Fabulous Picnic Spots in Odisha for a Astonishing Short Trip

A unique zoo set inside a forest, Nandankanan Zoological Park was established in 1960. It is a fascinating sanctuary built to ensure that the flora and fauna thrive in a protected region in their natural habitat. It is the first zoo in the world to have successfully bred Melanistic and White Tigers.

Also known as Cuttack caves, Khandagiri Caves are artificial caves located in the state of Orissa which date back to 2nd century. This place is quite a sight to see with all the beautifully carved inscriptions and figures. This place holds a great historical significance. A large number of ancient temples with intricate carvings surround this place which have their own significance. If you want to relax and spend some quiet time amidst nature, a number of lush green parks are also located around Khandagiri Caves.

You are in for a surprise if you thought that the state of Odisha was only famous for its beaches and temples. A hill station replete with pine trees, coffee gardens and splendid valleys lies peacefully at an elevation of 3000 feet waiting to be explored. Daringbadi often referred to as the “Kashmir of Odisha” is a perfect place to spend some time away from the hustle-bustle of the cosmopolitan world in quaint cottages amidst trees and valleys.

The 175-metre high single fall cascade of Duduma waterfall tears through the rugged rocks of the Eastern Ghats and the dark green deciduous forest that is so widespread in this region. It creates an exhilarating scene amidst the rustic greenery right along the border of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. It is not the conventional tourist spot one usually visits when in Odisha but the beauty of the coastal state does not end with sea beaches and temples.

The Barbati Fort in Cuttack in Oddisa is a well known fort with carved gateway. It is about 8km away from the city. It is a 14th century fort build during the Ganga dynasty. The fort is situated on the river Mahanadi. The fort is situated at such a calculated place that it provides a beautiful and spectacular view of the modern Cuttack city. It is the earthen mound of the 9 storeyed palace. The monument was built with fortification to protect from enemy attacks. In present days a nearby Barbati stadium is build for cultural and various sports events. There is also a temple dedicated to Katak Chandi. The fort brings charm to the city and depicts its glorious history.

Situated 3 kms east of Sun Temple in Konark in Orissa where the Chandrabhaga River joins the sea, Chandrabhaga Beach is one of the most beautiful and pollution free beaches of the country. Owing to its immaculately clean shores and crystal clear waters, the beach has been awarded with the Blue Flag Certification by the Foundation of Environmental Education (FEE)- which is a tag given to environmental friendly beaches which meet their stringent standards. Lined with tall trees and vast expanse of golden sands, the beach holds cultural and historical importance as well. Several cultural festivals and religious fairs are held here frequently which attract a lot of pilgrims and devotees to the beach.

Chilika Lake is the largest internal salt water lake in Asia, it is a paradise on earth for bird watchers and nature lovers. The pear-shaped lake is dotted with a few small islands and has fisheries and salt pans around its shore. The Chilika Lake also houses the most accommodating ecosystems in the world, which means that a wide assortment of flora and fauna can be spotted here. The lake offers a flamboyant display of a myriad of avian charms in all diverse hues and colours, ranging from the white-bellied sea eagles to flamingos, and from golden plovers to sandpiper

Puri Beach is one of the finest coastlines in East India, bordering the Bay of Bengal and is located at a distance of 35 km from the Sun Temple. With the sun gleaming on the pristine waters of the beach, the place is ideal for holiday makers looking for some solitude. It is often flocked by devotees visiting the beach for a purification dip who come to Puri to pay their homage to Lord Jagannath. The beach is also renowned for the sand sculptures made by internationally known sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik. The sculptures are usually inspired by the art covering the temple walls or other mythological character or episode.

Located in Baleswar district of Odisha and at a distance of 10 Km from Digha, the Talasari beach is pristine, serene and has been bestowed with a spectacular panorama. There are secret beaches, beaches which are beyond the reach of contamination, beaches that refresh our senses and Talasari is one such place. This virgin beach has sand dunes, calmer waves amid several palm trees, coconut trees, cashew trees known to be the last beach on the north eastern coast of India.

Best Time: October to December, February

1 Talasari Beach Attractions

Located on the east coast of the Bay of Bengal, the Gopalpur Beach is a luxurious beach located in Odisha. It is popular for being one of the few sites in India where Olive Ridley Turtles nest. Flanked with coconut and casuarina groves and is a perfect outing for a languorous weekend. The beach, also known as 'Gopalpur-on-Sea' has a calm and soothing coast. It is famous for hosting the annual Gopalpur Beach Festival and offers up the possibility of experiencing a number of aqua sports.

The Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary spreads across 795.52 square kilometres and does not fail to enthral its visitors with its overwhelming beauty, lush green surrounding, the ever cherished rambling of River Mahanadi besides the very famous Satkosia gorge and a large variety of species of wild animals, birds and plants. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is a habitat of tigers, leopards, gaurs, simbal, spotted deers, four-horned antelopes, sloths, gharial and many others.

Best Time: October to March

Situated 3 kms east of Sun Temple in Konark in Orissa where the Chandrabhaga River joins the sea, Chandrabhaga Beach is one of the most beautiful and pollution free beaches of the country. Owing to its immaculately clean shores and crystal clear waters, the beach has been awarded with the Blue Flag Certification by the Foundation of Environmental Education (FEE)- which is a tag given to environmental friendly beaches which meet their stringent standards. Lined with tall trees and vast expanse of golden sands, the beach holds cultural and historical importance as well. Several cultural festivals and religious fairs are held here frequently which attract a lot of pilgrims and devotees to the beach.

Located at a distance of 120 km from Cuttack in Odisha, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary is one of a kind sanctuary that sprawls over 650 sq. kms and boasts of rich marine vegetation, salt tolerant varieties of trees and plants, rivers and creeks. Home to some of the rarest species in the world both flora and fauna, the sanctuary is mainly known for its species of reptiles especially crocodiles, however, it also attracts a plethora of migrant species like Olive Ridley Sea Turtles, Asian Open Bill, Black Ibis, Egrets, and Darters etc. In the winter (which is the ideal migrating season for avifauna species), you can find as many as 215 species of migratory birds.

Chandipur Beach is a phenomenal beach that glorifies the beauty of the state of Orissa, 'phenomenal' being the keyword. Would you believe it if you were told that the beach is not a continuously existing feature on the map? That the sea disappears during the day? Well, as unbelievable as it sounds, it is actually true! They call it the "Hide and Seek sea", and rightly so! Watching the sea disappear and miraculously reappear as it plays with you is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the miracles of nature.

The Lord Shiva temple beautifully hidden amidst caves shrine set atop a huge limestone hill, known to be Gupteshwar, is located on the banks of Kolab River. Nearby people from Madhya Pradesh throngs the hillside to worship the deity. The prime anniversary, Shivratri is celebrated by the locals at Gupteshwar.

This is yet another picnic spot and a famous waterfall of the region. The water falls from three different waterfalls, descending from a height of 30 ft. in the River Kolaban and is adored for the beauty of the landscape.

About 35 km from Gopalpur, is located Ramha which provides a great entry point into the famous Chilika Lake. The place is covered in great greenery and also has a bird sanctuary. Boating at the lake during winters is an amazing experience which results in some great sightseeing especially the sunset on the Lake.

Putudi Waterfalls is a scenic picnic spot of nature in its simplest form. 15 km from the city of Phulbani, the area is accessible through motorcars but be aware of the road condition, which is not well-paved. The waters of Salunki creates a picturesque moment to spend time with your loved ones. Being a non-commercialized place, there aren’t many joints for a choice of meal.

At a height of 399 metres, the Barehipani Falls is a two-tiered fall and one of the highest in the country. The waters of the Budhabalanga River atop the Meghasuni Mountains of the Eastern Ghats falls in two drops and creates a  majestic view in the surrounding area devoid of much vegetation. Together with the Joranda Fall, the Barehipani forms a major tourist attraction in Simlipal National Park.

Located amidst rocky terrains, the Gudguda Waterfalls provides a quick getaway for adventure seekers. The waterfall has seven tiers which makes it all the more wonderful to trek to. Remember to pack your swimsuit to take a dip in the chilly waters, if you are visiting in the summer. Due to low commutability, it is advised to get your own vehicle and travel in a group for there might be wild animals around

The Brunei Hill is among much-enjoyed picnic spots of Odisha, with the temple of Goddess Barunei situated atop the hill at a height of 150 ft. Apart from the temple, there are many caves nearby which make the place quite picturesque. It is claimed that Lord Rama had resided there during his exile, which perks up an interest in the history of the place. Enjoy your Sunday picnic with your family overlooking the scenic beauty at its height.

Badaghagara Waterfall: The Machha Kandana river plunges from a height of 100 metres to create this little perennial waterfall. Surrounded by a lush green forest enriched with flora and fauna, this picnic spot is your ideal destination for some time away with family. Going in a private vehicle is recommended as public transportation is not a viable option there.