Jagannath Dham, Puri – The term ‘Jagannath’ is made from 2 words including ‘Jagat’ and ‘Natha’, where ‘Jagat’ means World or Universe and ‘Natha’ means Master or Lord. Puri is the famous magical pilgrimage city in Odisha, a place which is dedicated to Lord Jagannath and also been popular as Jagannath Puri or Jagannath Dham. Lord Jagannath is the supreme power at Puri temple and he is worshipped with his brother Lord Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. The city is recognized among the holy Char Dhams of India, and is at about 60 km distance from Bhubaneswar, at the Bay of Bengal coast. Every year, thousands of devotees and pilgrims plan to come here and seek the blessings of the deity and get back with good luck and fortune from there. In the month of June and July each year, Rath Yatra is held at Jagannath Dham and it is indeed one of the most popular ones and worth being into. The daily offerings are been made to Lord Jagannath 6 times daily and prasadam is offered to all visitors (only Hindus) as well. The Dham is open from 5 in the morning till midnight. The non Hindus are not allowed to enter the premises of the temple and they could view from the precinct and pay their respects through the main gate to the Lord.

World Famous Sun Temple, Konark – The World famous Sun temple is located at the Eastern end of Odisha in Konark, nearby Puri city, dedicated to Lord Sun or Surya. Also been popular as Black Pagoda, it is constructed way back during 13th century in black granite and red sandstone by King Narasimhadeva belonging to Ganga dynasty. It is listed and acknowledged as a World Heritage Site, depicting the amazing and exceptional artwork of the country’s religious heritage and culture. Built and renowned as one of the finest Brahmin architectures, the temple complex is huge representing massive talent, wealth and spirituality. The temple is a monumental representation of the Sun God’s chariot, amongst which 24 wheels are adorned with beautiful and appealing designs, led further by a team of 6 horses. It is a worth seeing attraction for sure.

Temple City Bhubaneswar – Famously known as the temple city of Odisha, Bhubaneswar is the capital city and is also a significant Hindu pilgrimage centre. Hundreds of temples are already filled in the city, supposed to be constructed way back during 9th or 11th century. Each one of them is depicting the beautiful ancient monumental artwork and history and is a well planned city, emerging speedily as an information and technology hub destination. Amongst the top most and must to visit temples of the city are Lingaraj temple, Rajarani temple, Mukteswara temple, Parasurameswara temple, along with nearby attractions like Nandankanan, Dhauli, Udayagiri and Ratnagiri caves, Shanti Stupa, etc.

Largest Lake Chilika – Chilika Lake is the Asia’s biggest and second world’s largest brackish salt water lagoon, widespread in a big area of about 1100 square km. There are few different islands over here, which are worth checking out to and are magnificent. Visitors can check out a large number of migratory birds flocking down here from so far off places. The lake boasts of having the biggest number of rare and unique Irrawaddy dolphins and there are specific points from where they could be watched. There are boats available at Satapada point and they will take you to view the captivating views of the lake as well as dolphins. The pear shaped lagoon, is divided into four prime ecological sectors including the Central zone, Southern zone, Outer channel and the Northern zone. As per the Zoological survey been conducted over here, over 800 species were found here in both flora and fauna. A perfect gateway to spend some time with loved ones, be an adventure and nature lover and enjoy the natural beauty of the place.

Puri Golden Sea Beach – If you want to check out the beautiful colour play of the light blending within the sky, and a place where water actually meets within the divinity, Puri sea beach is the place to be. The golden coloured sand kissed beach is among one of the safest beaches of the country, and here tourists can enjoy leisure and relaxing bath along with having gala time with loved ones. Puri is among those spiritual and pilgrimage spots in Odisha where travellers can get spiritual salvation along with getting the chance to enjoy the nature beauty and adventure. The beach provides travellers with the harmony and deep relaxation needed to soak in the mystical spell of the city. Along lined the beach, there are some ancient antiquities well known from history, involving the Matha situated nearby the Swargadwar houses, the Baulimatha where renowned Guru Nayak stayed in Puri, during his visit and the Holy Guru Granth Sahib, which is placed next to Lord Jagannath.

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• Picturesque architecture of Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves – These caves are partially natural and manmade, beautifully carved to allure the attention of its visitors. Considered as the landmark of Odisha, Khandagiri is 18 caves complex and Udayagiri is 15 caves complex. Reflecting Buddhist heritage and ancestry, they are astounding sculptures with Brahmi inscriptions on the same.

• Konark Sun Temple – This divine 11th century temple is reckoned worldwide for its intricate carvings and breathtaking architecture. Worth to pay a visit to, the temple is dedicated to Sun God. It boasts of Kalinga architecture as well as is carved with erotic sculptures of Maithunas and other images.

• The soul soothing Chandrabagha beach – It lies at a nearby distance from Konark Sun temple and holds religious importance as well because of the 7 day fair held in the honour of Sun God. Religious people and devotees from all around prefer to come here and take a dip in the water. Aside from this, it is an amazing spot to spend some quality time with loved ones. Also been surrounded with many honeymooners, people love watching sunset and have quality time with one other.

• Blessings of Lord Jagannath – One of the famous four holy Char Dhams, Odisha got much recognition marked by this divine Lord Vishnu temple. The temple needs no description of it at all, and it would be a treat to seek the blessings of the Lord and pay a visit to this place.

• Bird watching at Chilika Lake – The Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, it is spread in a large area of 1100 square kilometre covering Khurda, Puri and Ganjam districts. With an ecosystem supporting giant fishery resource, people come from all over here to check out rare bird spices, dolphins, and get some really picturesque photographs.

• Architecture in Bhubaneswar – Known as the ‘City of the Temples’, it has a rich history dated back to 2000 years. Perfect for all history buffs, the city has some of the amazing intricately carved and architecture temples. The prime attractions of the city cover Rajarani temple, Lingaraja temple, Nandankanan Zoological Park, etc.

Also Read: Top 11 Must-Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries in Odisha for Thrilling Adventurous Experience

• Discover Rural Odisha at Raghurajpur – Raghurajpur is perfect to discover more of rural Odisha, where visitors can check out the beautiful assemblage of artwork, diversity of Oriya culture, lives of locals, artwork like Patta Chitra work, palm leaf inscriptions, paper mache, murals, wood and stone work, wooden toys, cow dung toys, appliqué, filigree, terracotta based work, etc.

• Odia craft at Pipli – Popular for splendid mesh and appliqué artwork, Pipli in Odisha lets tourists glance at the creative side of locals there. If you are there, have a look at the artwork and decoration materials including coloured clothing materials stitched and embroidered with traditional designs, village scenes, animals, flowers and more, handmade wallets, umbrellas, lampshades, wall hangings, bags, pouches, etc.

• Wildlife diversity at Nandankanan Zoological Park – This huge zoological park is the ideal spot to take your kids to. Spread in a large 400 hectare land area, it is located amidst Chandaka forest and Kanjia Lake. Supposed to be a home of more than 166 species of animals, especially White Tigers, which could be rarely seen in others, it is indeed a must visit place for all.

• Chandipur Beach – The beach is well known for its high rising tides varying from 1 to 4 km. Located in Balasore district, this pristine beach is recognized as a perfect picnic destination, and also as a romantic gateway for many.

• Diverse wildlife at Simlipal National Park – Located in Mayurbhanj district, it is a reckoned elephant reserve and also has some of the amazing waterfalls including Joranda and Barehipani.

• Tribal villages to explore the Odisha culture – To know about the real Odisha, do make sure to take a tribal tour here. Few of the well known tribes of Odisha are Didayi, Bonda, Kondhs, Barogadaba, Dongarias, where people can interact with the locals, know how to follow their culture and traditions, and also how they celebrate each tiny moment and turn it into an event.

• A chance to check out Gharials at Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary – Indeed, it is like a paradise for all nature lovers. There is simply nothing striking and spectacular than to go for a boat ride here amongst the rare species of both flora and fauna.

• The time stands still at Ratnagiri – Recognized as a prominent Buddhist monastery, it is indeed a soul soothing spot ideal for doing meditation and enjoying monastic life. Though, the sites here are a bit in ruined state, but it still draws out the spiritual feel and contentment. If you want to be somewhere that is historic as well as serene, do make sure to be at this mesmerising land.

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