5 must-visit tourist places in Odisha
A state located in eastern India, Odisha is popular for its ancient temples, stunning forts, sun-kissed beaches, and captivating tribal culture. It is a vibrant and culturally-rich state that is also a heaven for food lovers, thanks to authentic Odia cuisine. While there are many tourist places in Odisha, many places are yet to be explored. Here are five such places worth a visit.
Potagada Fort
If you are an architecture and history lover, then you must visit the Potagada Fort in Odisha's Ganjam district, which is an archaeological wonder. The construction of the fort began in 1768 under the order of Ganjam's first resident named, Edward Costford. Spread over a vast area, the star-shaped fort houses three different residential buildings designed separately by French, British, and Muslim rulers.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Bargarh district of Odisha, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is an unexplored place in Odisha that is a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers. You can enjoy a fun jungle safari tour here, where you can spot wild animals like leopards, bears, bison, sambar deer, wild boars, etc. There are also waterfalls along the hillsides of the sanctuary that add to its beauty.
Chandragiri (Jiranga)
Located in Gajapati district, Chandragiri is also known as the Mini Tibet of Odisha, as the place has been populated by thousands of Tibetan people since 1959. The place is a hidden gem with stunning mountain slopes, dense forests, and gushing rivers. When here, you must visit the Padmasambhava Mahavihara Monastery and also buy some authentic hand-made Tibetan woolen clothes from the nearby markets.
Khandadhar Waterfall
Khandadhar Waterfall is the perfect place to spend quality time together with your family, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The waterfall is located in Odisha's Sundargarh district and is the 12th-highest waterfall in India. Falling from a height of 244 meters, the magnificent waterfall is shaped like a sword and has a backdrop of the lush green picturesque forest.
Gonasika Temple
Situated in Odisha's Keonjhar district, Gonasika Temple is an unexplored place in the state that is a must-visit for tourists who want to seek spiritual blessings. The temple is dedicated to Brahmeswar Mahadev, and according to legends, it is the place from where the Baitarani River originated. The place also houses many old tribes like Gondias and Bondas, which makes it more fascinating.
