Button Button arrow

0

TRAVEL

5 Hidden Gems of Odisha That You Must Visit

By Seema Misra

21 August, 2018

Do Not Miss Visiting These Places If You Are Going To Odisha

 

“A violet by a mossy stone

Half hidden from the eye!”

 

- William Wordsworth

    Off popular tourists routes, tucked away on the eastern shore of India is the state of Odisha (Orissa). Travellers who brave the untrodden path to journey through Odisha are rewarded with endless virgin beaches; exotic tribes; a melange of handloom and craft styles; ancient temples; unspoilt forests; hot springs; breath-taking gorges and so much more.   If you plan a trip to this land of hidden beauty, here are top five Odisha attractions you must not miss.    
  • Bhitarkanika National Park

  BananiVista, Odisha Image Source: Orissa Diary   India’s second largest mangrove forest, this cluster of islands is one of the most enchanting tourist places in Odisha. There’s an abundance of natural beauty here: fascinating mangrove trees; turtles and crocodiles; beautiful rivers that criss-cross each other; feathered visitors from far-off lands. Raw, beautiful, and untouched – it’s perfect for hikes and boat rides.   How to reach: From Bhubaneswar, you can reach by road (152 km.) within 3 hours.   Where to stay: There are several accommodations to choose from at Bhitarakanika. Sand Pebbles Jungle Resorts is the most recommended.      
  • Chandipur (Hide and Seek) Beach

  BananiVista, Odisha Image Source: Amazing India Blog   The jewel of Odisha tourism, this unique beach is famous for its ever-changing coastline. The sea recedes up to 5 kilometres twice a day! You can see cattle grazing, scattered sea shells, and ships on land – which a while ago was covered with waves.   How to reach there:  From Bhubaneswar, you can reach Chandipur by road (207 km.) within 4.5 hours. You can take a train to Balasore Railway Station, and hire an auto or taxi to the beach.   Where to stay: There are several sea-facing hotels to choose from.      
  • Satkosia Tiger Reserve

  BananiVista, Odisha Image Source: Satkosia.org   Mahanadi river has carved a stunning 22 kilometre gorge on the Eastern Ghats. This gorge and the surrounding forests comprise Satkosia Tiger Reserve. The serenity of the river and the dense forests along with rich flora and fauna make it a haven for nature lovers. Early morning risers get treated to the wonderful sight of crocodiles sunbathing.   How to reach there: Satkosia is approximately 200 km. from Bhubaneswar. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Satkosia within 4 hours.   Where to stay: You can stay in one of the three nature camps here: Chhotkei, Purunakote, or Tikarapada.      
  • Lamptaput, Koraput

  BananiVista, Odisha Image Source: Thebetterindia.com   Stay in Lamptaput, the heartland of tribal Odisha, in a sunlit, artistic resort. Set up by an Oriya engineer, this eco-tourism venture provides schooling and employment to the tribes of Koraput. It has gained popularity amongst discerning foreign travellers as the resort provides an authentic glimpse of tribal life: exotic tribal food; colourful markets; locally made liquors (like mahua); dances and performances; verdant fields; and thick forests.   How to reach there: Lamptaput is a 4.5 hours’ drive from Vizag and a 10 hours drive from Bhubaneswar.   Where to stay: Desia Tourism Camp      
  • Mangaljodi

  BananiVista, Odisha Image Source: The Hindu   Mangaljodi is a scenic wetland on the banks of Chilika lake. It attracts thousands of migratory birds during winter. Erstwhile poachers from nearby communities have taken to being birdwatching and nature guides here. Cruise on a small, round wooden boat, through weeds and vast expanses of the lake. Watch thousands of birds take flight. A memory of a lifetime!   How to reach there: Mangaljodi is 69 km. from Bhubaneswar and you can reach there via car within an hour and a half. Early mornings and dusk are the best time to visit.   Where to stay: Mangalajodi Eco Tourism Resort     Odisha tourist attractions offer varied travel experiences sure to win you over with their pure and authentic charms. So, whenever you plan a trip to Odisha, keep these lesser-known destinations on your itinerary. It will be an experience of a lifetime.     For more interesting content, Like our Facebook page, Follow us on Twitter, and Subscribe to our digital magazine BananiVista.