Odisha, also known as Orissa, is a state located in the eastern part of India. It is the 9th largest state in India by area and the 11th largest by population. The state is surrounded by the Bay of Bengal in the east, West Bengal in the northeast, Jharkhand in the north, Chhattisgarh in the west and Andhra Pradesh in the south.
Odisha has a rich history and culture that dates back to the ancient times. The state was ruled by various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, Mughals, and Marathas, before the British took over in the 19th century. Odisha was a part of the Bengal Presidency during the British era and became a separate state after India gained independence in 1947.
Odisha is known for its beautiful temples, beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural heritage. The famous Jagannath Temple in Puri, which is one of the four sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites, attracts millions of devotees every year. Odisha is also home to the Sun Temple in Konark, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural marvel. The state is also known for its pristine beaches like Puri, Chandrabhaga, and Gopalpur, which are popular tourist destinations.
Apart from its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Odisha is also known for its industries such as steel, aluminum, and power generation. The state has made significant progress in the areas of education, healthcare, and infrastructure development in recent years. In this article, we will explore 7 most famous tourist places in Odisha.
# The Grand Hidden Canyon Of OdishaThe Grand Hidden Canyon of Odisha, situated in a small village near the Sundargarh district, is an exceptional destination that has yet to be explored by many tourists. This largely undiscovered and pristine location is particularly remarkable for its distinctive wide rocky bed, which is unlike any other canyon found in the state. The stunning Ib River, a tributary of the majestic Mahanadi River, flows through this breathtaking canyon and is sure to captivate visitors. Additionally, the presence of a beautiful Shiva Temple on the banks of the River Ib adds to the charm of this extraordinary place, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique experience in Odisha.
# Chandipur BeachChandipur Beach is a remarkable and relatively unexplored destination in Odisha that is sure to leave visitors in awe. Situated approximately 16 km from Baleswar Railway Station, the beach is particularly renowned for its unique Vanishing Sea phenomenon. During low tide, the sea recedes by almost 5 to 6 km, only to reappear at high tide, creating an extraordinary sight that must be seen to be believed. A visit to this beach is an experience of a lifetime, and it is highly recommended that you include it in your travel itinerary when visiting Odisha.
# Red Mud PondNalco's Red Mud Pond in Odisha's Koraput district is an extraordinary and relatively undiscovered destination. The pond's unique feature is the striking red hue of the entire body of water, which makes visitors feel like they are on Mars while still on Earth. The red color is due to the red mud suspension floating on top of the settled solid mud in the highly alkaline water. Over time, the red mud slowly settles in the vast pond, transforming the entire body of water into a remarkable red hue. A visit to this stunning location is highly recommended for anyone seeking an unusual and unforgettable experience in Odisha.
# Kuntroo Waterfall, DeogarhSituated beneath the Margah-Kailash range and a mere 2 km from Gailo and 22 km from Deogarh town, Kuntroo Waterfall, also known as the Cave Waterfall, is a stunning destination endowed with natural wonders. The surrounding hills and dense forest add to the allure of this beautiful location, and visitors are sure to be captivated by its scenic beauty. Just 7 km away is the Kailash Palace, another noteworthy attraction in the area. To reach this hidden waterfall, visitors must trek up the hill, but the effort is well worth it. The peaceful environment around the waterfall only adds to the overall enjoyment of the experience, making it a destination worth returning to time and time again.
# Tensa HillsTucked away amidst dense forests and majestic green hills, Tensa is a quaint hill station that boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and evergreen forests. Situated 110 km from Rourkela city and at an altitude of 3700 meters above sea level, this hidden gem offers a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you are planning a trip to Odisha and seeking to discover some of the state's lesser-known and unique destinations, be sure not to miss Tensa.
# SaptasajyaSaptasajya, located in the Dhenkanal district of Odisha, is a stunning destination that showcases a perfect combination of culture, heritage, spirituality, and natural beauty. This place is surrounded by seven hills, hence the name Saptasajya. According to one legend, the seven saints or Saptarishi had their ashramas in this place, which was called Seven Beds or Seven Homes. Another belief is that Lord Ram spent seven days in this beautiful place during his exile. The Pandavas also chose Saptasajya hill for their shelter during their 12-year exile and one year of incognito life.
The top of the hill features a holy temple of Raghunath or Shri Ram, situated at a height of 900 feet. A stream flows down through the temple, adding to the place's beauty. This less-explored destination also houses a small protected forest reserve, dominated mainly by Sal trees, and officially recognized as a sanctuary in 1970. The sanctuary boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, wild goats, buffaloes, cows, and various bird species. Additionally, the area features a medicinal garden.
# Deomali
Deomali, a hidden gem of Odisha, is located at an altitude of 1672 meters and is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It offers various trekking opportunities to beautiful waterfalls like Rani Duduma and Gulmi Duduma, and also dense valleys that you can explore on a nature walk. Another attraction of Deomali is the cave shrine of Gupteswar. If you happen to visit Deomali on a Thursday, you can also visit the weekly market set up by the Bondas, a local tribe, in Onkadelli.