India Travel Guide

Places to Visit In India

Category : Orissa

Uttaranchal_ Trekking

GANGOTRI  TREK

Gangotri, at a height of 3,140 metres, is accessible by road from Rishikesh but many prefer to trek the route. The trek takes 14 days and passes through important towns like Uttarkashi, Gangnani and Lanka.

KHATLING – SASHRATAL – MASARTAL TREK

From Rishikesh, trekkers can also attempt the Khatling – Sashratal – Masartal trek which takes seven days and passes through thick forests and lush green meadows.

PINDARI TREK

It is one of the most easily accessible of all Himalayan glaciers, nearly three kilometres long and a quarter kilometre broad. The Pindari glacier lies some 278 km from the railway station at Kathgodam. The trek to Pindari takes five days and passes through pine forests, wild flowers, undulating meadows and gurgling brooks. The famed temple-town of Bageshwar stands aloof on the banks of the Gomti and Saryu rivers.

GARHWAL

Dr T. Longstaff, renowed mountaineer, naturalist and trekker, has described Garhwal as the most beautiful land in the mountains of the Asian sub-continent. Garhwal with its beautiful mountain ranges and dance forests has immense opportunity for adventure. Trekking option is Garhwal are unlimited. They are not bound by any season. Hard, medium or soft treks can be tried at any time of the year.

PENCH-KEDAR TREK

Altitude : High

Season : Summer

Period : 15 Days

Trekking Route: Rishikesh–Pipalkoti–Kalpeshwar–Nail–Anyusa Devi–Rudranath– Chopta–Tungnath–Gaundhar–Madmaheshwar–Guptkashi – Kedarnath–Rudraprayag–Rishikesh.

VASUKITAL TREK

Altitude : High

Season : Summer

Period : 6 Days

Trekking Route: Rishikesh–Gaurikund–Kedarnath–Vasukital–Gaurikund–Rishikesh.

DODITAL – YAMUNOTRI TREK

Altitude : High

Season : Summer

Period : 9 Days

Trekking Route: Rishikesh–Uttarkashi–Agora–Dodital–Seema–Hanumanchatti– Yamunotri–Barkot–Rishikesh.

KALINDI KHAL TREK

Altitude : High

Season : Summer

Period : Month’s of July to August

Trekking Route: Gangotri–Bhojwasa–Nandavan–Basukitalapathar–Kalindibase–Rajparav–Ghastoli–Badrinath.

KHATLING – SAHASTRA TAL TREK

Altitude : High

Season : Summer

Period : August to September 14 Days

Trekking Route: Rishikesh–Uttarkashi–Silla–Kushkalyani–Kyarki–Parital–Sahastra Tal–Tadiuddyar–Kalyani–Kharsoli–Chowki–Khatling–Gangi–Ghuttu –Rishikesh.

HAR – KI – DUN TREK

Altitude : High

Season : Summer

Period : July to August 8 Days

Trekking Route: Rishikesh–Sankri–Taluka–Osla–Har Ki Dum–Osla–Sankri–Rishikesh.

ROOPKUND TREK

Altitude : High

Season : Summer

Period : July to August 10 Days.

Trekking Route: Rishikesh–Mundoli–Wan–Bedni–Bugyal–Bhaguwasa–Roopkund – Homekund–Sutol–Ghat.

BUDHAKEDAR–PANWALI–KEDARNATH TREK

Altitude : High

Season : Summer

Period : 12 Days

Trekking  Route: Rishikesh–Uttarkashi–Belak–Budhakedar–Bhaironghati–Ghuttu– Panwali Kantha–Triyuginarayan–Gaurikund–Kedarnath– Rishikesh.

Simlipal Wildlife Sanctuary

Simlipal National Park

Simlipal National Park

The important tree species of the region are the Sal, Bija, Terminalias, Champa, Kadam, Mesua, with varieties of Orchids and fascinating Ferns, Mosses and Lichens. The Similipal National Park is also the abode of varieties of faunas viz. Tiger, Leopard, Wolf, Hyena, Elephant, Bison, Sambar, Deer, Cheetal, Percupine, Pangolin, Wild Boar, Hornbill, Phthon, King Cobra and many more.






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Bhitarkanika

Bhitarkanika sanctuary

Bhitarkanika sanctuary

Mangroves cover the major parts of the sanctuary. This holds the richest mangrove vegetation in India with 3 species of Avicennia, 3 species of Khizophora etc. In total there are 55 species of mangrove flourishing in Bhitarknika, out of 58 species so far recorded in India. The coastal sand dunes are covered by Casuriana plantations. Reptiles are the prominent species. The salt-water crocodile is the top predator. The sanctuary holds the largest crocodiles up to 22 feet long. The coastal sand serves as the nesting ground of millions of Olive Ridley sea turtles which stay from the month of November to April, in ever year .The other common reptiles are 3 species of monitor lizards including Salvator, King Cobra, Python branded   Krates and Water snakes. Other animals include Panther, Fishing Cut, Hyena, Percupine, Wild Pigs, Sambar, and Chital Rehsus monkey. Large numbers of migratory birds including maximum number of bar headed geese settle in the lands and mud flats for watering.

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    Konark Temple

    Konark Temple

    Konark Temple

    This crowning piece of Orissan architecture and sculpture, built in the 13th century A.D. The golden era of Orissan art is poetry in stone and a world heritage monument. The walls of these magnificent ruins have exquisite sculptures covering many aspects of life. Scenes of love and war, trade and court transactions, hunting, catching of elephants, teaching of sages, amorous dalliances, dancers and mythical figures-all vie for attention on the panels and niches of this immortal work of art. Surasundaris, heavenly damsels, freestanding, larger-than-life monoblock female statues playing the cymbals, drums, flutes, adorn the top of the temple. Beautifully carved couples engaged in myriad modes of amorous union, with their incomparable charm, are also attractions for the visitors. Every day the Sun God rises from the lap of the blue ocean close by and casts His first gentle rays on the sanctum sanctorum and then circles the temple during the course of the day, illuminating the three magnificent images of the morning Sun, the Mid-day Sun and the Setting Sun. The 24 giant wheels of this temple-chariot symbolizing the divisions of time with there intricate carvings on the spokes and the axle heads, the seven caparisoned horses representation seven colours of the Sun, the Navagraha or Nine planet panel are living pieces of the glory of Orissa’s past. Konark is a many splendour gem of Orissan art. Its beauty is not for description words. It is to be seen, enjoyed and savored, not once but again and again for it is truly a thing of beauty, a joy forever. Today UNESCO as a world heritage site protects the temple.

    Tourist Attraction:

    Konark Beach: Only 32 km from Puri on Marine Drive, one could find a sprawling beach at Konark-rated as one of the finest in the world. With a long stretch of clean sands-cool blue sea making rapid in rolling waves-the beach clams to be one of the best in the eastern coast for having a lovely serenity of its own.

    Chandrabhaga Beach: A short walk, ride or drive from Konark, takes one to the beach known as Chandrabhaga, unspoiled by time and men. Quieter than Puri beach, it offers beautiful sunrise and sunset.

    Excursion:

    Ramachandi: Ramachandi is situated 8 km away from Konark. Temple of Goddess Ramachandi on the confluence of river Kushabhadra with the sea and also a nice picnic spot is located here.

    Kapaleswar: Kapaleswar is situated 10 km from Konark. Here is a Shiva shrine on desolate sand dunes.

    Kurum: Kurum is situated 8 km from Konark. It is excavated Buddhist site.

    Kakatapur: Kakatapur is situated 25 km away from Konark. Shrine of Goddess Mangala are situated on river Prachi.

    Chourasi: Chourasi is situated 35 km from Konark. Temple of Goddess Barahi, which is a typical order of temple architecture, is located here.

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    Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary

    Ushakothi Sanctuary

    Ushakothi Sanctuary

    One of Orissa’s smaller sanctuaries, it still offers visitors a perfect opportunity to see elephants, tigers, panthers, sambars from the watch-towers placed strategically near the watering holes or board a jeep. About 45 km from Sambalpur, the nearest forest rest house is at Badrama (3 km away).

    Nandankanan Zoo

    Nandankanana Zoo

    Nandankanana Zoo

    A short distance from the capital city, Bhubaneshwar, the Nandankanan zoo lies in the splendid environs of the Chandaka forest along the rippling waters of the Kanjila Lake. It contains a botanical garden and part of it has been declared a sanctuary. Famed for its white tiger population, Nandankanan, or the garden of gods, has become a hot family favourite, with visitors getting an excellent opportunity to enjoy seeing this regal animals in their natural glory in and environment conducive to their growth. Over 67 kinds of mammal, 18 varieties of reptiles and 81 species of birds co-exist in the deeply forested boundaries. The zoo enjoys an  excellent reputation, International, for successfully breeding Black Panthers, Gharial Crocodile and White Tigers in captivity. The White Tiger safari established in 1991 offers visitors the heavy excitement of viewing the rare White Tiger from specially deigned protected buses. The Lion safari offers an adventurous zing to the trip to Nandankanan. Apart from the fabulous Elephants, Cheetal, Sambar and numerous other animals roam about doing their daily business unhampered.

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    Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

    Lakhari Valley Sanctuary

    Lakhari Valley Sanctuary

    Lakhari valley wildlife sanctuary located in Ganjam, it has a huge concentration of elephants and other wildlife. Blackbucks abound in the Bhetnai Region.










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    Kolab

    Kolab River

    Kolab River

    Only 15 km from Kolabpur, the river Kolab makes a spectacular jump at Bagra to form a reservoir called the ‘Upper Kolab Irrigation Project’. An ideal place for outing, it is also a panacea for city dwellers.

    Gopalpur

    Gopalpur Sea Beach

    Gopalpur Sea Beach

    Hardly 16 km from Berhampur, the hub of southern Orissa, is the tiny town of Gopalpur on the Bay of Bengal. Enjoying the reputation of being a popular Beach Resort of Orissa, the deep and clear blue waters instantly provoke those who are good swimmers. The temptation of bathing here is irresistible. Not-so-good swimmers take the hands of the Nolias (local fishermen who help bathers) and enjoy a pleasant bath. White surf splashing on the golden sand makes the Gopalpur-On-Sea as one of the finest beaches on the eastern coast. A fascinating haunt for avid beach combers and sea worshippers, it is a splendid retreat. Watching the life on the beach is also exciting. The fishermen pulling their catch or mending their nests add local colour. Beautiful objects made of seashell available in abundance are worth buying souvenirs for decorating a Drawing Room or giving some one a Present. Sands sculptures here and there made by some local artist are a feast to the eyes. Mouth-watering seafood, especially fish from the deep sea, satisfies the hungry stomach. Green coconuts quench the thirst. Intense heat of the summer is temperate by the sea breeze in the fantastic quietness. Of the beach amidst palm, coconut and casuarina trees. A trip to Gopalpur-On-Sea is a rewarding experience of sun and sea, fun and frolick.

    Tourist Attraction:

    Berhampur: Berhampur is situated 16 km from Gopalpur. Berhampur is an ideal market for shopping. The market displays Orissan handicrafts and handloom products. Prominent among them are silk sarees and horn toys.

    Mahuri Kalua: Mahuri Kalua is situated 30 km from Gopalpur. Enroute to Taptapani, Mahuri Kalua is another scenic spot. There is a shrine of Goddess Kalua in the deep greenery of nature.

    Patisonapur: Patisonapur is situated 30 km from Gopalpur, 20 km from Berhampur and 4 km off the National Highway No. 5 that connects Kolkata with Chennai the virgin beach of Patisonapur is one of the most exquisite on the east coast. Quiet and secluded, this is a wide and clean beach across the river Bahuda. On the confluence of river Bahuda and Bay of Bengal, the scenic beauty of the area is simply enchanting.

    Taratarini: Taratarini is situated 30 km from Gopalpur. On the bank of the river Rushikulya near the village Purushottampur, the shrine of the twin Goddess Tara and Tarini adorns the hilltop amidst natural beauty. There is a flight of about one thousand steps as well as a pakka motorable road from the foothill to the hilltop.

    Jaugada: Jaugada is situated 35 km from Gopalpur and 5 km from Taratarini, famous for the Ashokan rock inscription like the one found in Dhauli near Bhubaneshwar. Large number of old bricks, tiles, potteries, beads, terracotta objects and punch mark coins of Mauryan Age are found in the Suburbans. There is also a ruined fort.

    Rambha: Rambha is situated 45 km from Gopalpur. On the scrawling Chilika Lake, Rambha is famous for its scenic beauty and bird sanctuary. Covering an area of about 1,000 sq. km, lakhs of residence and migratory birds of different hue make Chilika their home during winter. Boating in the lake is enjoyable in all seasons. There is also the Shakti shrine of Kalijai for a pilgrimage. Rambha is on the southern end of the Pear shaped lake amidst calm and serene environs.

    Taptapani: Taptapani is situated 65 km from Gopalpur. A pleasant health resort with a hot sulphur spring having medicinal property. The water of the spring is channelised to bathtub of the Panthanivas for steam bath. Even during other season the scenic beauty of the place is amazing. During rainy season, clouds roam around the foliage.

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    Pradhanpat

    Pradhanpat Water Falls

    Pradhanpat Water Falls

    The Pradhanpat hill with its picturesque waterfalls offers a rare scenic beauty. These falls are close to Deogarh, the district headquarters town that is attractively situated with the background of wooded hills. Deogarh is 96 km from Sambalpur on National Highway No. 6.







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    Kichakeswari

    Kichakeswari Temple

    Kichakeswari Temple

    Built entirely of chlorite slabs, the temple of Kichakeswari Temple at Khiching, 115 km from Keonjhar, is one of the few temples of its kind in India. Close by, there is a plethora of temples-some abandoned while some others still living which bear to the master masons Kalinga style-420 km from Bhubaneshwar and 150 km from Baripada.







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    Deulajhari

    Deulajhari

    Deulajhari

    Situated amidst a bowl of green near Athamallik, 90 km from Angul, Deulajhari is famous for the presence of a hot spring. The hot spring seems to flow from the bottom of a Shiva Lingam. The water is naturally channelised to 36 ponds on the outskirts of the Shiva Temple.

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      Yogini

      64 Yogini Temple

      64 Yogini Temple

      On the outskirts of Bhubaneshwar is Hirapur village with it Hypaethral Temple of 64 Yoginis. One among the two such distinguish temple in Orissa and four such in India it has beautiful Yogini images-a great study for the connoisseurs of art and architecture.

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      Phurli Jharan Falls

      Phurli Jharan Falls

      Phurli Jharan Falls

      15 km from Bhawanipatna, a perennial waterfall of 16 mts. high, has a special charm of its own. The multicolored rainbows created by the sunrays falling on the scattered water particles of the falls are an amusing site to be seen.








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      Khanduala Falls

      Khanduwala Falls

      Khanduwala Falls

      The jungles of Karlapat wildlife sanctuary, situated around 32 km from Bhawanipatna, provide the setting for another of Orissa’s charming waterfalls name as ‘Khanduala’. It is so named because of the shrine of the Goddess Khanduala situated on the top of the hill.

      Dandadhar

      About 65 km from Dhenkanal and 30 km from Kamakshanagar, Dandadhar is the site of an irrigation project on the river Ramial an ideal place for outing. Blue expanse of sparkling water caged in lush green forest is a thrill to the searching eyes.

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      Vaital

      Vaital Temple

      Vaital Temple

      An example of Khakara School of architecture, an offshoot of the Kalinga School is quite different, even though it maintains the Deul and Jagamohan structure. Only here the Deul is rectangular. Its external surface embellished like other temple. In this 8th century, one gets the fast evidence of erotic sculpture in Orissan art.

      Pataleswar

      Budhikomna in Nawapara district, 150 km Bhawanipatna houses the famous temple of Pataleswar, made entirely brick in Trirath style. The architectural design is quite interesting to art-lovers and general visitors alike.

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      Khandagiri & Udayagiri

      Udayagiri Khandagiri Caves

      Udayagiri Khandagiri Caves

      Huge residential block for the Jain Monk where carved out of the rocks of Khandagiri and Udayagiri in the first century B.C. in the city of Bhubaneswar. This caves were also an excellent canvas for the detailing of various achievement of King Kharavela’s reign. There are about 18 rock-hewn apartments at Udayagiri along, with the Hati Gumpha or Elephant cave, bearing the well-known inscription of the Kings. The Ganesha Gumpa is well worth a visit. Khandagiri has also about 15 caves.



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        Cuttack

        Barabati Fort

        Barabati Fort

        One of the oldest cities in Orissa. This city is situated in the middle of two rivers – Mahanadi in the North and South is Kathajodi. The stone embankment protecting the riverbanks speaks eloquently of the engineering skills of the 11th century. There is Barabati Fort for those who are fascinated by history. The Ganga Dynasty on the bank of the Mahanadi built it. Nearby is the shrine of katak Chandi, the presiding deity of the city. In Cuttack there is Paramahansanath Temple of Shiva is famous for its water hole, which floods the sanctum sanctorum on holy occasions. In the center of the city is Aadam-I-Rasool. It has two other beautiful mosques and a music gallery. For those who are interested about shopping the Cuttack is the best place in the whole Delhi, Hyderabad and Chennai. Cuttack is 29 km from Bhubaneshwar by road and the National Highway No. 5 passes through the city.

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