Do you believe that summer getaways are always better? If the answer is yes, then you must experience a memorable summer in Odisha. There are numerous places to visit in Odisha during the summer where you can enjoy a soothing holiday experience. Whether you are looking for a hill station full of cooler mountains or want to delve into the lush greenery of national parks, Odisha has something for everyone. It's a paradise full of highlands, sea beaches, lakes, and waterfalls, making your summer more relaxing and refreshing. So, if you want a soul-soothing experience away from the daily humdrum, then you must visit Odisha, which is rich with hidden jewels.

Top Places to Visit in Odisha during Summer: Enjoy Memorable Summer Vibes

Top Places to Visit in Odisha during Summer

Odisha is a beautiful Indian state with a rich culture and heritage. It's a must-visit destination because of its alluring beaches, serene temples, and biosphere reserves. Especially if you have visited Odisha during the summer season, you can get a chance to explore some of the hidden gems that you should have discovered before. There are various places to visit in Odisha during summer that will let you discover the beauty of summer. Also, the hill stations here are away from the urban lifestyle, ensuring a calm and soothing experience. Below, we have listed some of the places in Odisha you must discover during the summer for an unforgettable vacation.

  1. Shree Jagannatha Temple
  2. Nandankanan Zoological Park
  3. Mahendragiri Hills
  4. Mukteshwara Temple
  5. Chilika Lake
  6. Daringbadi
  7. Similipal National Park
  8. Ramchandi Beach

1. Shree Jagannatha Temple: Embrace the Sacred Serenity

Shree Jagannatha Temple

If you are a spiritual person seeking solace in the divine sanctuary, then you must visit Shree Jagannatha Temple in Odisha. It is one of the best places to visit in summer in Odisha. The temple is located in the sacred town of Puri and was built in the 11th century by King Indradyumna. This is a glorious shrine and is the best place to find harmony amidst the chaos of existence. The splendid Oriya architecture with four gates is beautifully designed with intricate carvings. Here, a huge celebration of religious festivals takes place with great pomp and excitement.

Location: Bali Sahi, Puri, Odisha 752001

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Top attractions: Annual Rath Yatra or chariot festival, beautiful architecture, serene atmosphere

Best places to stay: Hotel Jagannath Darshan, Chanduka Palace, Sea View Residency, The Pearl

Best nearby restaurants: Laxmi Marwari Bhojnalaya, Kiran Family Restaurant, Oh Bengal Restaurant, Chung Wah Chinese Restaurant

Best shopping markets: Shree Jagannath Market Complex, Puri Beach Market, SEA Beach Market, Smart Bazaar

2. Nandankanan Zoological Park: Discover Amazing Wildlife

Nandankanan Zoological Park

Nandankanan Zoological Park is located 20 kilometers ahead of the capital city Bhubaneswar and is the place with largest collection of white tigers in India. It is the first zoo in the world to breed white tigers and Melanistic tigers, making it one of the best places to visit in Odisha especially during summertime. Here you can discover unique flora and fauna flourishing in their most natural habitat. Also, the enthralling facilities like boating, white tiger and lion safaris, ariel ropeway and cable car ride will give you several unforgettable memories. It's a heaven for all the nature lovers out there who want to explore mother nature.

Location: Nandankanan Rd, Near Police Station, Barang, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 754005

Opening hours:

  • Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Monday: Closed

Top attractions: Unique flora and fauna, boating, white tiger and lion safaris, ariel ropeway and cable car ride

Best places to stay: Hotel Lal Qila, Hello Stay Hotel Bhubaneswar, Chandaka Nature Resort, Ekamra Greens by Y Hotels

Best nearby restaurants: Hotel Jay Mahaveer, Hotel Jagannath, Red Leaf Restaurant, Vishwa Aahar, Malva Restaurant

Best shopping markets: Nandankanan Souvenirs Shop, Chandralok Market Complex, Market Complex, Kolkata Market

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3. Mahendragiri Hills: Inhale the Fresh Scent

Mahendragiri Hills

Mahendragiri is known for its unparalleled glory and lush green jungles. It is 5000 feet high and located in the Eastern Ghats of Odisha state. The beautiful hilltop with its dense forest and wildlife is one of the best hill stations in Odisha. The mountain’s lush green oasis has been celebrated for its natural beauty. It's the second-highest mountain peak in Odisha, famous for its stunning, and scenic sights. Also, it has several hiking routes around the hills giving you numerous opportunities to explore the serene nature. Here, you can enjoy several other activities like trekking, rock climbing, cycling, and bird watching.

Location: Eastern Ghats of Odisha

Top Attractions: Lush green jungles, scenic sights, hiking routes

Best places to stay: Starling Forest Resorts, Taptapani Spring Resort, Hotel Padma Manor Luxe

Suggested Read: Attractions in Darjeeling: Breathe in the Fresh Mountain Air

4. Mukteshwara Temple: Immerse in the Beauty of Divine Grace

Mukteshwara Temple

Discover the harmony between humans and the divine at the famous Mukteshvara Temple in Odisha. It's a 10th century Hindu temple located in Bhubaneshwar and is a prominent tourist attraction in the city. Because of its beautiful architecture, this temple is also known as the “Gem of Odisha Architecture” or “Kalinga Architecture”. It is one of the best places to visit in Odisha in summer season that you must explore. So, get ready to capture the essence of timeless grace and find solace in the embrace of sacred silence.

Location: 6RVR+35P, Old Town, Kedar Gouri Vihar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751019

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Top attractions: Beautiful architecture, serene atmosphere, exquisite sculpture work and intricate carvings.

Best places to stay: Hotel Pushpak, Portune Park Sishmo, Airavat, Hotel Kalinga Ashoka

Best nearby restaurants: Let’s Go Banaras, Hotel Namaste Restaurant, Disha Snacks, Sarojini Restaurant

Best shopping markets: Sukhdev Plaza, Ashram Chowk, Maneswar Market, Nac Shopping Complex

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5. Chilika Lake: Stay Close to the Serenity

Chilika Lake

Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lagoon and is situated on the east-coast of India. Here you can find a number of islands including Krushnaprasad, Nalaban, Somolo, Kalijai and Birds Islands. This lake is favorably known for its dynamic sunrise and sunset views. It's popular for birdwatching, boating, fishing and dolphin sighting, making it one of the best places to visit in summer in Odisha. This destination is admired a lot by the tourists because of its breathtaking views, serene atmosphere and migratory birds. So, if you are planning a summer trip away from the daily humdrum then you must visit this amazing destination.

Location: Chilika, Satapada, Khordha District, Puri 752001, India

Top attractions: Serene views, birdwatching, boating, fishing and dolphin sighting

Best places to stay: OTDC Panthanivas, Eco-Cottage Chilika Island Resort, Swosti Chilika Resort

Best nearby restaurants: Orana Restaurant, Swosti Sunrise Island, Chilika Green Family Restaurant

Best shopping markets: Chilika Market, Subhasri Gokhyada, Sunamuhin Market

Suggested Read: Places To Travel In India To Rejuvenate Your Senses

6. Daringbadi: Rejuvenate Your Soul

Daringbadi

Daringbadi, in Odisha, is a serene hill station situated in the Kandhamal district. It's famous for its pleasant environment all year round, hilly terrain, lush greenery, and gorgeous valleys. Also, it is one of the best honeymoon places in Odisha, offering an eclectic mix of nature and culture. Its rich culture, wonderful location, and abundant nature offer the most exhilarating ways to travel. This hill station lies peacefully at an elevation of 3000 feet above sea level and is also known as the “Kashmir of Odisha.” Its natural beauty makes it the most tranquil place.

Location: Kandhamal District, Odisha

Top attractions: Hilly terrain, lush greenery, gorgeous valleys

Best places to stay: Hotel Snow View Daringbadi, Deers Eco Home Resort, Daringbadi Nature Retreat, Utopia Resort, The Turmeric Hotel, Nature Valley Eco Resort

Best nearby restaurants: Hotel Hill Top Restaurant, Glass Garden Restaurant, Hotel Padmalaya, Dazzling Restaurant

Best shopping markets: Market Complex, Laxmi Bazaar, Chari Chowk, Sibamandir Chowk

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7. Similipal National Park: Discover the Beauty of Nature

Similipal National Park

Similipal National Park is located in the northern part of Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district and is a haven for 99 tigers and 432 elephants. It is one of the most beautiful places in Odisha to visit in summer, famous for its breathtaking views and amazing wildlife. If you are a traveling enthusiast who has been waiting to explore wildlife, then this is the ultimate destination for you. The magical aura of this national park, with the plethora of plant species found here, will give you some memorable experiences. You can also enjoy an enthralling jeep safari experience and an energetic trek around the sanctuary.

Location: Dist, Bhanjpur, Baripada, Odisha 757002

Top attractions: Lush greenery, amazing wildlife, jeep safari

Best places to stay: Similipal Khairi Resort, Lulung Aranya Nivas, Sitakund Forest Resort

Best nearby restaurants: Annapurna Restaurant, Momomia Love in Every bite

Best shopping markets: Basipitha Main Market, Murgabadi Morning Market, Laxmiposi Weekly Market

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8. Ramchandi Beach: Find Peace by the Shore

Ramchandi Beach

Ramchandi Beach in Odisha is one of the most beautiful beaches in Odisha. The tranquil atmosphere of this picturesque beach is ideal for a peaceful vacation away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Also, if you want to try some mouthwatering foods in Odisha then you can visit the nearby restaurants offering Odisha delicacies. The silver sand and serene ambiance of this unexplored beach is a perfect option for those of you who are planning for a summer vacation. So, pack your bags and get ready for a delightful experience on this beautiful beach of Odisha.

Location: Situated on the Junction of River Kusabhadra and Bay of Bengal

Top attractions: Tranquil atmosphere, silver sand, water sports

Best places to stay: Lotus Eco Resort Konark, Kings Coco Resort, The Pearl, Hotel Surya Inn

Best nearby restaurants: WildDunes Restaurant, Hotel Chandrabhaga and Restaurant, Nature Camp Restaurant Konark Retreat

Best shopping markets: Konark Urban Marketplace, Kanha Murti Center, Model Beach More, Barsha DTP Centre, Style Bazaar

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This is a great opportunity for all the travel enthusiasts looking to spend a tranquil summer vacation. Explore numerous places to visit in Odisha during summer and enjoy a rejuvenating holiday. Embark on a refreshing retreat and unveil the cool side of Odisha. The rich biodiversity and scenic beauty here will give you an amazing experience. Take advantage of the Odisha tour packages and discover the vibrant cultural history, stunning architectural details, beautiful misty waterfalls offering a stunning getaway.

FAQs

Q1. Which place is best for summer vacation in Odisha?

There are numerous places where you can go for summer vacation in Odisha. Some of those places are mentioned below:

  • Shree Jagannatha Temple
  • Ramchandi Beach
  • Chilika Lake
Q2. Which is the coldest place in Odisha in summer?

Some of the famous places in Odisha which are cooler in summer are Mahendragiri, Daringbadi and Chilika Lake. These places are also known for lush greenery, and serene views and are perfect for an amazing holiday during summer.

Q3. Which hill district is in Odisha?

There are numerous hill districts located in Odisha including Daringbadi, Mahendragiri, Taptapani, Dhenkanal, Dumuriput Hills, Olasuni Hill, and Deuli Hills. These breathtaking hill stations will give you a cool and calming atmosphere.

Q4. Where are the Mahendragiri Hills located in Odisha?

Mahendragiri Hills are located in Rayagada block of the district of Gajapati, Odisha. It is situated amongst the Eastern Ghats and famous for its unparalleled glory and lush green jungle. It is the second-highest mountain peak in Odisha.

Q5. What are the top attractions of the Similipal National Park?

The Similipal National Park is famous for its breathtaking views and amazing wildlife. It's an ultimate destination where you can enjoy an enthralling jeep safari and an energetic trek around the sanctuary.

Q6. What are some of the best things to do in Odisha?

One can enjoy numerous exciting activities in Odisha including shopping for exotic souvenirs, exploring amazing wildlife, relaxing on serene beaches, discovering rich culture and spending some good time at breathtaking hill stations.

Q7. Which souvenirs can we buy from Odisha?

Odisha is known for its amazing handicrafts made by locals. One can buy these beautiful handicrafts which include bangles, baskets, stone sculptures, palm leave paintings, Pipili work, painted coconuts, Konark Wheel, and wooden masks.

Q8. Why should one visit Daringbadi in Odisha?

Daringbadi is a serene hill station in Odisha and is famous for its pleasant environment all year round, hilly terrain, lush greenery, and gorgeous valleys. It's a perfect place for a vacation away from the daily humdrum.