India. It’s a massive 35 feet high west-facing structure built in sandstone constructed under the aegis of King Yayati I. It contains all elements of Pitha Deula type of Oriya architecture such as a decorative entrance porch (Torana), the sanctum (Vimana), and the leading hall (jagamohana). The beautiful Torana of the temple is one of the most photographed architectural structures of India. Exquisitely sculpted pillars and carved walls of the temple depict scenes from the ancient Panchatantra stories. The temple is home to several shrines and numerous Lingas of Lord Shiva. You can witness the enchanting exteriors carved with motifs and large diamond-shaped lattice windows. Another attraction that drives tourists each year from 14th to 16th January is the Mukteswar Dance Festival organized by the Odisha Tourism Board. It is graced by veterans of Indian classical dance and is a mesmerizing experience to witness the richness of Odisha’s cultural heritage through the dance and celebration at the festival.
Located at the CRP Square in Bhubaneswar, the Odisha State Tribal Museum is dedicated to the 62 tribes of Odisha. It was established in 1953 as the Museum of Tribal Arts & Artefacts to represent the cultural richness of indigenous tribes. In 2001 the new building of the museum was inaugurated and it was renamed as Odisha State Tribal Museum and interests tourists seeking an insight into the tribal life in the region. The museum has been developed on the concept of “Museum of Man” and is popularly known as the ‘Tribal Museum’. You can witness replicas of tribal huts, attire, ornaments, weapons, farming equipment, and artifacts collected from different tribal communities of the state. Their way of conducting life including traditions and food habits has been displayed along with details of the evolution of each tribe. In 2010 the museum was recognized by UNESCO as the ‘Best Tribal Museum of India’ in comparison to the 21 other tribal museums in the country. The live craft kiosk gives you a demonstration of the everyday tribal practices. For deeper anthropological research you can spend some time at the well-stocked library on the premises. You can also shop for souvenirs at the shop in the museum.
Located 20 kilometers away from Bhubaneswar, Nandankanan Zoological Park is a zoo set up amidst the forest of Chandaka. Established in 1960 as a bastion of white tigers the zoo was converted into a natural reserve upon the recommendation of National Geographical Magazine. Stretching over an area of 4.37 sq km, the park offers a natural habitat to the rare species of flora and fauna. The reserve is famous as the first zoo in the world which provides a safe breeding ground for Melanistic and White Tigers. Besides the endangered white tigers and crocodiles, the park is also home to a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, and rare species of birds.
You can look forward to watching the rare wild animals such as the Asiatic lion, Orangutan, lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, Burmese python, Himalayan black bear, mouse deer, rhesus macaque, and blackbuck. In addition to beautiful local birds, several migratory birds flock to the reserve making it a bird watcher’s paradise. You can spot white peacock, blue & yellow macaw, spotted munia, open billed stork, green-winged macaw, and Cinereous Vulture. The serene lake and lush greenery attract tourists and locals to enjoy a relaxing day with friends and family. Other attractions include jungle safari, reptile park, butterfly garden, toy train ride, and boat rides in the lake.
A recent addition to the city, Ram Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama situated in Kharavel Nagar, Janpath. The temple houses attractive images of Lord Rama (incarnation of Lord Vishnu), Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshmana. The complex also houses dedicated shrines for Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, and many other deities. Devotees from across the country visit the temple around the year. The eminent architecture of the temple and bright colors add to its beauty. The temple is located in the heart of the city and the high-rising spires on its Shikharas are easily visible from afar. You can seek blessings and celebrate major Hindu festivals like Ram Navami, Vivaha Panchami, Shivratri, Rakshabandhan, Janmashtami, Dussehra, and Pana Sankranti at the temple. You can enjoy delectable Oriya dishes at the street food stalls in the neighborhood.
One of the four Chausath Yogini Temples in the country, the temple at Hirapur is situated on the bank of Bhargavi River. The only active temple of its kind, it is one of the prominent tourist places to visit in Bhubaneswar. Built-in the 9th century by Queen Hiradevi of the Bhauma dynasty the temple is also known as the Mahamaya Temple. The sandstone temple is circular with a thirty feet diameter and a height of eight feet, making it the smallest Yogini temple of the country. Unlike the prevalent Oriya temple architecture with the linear layout and high rising pyramidal roofs, the Yogini temples were round and had almost no roof.The temple rituals are of tantric nature and in accordance with local rural and tribal traditions. The presiding deity of the temple is Goddess Mahamaya who is adorned in red attire and vermilion.
The 64 Yogini statues are sculpted from fine grey chlorite stone. The sensuous figures of the Yoginis are decorated with ornaments such as necklaces, armlets, bangles, earrings, and weapons such as bows and arrows. Few others are depicted playing musical instruments or standing on human heads, roosters, and peacocks. The locals of Hirapur still worship the deities in the temple while tourists and historians visit the temple out of curiosity.
Located in Berhampur, the Biju Patnaik Park is dedicated to the former chief minister of the state. The park covers an area of about 23 acres including three water bodies. It was formerly known as the ‘Forest Park’ owing to the wide variety of flora and fauna thriving in the area. It has a pristine ambiance which is complimented by jogging tracks, open-air gymnasium, musical fountains, rosarium, and rockeries to keep the visitors engaged. It is a popular getaway among the locals as it has a dedicated play area to keep children occupied. The main sightseeing attraction for tourists visiting the park is the floating mountain and the statue of Late Shri Biju Patnaik unveiled in 2002. The park is mostly crowded during the early morning hours or the late evening hours as the weather is pleasant during these times. Several local clubs like yoga club, laughter therapy club are also operated by regular visitors of the park
Regional Museum of Natural History was established in 2004 under the aegis of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. It was laid down to impart non-formal environmental education and generate awareness about the conservation of natural resources. Being one of its kind among the museums in Eastern India it boasts of unique and rare natural exhibits. The incredible collection of skeletons of rare and extinct animals attracts paleontologists and researchers from across the world. A wide variety of plants and flowers are also on display which lures nature enthusiasts. The taxidermy section displays preserved animals, butterflies, reptiles, and moths. Among the most attractive exhibits is the rare fossil of an egg of the extinct Elephant Bird and the skeleton of Baleen Whale. A special children’s gallery keeps the little ones engaged through interactive displays.
Deras Dam is the third largest dam in Odisha. It is located 25 kilometers away from Bhubaneswar within the Chandaka National Park. The dam was primarily built as an irrigational project but soon became an eco-tourism spot owing to the beauty of its surroundings. The mesmerizing natural charm of the place attracts tourists and locals alike. It has become a popular picnic spot as the serene atmosphere allows visitors to relax and unravel their stress. The rainwater reservoir and a nearby hilltop cottage offer astounding panoramic views of the verdant surroundings. You can enjoy a 40 kilometer guided safari of the Chandaka elephant sanctuary and even book the hilltop cottage for a night stay.
An amusement park perfect for adventure seekers, Nicco Park was built in 1997. It is the most preferred fun spot for locals and tourists. Constructed by BDA in association with Nicco Japan, the park comprises well-manicured gardens and fun rides. There is an artificial lake in the center of the park to add to its beauty. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides in the lake. You can spend a fun filled day with family and kids at the park exploring the various rides and swings at an affordable fee.
Builtby Queen Chandrika of the Chodaganga dynasty in the 13th century, the AnantaVasudev Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is a Vaishnava templeconstructed during the reign of King Bhanudeva at a site where Lord Vishnu hadbeen worshipped from the days of yore. It was renovated in the late 17thcentury by the Marathas. The temple holds special significance for all pilgrimsvisiting Bhubaneswar. As per legend, Lord Shiva moved into his abode at theEkamra Kshetra after permission from Lord Vishnu. The tradition is followed byall pilgrims by visiting the Ananta Vasudev Temple before visiting the othertemples in the city.
Thewest-facing temple houses the idols of Lord Krishna (Vasudeva), Lord Balarama(Ananta), and Goddess Subhadra made of black granite stone. The trinity idolsare housed in the sanctum sanctorum and are different from those found in othertemples. For example, Lord Balarama stands under a seven hooded serpent, whileGoddess Subhadra stands on a jewel pot holding a pot of jewels and a lotus andLord Krishna holds a mace, lotus, a conch, and the Sudarshana chakra. Theunique architecture and beauty of the idols enshrined in the temple attracttourists from across the world. You can visit the temple in August to attendthe grand Janmashtami celebrations comprising prayers, devotional songs, andprasad. The temple has a kitchen where pure vegetarian food is cooked inearthen vessels as an offering to God and is later served to the visitors eachday.
Believed to be one of the most impressive monuments of the state, Sri Jagannath Puri Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Lord of the universe and incarnation of Vishnu). Moreover, this temple holds the utmost religious significance among the Hindus and was constructed by the famous Ananda Verman Chodaganga Dev. Termed as one of the best tourist places in Puri, this richly carved structure is constructed on a high pedestal with four gigantic gates.
A silent paradise for nature seekers, Puri Beach is located on the east coast of the Bay of Bengal. Positioned in close proximity to Jagannath Temple and other renowned temples of Puri, this beach near Bhubaneshwar attracts a large number of tourists. The sun-kissed beach is an apt destination to enjoy a perfect vacation with your family and friends. Also, the honeymooners can stroll along the breezy shores and explore the mesmerizing view of sunrise and sunset. This is one of the top tourist spots in Puri and makes your vacation more memorable.
Asia’s largest salt-water lagoon, Chilika Lake is stretched across three districts(Puri, Ganjam, and Khordha in Orissa) and is separated by a narrow neckline from the waters of the Bay of Bengal. Dotted with many small islands of lush green natural beauty, this lake is positioned approximately 50kms from Puri. Enjoy the beauty of the flocks of flying migratory birds during the winter season. Apart from bird watching, this lake is also famous for boating, fishing, and many other things. So don’t miss to explore this spot which is one of the outstanding tourist places in Puri.
One of the famous Puri destinations, Swargadwar Beach is where you can enjoy watching sunsets. It is the most popular spot in the religious town. The place is crowded throughout the year with visitors. There are a number of stalls from where you can buy seashells, jewelry, and handmade products. Taking a stroll by the beach is one of the best things you can do in Puri. Gaze at the ocean while you enjoy munchies and hot tea.
