District-wise Tourist Places in Odisha
1. Angul District
- Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary: A significant wildlife sanctuary spanning across Angul, Nayagarh, Cuttack, and Boudh districts. It’s known for its gharial conservation project, dense forests, and scenic gorge on the Mahanadi River.
- Tikarpada: A major eco-tourism spot within Satkosia, famous for gharial breeding and boating.
- Deulajhari: Hot springs with medicinal properties, associated with a Shiva temple.
- Kapilas: Famous for the Kapilas Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and a deer park.
2. Balasore District
- Chandipur Beach: Unique “receding sea” phenomenon, where the sea recedes up to 5 km during low tide, allowing visitors to walk on the seabed.
- Panchalingeswar Temple: A picturesque temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on a hilltop, with five lingams submerged in a perennial stream.
- Remuna: Famous for the Khirachora Gopinath Temple, associated with Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
- Bichitrapur Mangrove Sanctuary: A newly developed eco-tourism spot known for its mangrove forests and boat rides.
3. Bargarh District
- Nrusinghanath Temple & Gandhamardan Hills: A sacred temple dedicated to Lord Nrusinghanath at the foothills of the Gandhamardan hills, known for its medicinal plants and a perennial waterfall (Papaharini).
- Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: Located near the Hirakud Dam, known for its biodiversity, including elephants, tigers, and a wide variety of birds. It’s a significant eco-tourism destination.
- Hatibari: Known for a majestic elephant-headed rock formation.
- Ghanteswari Temple: A unique temple where bells (ghanta) are offered by devotees.
4. Bhadrak District
- Akhandalamani Temple: A prominent Shiva temple at Aradi, on the banks of the River Baitarani.
- Dhamrai Temple (Dhamra): An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Dhamrai, located near the Dhamra Port.
- Bhadrakali Temple: A significant Shakti shrine.
- Biranchinarayan Sun Temple (Palia): A unique temple dedicated to the Sun God in a standing posture.
5. Boudh District
- Padmatola and Satkosia Sanctuary: Portions of the Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary fall under Boudh, offering dense forests and wildlife.
- Marjakuda Island: A beautiful island in the Mahanadi River.
- Bhairabi Mandir, Purunakatak: A religious site dedicated to Goddess Bhairabi.
6. Bolangir District
- Ranipur Jharial: Known as “Soma Tirth,” it’s a unique archaeological site with a cluster of temples, including a famous 64 Yogini temple and the Indralath brick temple.
- Harishankar Temple & Waterfall: A popular pilgrimage site and picnic spot, featuring a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and a beautiful waterfall.
- Gandhamardan Hill: Shared with Bargarh district, known for its rich medicinal flora.
- Bhima Dunguri: Ancient natural caves and a scenic spot.
7. Cuttack District
- Barabati Fort: Historical fort ruins, symbolizing the ancient glory of Kalinga.
- Cuttack Chandi Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi, the presiding deity of Cuttack.
- Dhabaleswar Island & Temple: A popular Shiva temple located on an island in the Mahanadi River, accessible by a suspension bridge.
- Odisha State Maritime Museum: Showcases Odisha’s rich maritime history, located at the site of an old British workshop.
- Netaji Birthplace Museum: The ancestral home of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, converted into a museum.
- Ansupa Lake: The only freshwater lake in Odisha, a picturesque spot for boating and birdwatching.
8. Deogarh District
- Pradhanpat Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall and a popular picnic spot.
- Deogarh Palace: The historical palace of the erstwhile royal family.
9. Dhenkanal District
- Kapilas Temple: As mentioned in Angul, it’s also a significant site in Dhenkanal district, known for the Shiva temple and deer park.
- Saptasajya: A scenic spot with seven hills, a temple complex (Raghunath Temple), and a botanical garden.
- Joranda Gadi: Headquarters of the Mahima Dharma, a unique religious sect, known for its distinctive temple architecture.
- Nandini Eco Park (Gengutia Dam): A popular picnic spot with a dam and green surroundings.
10. Gajapati District
- Mahendragiri Hills: A legendary mountain mentioned in Hindu epics, known for its rich biodiversity, ancient temples, and stunning views. It’s a biodiversity heritage site.
- Gandahati Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forests.
- Mankadadian Waterfall: Another scenic waterfall in the district.
11. Ganjam District
- Chilika Lake (Rambha, Barkul, Chilika): Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, a Ramsar site, famous for migratory birds (especially during winter), Irrawaddy dolphins, and serene boat rides. Major entry points are Rambha and Barkul.
- Gopalpur-on-Sea: A popular beach resort town with a historic lighthouse.
- Taratarini Temple: A famous Shakti Peetha located on a hilltop, attracting numerous devotees.
- Jaugarh: An ancient archaeological site with rock edicts of Ashoka.
- Pati Sonapur Beach: A pristine and secluded beach.
- Padmasambhava Mahavihara (Chandragiri): A large Buddhist monastery and refugee settlement, a significant cultural site.
12. Jagatsinghpur District
- Paradeep Port: One of India’s major seaports, offering commercial views.
- Sarala Temple (Jhankad): A famous Shakti shrine dedicated to Goddess Sarala.
- Gorekhnath Temple: A Shiva temple.
- Garh Kujanga (Kunjabihari Temple): Historical site with a temple dedicated to Lord Kunjabihari.
13. Jajpur District
- Biraja Temple: One of the most ancient and revered Shakti Peethas in India, dedicated to Goddess Viraja.
- Buddhist Sites (Diamond Triangle): Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, Lalitgiri: A cluster of ancient Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and archaeological sites, showcasing Odisha’s rich Buddhist heritage.
- Dasaswamedha Ghat: A sacred ghat on the Baitarani River.
- Chandikhole: Known for its Chandi Temple and scenic surroundings.
14. Jharsuguda District
- Jhadeswar Temple (Jharsuguda): An ancient Shiva temple.
- Koili Ghughar Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall and picnic spot.
- Belpahar (Limestone caves, historical sites): Known for its industrial significance and some historical spots.
15. Kalahandi District
- Phurlijharan Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall and a popular picnic destination.
- Dokrichanchara Waterfall: Another beautiful waterfall.
- Asurgarh Fort: An ancient fort with archaeological significance.
- Bhawanipatna (Manikeswari Temple): The district headquarters, known for its Manikeswari Temple.
- Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants and leopards.
16. Kandhamal District
- Daringbadi: Often referred to as the “Kashmir of Odisha” due to its cool climate, pine forests, coffee plantations, and scenic beauty. It’s a popular hill station.
- Putudi Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
- Mandasaru Gorge: A significant biodiversity hotspot.
17. Kendrapara District
- Bhitarkanika National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary: A Ramsar site and a significant mangrove ecosystem, famous for saltwater crocodiles, King Cobras, and a diverse range of migratory birds. Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is adjacent, known for Olive Ridley sea turtle nesting.
- Aul Palace: Historical palace of the erstwhile Aul royal family.
- Hukitola Island: An old historical building on an island, once a granary for the British.
18. Keonjhar District
- Ghatagaon Tarini Temple: A very popular shrine dedicated to Goddess Tarini, attracting devotees from all over the state.
- Sanaghagara Waterfall: A scenic waterfall and a popular picnic spot.
- Badaghagara Waterfall: Another picturesque waterfall, known for its perennial flow.
- Kushaleswar Temple: An ancient Shiva temple.
- Hadagarh Dam & Sanctuary: A dam on the Salandi River, with a wildlife sanctuary nearby.
- Sitabinji Fresco Painting: Ancient rock paintings.
19. Khordha District
- Bhubaneswar (Temple City of India):
- Lingaraj Temple: One of the most magnificent temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, representing Kalinga architecture.
- Rajarani Temple: Known for its exquisite sculptures and unique architecture, often called the “Love Temple.”
- Mukteswar Temple: A gem of Odishan architecture, famous for its elaborate carvings and the “Torana” archway.
- Parsurameswar Temple: One of the oldest surviving temples in Bhubaneswar.
- Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: Ancient rock-cut caves, predominantly Jain shrines, with historical inscriptions (Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela).
- Dhauli Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda): Located on Dhauli Hill, where Emperor Ashoka is believed to have renounced violence after the Kalinga War. Offers panoramic views of the Daya River.
- Nandankanan Zoological Park: A major zoo and botanical garden, famous for its white tigers and conservation breeding programs.
- Odisha State Museum: The largest museum in Odisha, housing vast collections of archaeology, epigraphy, art, and palm-leaf manuscripts.
- Museum of Tribal Arts & Artifacts (Tribal Museum): Showcases the rich tribal heritage of Odisha.
- Kala Bhoomi Odisha Crafts Museum: Dedicated to the traditional crafts and handlooms of Odisha.
- Chilika Lake (Balugaon, Kalijai Temple): Southern part of Chilika Lake, known for the Kalijai Temple located on an island.
- Atri Hot Spring: A popular hot sulfur spring, believed to have medicinal properties, near a temple.
20. Koraput District
- Duduma Waterfall (Machhkund): One of the highest waterfalls in Odisha, forming the Machhkund hydroelectric project.
- Sabara Srikhetra (Koraput): A sacred place for tribal people, housing the Jagannath Temple (Jagannath of the Tribals).
- Gupteswar Cave Temple: A natural cave enshrining a Shiva lingam, located amidst dense forests.
- Jeypore (Jagannath Sagar, Sunabeda): A major town in the region.
- Kolab Reservoir: A scenic reservoir with boating facilities.
21. Malkangiri District
- Balimela Dam: A large dam and reservoir offering scenic views.
- Gurupriya Setu: A newly constructed bridge connecting the isolated areas of the district, often called the “Bridge of Hope.”
- Chitrakonda Dam: Another significant dam.
22. Mayurbhanj District
- Similipal National Park & Biosphere Reserve: A vast national park and tiger reserve, known for its Royal Bengal Tigers, elephants, waterfalls (Barehipani, Joranda), and rich biodiversity. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- Baripada: The district headquarters, known for its Jagannath Temple (often called Dwitiya Srikshetra).
- Khiching: An ancient historical site with the Kichakeswari Temple and a museum housing archaeological artifacts from the Bhanja dynasty.
- Devkund Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall and a pilgrimage site.
23. Nabarangpur District
- Podagada: An archaeological site with remnants of ancient temples.
- Papunagani: Known for a confluence of three rivers.
24. Nayagarh District
- Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary (Tikarapada): Shared with Angul, offers pristine natural beauty and wildlife.
- Ranpur: Known for the Maninageswar Temple.
- Odagaon (Raghunathjew Temple): Famous for a historic Jagannath temple.
- Kantilo (Nilamadhab Temple): A sacred temple dedicated to Lord Nilamadhab (a form of Vishnu), associated with the origin of the Jagannath cult.
- Atri Hot Spring: As mentioned in Khordha, also accessible from parts of Nayagarh.
25. Nuapada District
- Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its dry deciduous forests and potential tiger habitat.
- Patora Dam: A scenic dam and picnic spot.
- Yogimath: A significant religious site.
26. Puri District
- Jagannath Temple, Puri: The most famous pilgrimage site in Odisha, one of the Char Dham, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The annual Rath Yatra (Car Festival) is world-renowned.
- Puri Beach: A popular beach for pilgrims and tourists, known for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere.
- Konark Sun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, an architectural marvel depicting a colossal chariot of the Sun God.
- Chilika Lake (Satapada): The most popular entry point to Chilika Lake, famous for Irrawaddy dolphin sightings and boat rides.
- Raghurajpur Heritage Village: A heritage crafts village known for its Pattachitra paintings, Gotipua dance, and traditional crafts.
- Pipili: Famous for its appliqué work.
- Brahmagiri (Alarnatha Temple): A temple associated with Lord Jagannath, where devotees visit when the main Puri temple is closed.
27. Rayagada District
- Majhighariani Temple (Rayagada): A popular Shakti shrine.
- Chatikona Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall and a popular picnic spot, near a Shiva temple.
- Devagiri Hills: Known for its ancient cave and religious significance.
- Hatipathar Waterfall: Another scenic waterfall.
28. Sambalpur District
- Hirakud Dam: One of the longest earthen dams in the world, built across the Mahanadi River, forming a vast reservoir. Offers scenic views.
- Samaleswari Temple: A prominent Shakti shrine dedicated to Goddess Samaleswari, the presiding deity of Sambalpur.
- Huma Temple (Leaning Temple): A unique leaning temple dedicated to Lord Bimaleswar (Shiva).
- Ushakothi (Badrama) Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its elephants and other wildlife.
- Ghanteswari Temple: As mentioned in Bargarh, a unique temple where bells are offered.
29. Subarnapur (Sonepur) District
- Sonepur (Cosali Ganapati Temple, Subarnameru Temple): The district headquarters, with several ancient temples and a rich cultural heritage.
- Paschima Somanath Temple: An ancient Shiva temple.
- Lankeswari Temple: A temple situated on an island in the Mahanadi River.
30. Sundargarh District
- Vedavyas: A pilgrimage site with a cave where the sage Vyasadeva is believed to have composed parts of the Mahabharata. Located at the confluence of rivers.
- Darjeeng: A scenic spot near the Brahmani River.
- Khandadhar Waterfall: One of the highest waterfalls in Odisha, a popular tourist destination.
- Mandira Dam: A picturesque dam and picnic spot.
- Ghogar: A sacred Shiva shrine.
- Rourakela (Steel City, Hanuman Vatika): An industrial city with various points of interest, including the Hanuman Vatika temple complex.
District wise Tourist Places in Odisha
| District | Location | Importance of the place | |||
| Angul | Deulajhari | Hot Spring | |||
| Tikarpada | Scenic Spot and Wildlife, Crocodile Sanctuary | ||||
| Talcher | Coal Mines | ||||
| Balangir | Harishankar, Patnagarh | Religious Centre | |||
| Ranipur Jharial | 64 Yogi Shrine | ||||
| Katabanjhi | Scenic Spot | ||||
| Balasore | Chandaneswar, Remuna | Religious Centre | |||
| Chandipur | Vanishing Beach | ||||
| Kasaphal, Talasari | Sea Beach | ||||
| Panchalingeswar | Scenic Spot | ||||
| Inchudi | Historical place during freedom struggle | ||||
| Digha | Sea beach an Odisha Bengal Border | ||||
| Bargarh | Bargarh | Sambalpuri Handloom | |||
| Debrigarh, Deogarh | Wildlife/Scenic Spot | ||||
| Nrusimhanth | Religious Centre | ||||
| Bhadrak | Chandbali | Entry Point to Bhitarkanika | |||
| Aradi | Religious Centre | ||||
| Boudh | Boudh | Buddhist Shrine | |||
| Padmatola | Hill resort | ||||
| Cuttack | Cuttack | Historical Site and Silver Filigree | |||
| Ansupa | Largest fresh water lake in Odisha | ||||
| Bhattarika | Religious Centre | ||||
| Lalitgiri | Buddhist Shrine | ||||
| Deogarh | Pradhanpat | Waterfall | |||
| Dhenkanal | Joranda | Mahima Shrine | |||
| Kaplias | Religious Centre | ||||
| Ganjam | Berhampur | Tie and Dye Tassar Textiles | |||
| Buguda, Mahurikalua, Tara Tarini | Religious Centre | ||||
| Gopalpur, Pati-Sonapur, Dhabaleswar | Sea Beach | ||||
| Taptapani | Scenic Spot and Hot Spring | ||||
| Jagatsinghpur | Jhankada | Religious Centre | |||
| Paradeep | Sea Port and Fish Trading Centre | ||||
| Jajpur | Jajpur, Chandikhole, Chhatia | Religious Centre | |||
| Ratnagiri and Udayagiri | Buddhist Shrine | ||||
| Kalahandi | Phurilijharan | Waterfall | |||
| Thuamul-Rampur | Scenic Spot | ||||
| Kandhamal | Daringbadi | Scenic Spot | |||
| Baliguda | Religious Centre | ||||
| Kendrapara | Bhitarkanika | Wildlife | |||
| Kendrapara | Religious Centre | ||||
| Keonjhar | Murga Mahadev, Podasingidi (Garh Chandi, Chakratirtha), Ghatgaon | Religious Centre | |||
| Sanaghagra, Kandadhar | Waterfall | ||||
| District | Location | Importance of the place | |||
| Sarai ( Keshri Kunda) | Religious and Scenic Spot | ||||
| Sitabinji | Fresco Paintings | ||||
| Khordha | Atri | Hot Spring | |||
| Chilika ( Keshri Kunda) | Idyllic Lake | ||||
| Dhauli | Buddhist Site | ||||
| Hirapur | 64 Yogini Shrine | ||||
| Khandagiri and Udayagiri | Jain Caves | ||||
| Nandankanan | Zoological Park | ||||
| Balugaon | Scenic Spot | ||||
| Koraput | Gupteswar | Religious Centre | |||
| Sunabeda, Jeypore, Duduma ( Machhakund ) | Scenic Spot | ||||
| Malkangiri | Chitrakonda, Balimela | Scenic Spot | |||
| Mayurbhanj | Bhimakund, Jashipur | Scenic Spot | |||
| Devkund | Waterfall | ||||
| Khiching, Manatri | Religious Centre | ||||
| Similipal | National Park | ||||
| Nuapada | Patora | Scenic Spot | |||
| Patalaganga | Perennial Spring | ||||
| Nabarangpur | Papadahandi, Umarkote | Religious Centre | |||
| Nayagarh | Odagaon, Kantilo, Sarankul | Religious Centre | |||
| Puri | Pipili | Appliqué Works | |||
| Puri | Sri Jagannath Temple and Sea Beach | ||||
| Raghurajpur | Craft Village | ||||
| Ramachandi, Satyabadi (Sankhigopal), Kakatpur | Religious Centre | ||||
| Astaranga | Sea Beach | ||||
| Chilika (Satapada) | Lake ( Dolphins) | ||||
| Rayagada | Chatikona, Hatipathar | Scenic Spot | |||
| Sambalpur | Hirakud | Scenic Spot | |||
| Huma, Burla | Religious Centre Religious Centre | ||||
| Subarnapur | Binika (Papakshya Ghat) | Religious Centre | |||
| Sonepur | Temple Town | ||||
| Sundargarh | Mandira | Scenic Spot | |||
| Vedvyas | Religious Centre | ||||