Hirakud Dam:

Located around 290 kilometers from the city, Hirakud Dam is built across the mighty Mahanadi River in Sambalpur, Odisha. It is a popular tourist spot in Bhubaneswar as it is the longest man-made dam in the world and one of the earliest river valley projects of India. It was constructed in 1956 to control the devastating floods and droughts in the Mahanadi River Basin. It is a 56km long architectural wonder that irrigates 7,500,000 hectares of land and generates hydroelectricity. Set in a scenic backdrop of Burla and Hirakud Hills, it is surrounded by lush greenery offering visitors a respite from the bustle of the city. For an enthralling experience, you can drive through the 21-kilometer road over the dam and get awe-inspiring views of the verdant surroundings. You can unwind amidst the natural abundance at the Hirakud Dam. You can also enjoy the quaint atmosphere at the nearby Jawahar Udyan Park maintained by The Water Resources Department.

Built during the reign of the Shailodbhava dynasty in 650 A.D., the Parasurameswara temple is a specimen of the evolution of Oriya architecture. It ostentatiously displays the Deul (tower) and Jagmohana (hall) which were the classic features of temple architecture prevalent in Odisha in those times. The small temple is ornately decorated with sculptures of many Hindu gods like Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, animals, and several floral motifs. The mythological scenes carved on the outer walls of the shrine are a testament to its antiquity. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshipped as Parasurameswar.

Rajarani Temple:

Rajarani Temple is an architectural masterpiece from the 11th-century, preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It is a Hindu temple popularly addressed by the locals as the 'love temple' and built towards the end of the Somavasi regime. As there are no images inside the sanctum, the temple is not associated with any particular sect of Hinduism. Historians proclaim the temple was earlier called the Indresvara Temple and was dedicated to Lord Shiva. The carvings on the walls also indicate its association with Shaivism. Historians believe the Rajarani Temple has inspired the architecture of other temples in central India like the Kandariya Mahadev temple of Khajuraho and the Totesvara Mahadeo temple in Kadawa. The temple gets its name from the red and yellow sandstone called Rajarania used in its structure. Apart from the spiritual ecstasy of the temple, you can also spend some quiet time at the well-maintained parks around it. If you’re a classical music lover you can also attend the Rajarani Music Festival organized by the Tourism Department of Odisha in February each year.

Bindu Sarovara or the Bindu Sagar Lake is among the most sacred lakes of Orissa and the largest water body in Bhubaneswar. The lake is 1,300 feet long and 700 feet wide and encompasses a tiny island with several shrines. It is surrounded by several other temples, the main ones being the Lingaraja temple and Anant Vasudeva temple. As per historians, there are 17 water tanks strategically located near temples, and the Ocean Drop Tank or Bindu Sarovara is located near the Lingaraja temple. It has special significance as it is said to contain water from all holy water bodies of India. Legend has it that the lake was created by Lord Shiva to quench the thirst of his wife, Goddess Parvati. The sacramental water of the lake is believed to cure diseases and wash away sins. Visiting Bindu Sarovar is customary for pilgrims visiting the Lingaraja Temple. During the Ashokashtami festival, the main deity from the Lingaraja Temple is bathed in the Bindu Sarovar. The chariot procession is accompanied by enthusiastic devotees and those who wish to catch a glimpse of the deity. The tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of the lake attracts locals and tourists to spend a relaxing day with their family

Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary, Tikarpada:

Located around 140 kilometers from the city, The Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural reserve for several species of wild animals including crocodiles. Sprawling across 795.52 square kilometers around the banks of River Mahanadi including the famous Satkosia gorge, the sanctuary is home to a wide variety of species of animals, birds, and plants. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is the hub of eco-tourism in the state. It offers natural habitat to tigers, leopards, rhesus macaques, gaurs, spotted deer, elephants, four-horned antelopes, sloths, gharial, snakes, turtles, and many others. You can witness the preservation center cum breeding grounds of Gharial especially prepared to facilitate the process by giving them the right atmosphere. In addition to wild animals, you can also spot birds such as the Indian Pitta and Red Jungle Fowl. Frequently visited by animal lovers and nature enthusiasts, the sanctuary gives visitors a chance to explore the unrestricted beauty of the wild. Being the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure junkies, Tikarpada is ranked as the best Family Holiday Destination in the state. You can have an enthralling experience trekking or camping in the sanctuary and enjoy water sports such as fish angling, motor-boat rides, and river rafting.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva as the Lord of spiritual freedom, Mukteswara Temple was built in the 10th century and is among the earliest temples built by the Somavamsi dynasty. Well known for its sculptural excellence it marks the evolution of the Kalinga style of architecture and owing to its beauty it is regarded as the ‘Gem of Odisha’. The temple plays an important role in the study of the historic development of Hindu temples in Odisha and is thus preserved under the Protected Monuments of India. It’s a massive 35 feet high west-facing structure built in sandstone constructed under the aegis of King Yayati I. It contains all elements of Pitha Deula type of Oriya architecture such as a decorative entrance porch (Torana), the sanctum (Vimana), and the leading hall (jagamohana). The beautiful Torana of the temple is one of the most photographed architectural structures of India. Exquisitely sculpted pillars and carved walls of the temple depict scenes from the ancient Panchatantra stories. The temple is home to several shrines and numerous Lingas of Lord Shiva. You can witness the enchanting exteriors carved with motifs and large diamond-shaped lattice windows. Another attraction that drives tourists each year from 14th to 16th January is the Mukteswar Dance Festival organized by the Odisha Tourism Board. It is graced by veterans of Indian classical dance and is a mesmerizing experience to witness the richness of Odisha’s cultural heritage through the dance and celebration at the festival.

Odisha State Tribal Museum:

Located at the CRP Square in Bhubaneswar, the Odisha State Tribal Museum is dedicated to the 62 tribes of Odisha. It was established in 1953 as the Museum of Tribal Arts & Artefacts to represent the cultural richness of indigenous tribes. In 2001 the new building of the museum was inaugurated and it was renamed as Odisha State Tribal Museum and interests tourists seeking an insight into the tribal life in the region. The museum has been developed on the concept of “Museum of Man” and is popularly known as the ‘Tribal Museum’. You can witness replicas of tribal huts, attire, ornaments, weapons, farming equipment, and artifacts collected from different tribal communities of the state. Their way of conducting life including traditions and food habits has been displayed along with details of the evolution of each tribe. In 2010 the museum was recognized by UNESCO as the ‘Best Tribal Museum of India’ in comparison to the 21 other tribal museums in the country. The live craft kiosk gives you a demonstration of the everyday tribal practices. For deeper anthropological research you can spend some time at the well-stocked library on the premises. You can also shop for souvenirs at the shop in the museum.

Located 20 kilometers away from Bhubaneswar, Nandankanan Zoological Park is a zoo set up amidst the forest of Chandaka. Established in 1960 as a bastion of white tigers the zoo was converted into a natural reserve upon the recommendation of National Geographical Magazine. Stretching over an area of 4.37 sq km, the park offers a natural habitat to the rare species of flora and fauna. The reserve is famous as the first zoo in the world which provides a safe breeding ground for Melanistic and White Tigers. Besides the endangered white tigers and crocodiles, the park is also home to a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, and rare species of birds.

Shri Ram Mandir:

A recent addition to the city, Ram Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama situated in Kharavel Nagar, Janpath. The temple houses attractive images of Lord Rama (incarnation of Lord Vishnu), Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshmana. The complex also houses dedicated shrines for Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, and many other deities. Devotees from across the country visit the temple around the year. The eminent architecture of the temple and bright colors add to its beauty. The temple is located in the heart of the city and the high-rising spires on its Shikharas are easily visible from afar. You can seek blessings and celebrate major Hindu festivals like Ram Navami, Vivaha Panchami, Shivratri, Rakshabandhan, Janmashtami, Dussehra, and Pana Sankranti at the temple. You can enjoy delectable Oriya dishes at the street food stalls in the neighborhood.

Ekamra Kanan is a botanical garden situated at Saheed Nagar, Nayapalli. The lush greenery spread over 512 acres attracts nature lovers from across the country. The park has an impressive rose garden, a nursery with a wide variety of flowers, and a serene lake. Since 2006, a ‘State Level Annual Flower Show’ is also organized in January each year, which attracts botanical experts and nature enthusiasts alongside tourists and locals. You can plan a family picnic to spend a day in the lap of nature. The kid's zone has slides, swings, and fun games to keep them occupied while you unwind away from the routine life rush. You can also enjoy a boat ride over the lake.

Chausath Yogini Temple:

One of the four Chausath Yogini Temples in the country, the temple at Hirapur is situated on the bank of Bhargavi River. The only active temple of its kind, it is one of the prominent tourist places to visit in Bhubaneswar. Built-in the 9th century by Queen Hiradevi of the Bhauma dynasty the temple is also known as the Mahamaya Temple. The sandstone temple is circular with a thirty feet diameter and a height of eight feet, making it the smallest Yogini temple of the country. Unlike the prevalent Oriya temple architecture with the linear layout and high rising pyramidal roofs, the Yogini temples were round and had almost no roof.The temple rituals are of tantric nature and in accordance with local rural and tribal traditions. The presiding deity of the temple is Goddess Mahamaya who is adorned in red attire and vermilion.

Located in Berhampur, the Biju Patnaik Park is dedicated to the former chief minister of the state. The park covers an area of about 23 acres including three water bodies. It was formerly known as the ‘Forest Park’ owing to the wide variety of flora and fauna thriving in the area. It has a pristine ambiance which is complimented by jogging tracks, open-air gymnasium, musical fountains, rosarium, and rockeries to keep the visitors engaged. It is a popular getaway among the locals as it has a dedicated play area to keep children occupied. The main sightseeing attraction for tourists visiting the park is the floating mountain and the statue of Late Shri Biju Patnaik unveiled in 2002. The park is mostly crowded during the early morning hours or the late evening hours as the weather is pleasant during these times. Several local clubs like yoga club, laughter therapy club are also operated by regular visitors of the park

Regional Museum of Natural History:

Regional Museum of Natural History was established in 2004 under the aegis of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. It was laid down to impart non-formal environmental education and generate awareness about the conservation of natural resources. Being one of its kind among the museums in Eastern India it boasts of unique and rare natural exhibits. The incredible collection of skeletons of rare and extinct animals attracts paleontologists and researchers from across the world. A wide variety of plants and flowers are also on display which lures nature enthusiasts. The taxidermy section displays preserved animals, butterflies, reptiles, and moths. Among the most attractive exhibits is the rare fossil of an egg of the extinct Elephant Bird and the skeleton of Baleen Whale. A special children’s gallery keeps the little ones engaged through interactive displays.

Deras Dam is the third largest dam in Odisha. It is located 25 kilometers away from Bhubaneswar within the Chandaka National Park. The dam was primarily built as an irrigational project but soon became an eco-tourism spot owing to the beauty of its surroundings. The mesmerizing natural charm of the place attracts tourists and locals alike. It has become a popular picnic spot as the serene atmosphere allows visitors to relax and unravel their stress. The rainwater reservoir and a nearby hilltop cottage offer astounding panoramic views of the verdant surroundings. You can enjoy a 40 kilometer guided safari of the Chandaka elephant sanctuary and even book the hilltop cottage for a night stay.

Nicco Park:

An amusement park perfect for adventure seekers, Nicco Park was built in 1997. It is the most preferred fun spot for locals and tourists. Constructed by BDA in association with Nicco Japan, the park comprises well-manicured gardens and fun rides. There is an artificial lake in the center of the park to add to its beauty. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides in the lake. You can spend a fun filled day with family and kids at the park exploring the various rides and swings at an affordable fee.

Built by Queen Chandrika of the Chodaganga dynasty in the 13th century, the Ananta Vasudev Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is a Vaishnava temple constructed during the reign of King Bhanudeva at a site where Lord Vishnu had been worshipped from the days of yore. It was renovated in the late 17th century by the Marathas. The temple holds special significance for all pilgrims visiting Bhubaneswar. As per legend, Lord Shiva moved into his abode at the Ekamra Kshetra after permission from Lord Vishnu. The tradition is followed by all pilgrims by visiting the Ananta Vasudev Temple before visiting the other temples in the city.

Khandagiri Caves:

Located 7 kilometers away from Bhubaneswar, the Khandagiri Caves are ancient artificial structures from the 2nd century BC. These rock-cut caves were built by King Kharavela of the Meghavahana dynasty. They are decorated with intricate mythological carvings and regal inscriptions and are popularly known as Cuttack Caves. They were discovered in the 19th century AD by an on-duty British Officer named Andrew Sterling. The caves had been carved in two hills of the Kumari mountain range for Jain monks to stay and meditate. One hundred and seventeen caves were built for them but only thirty-three out of them have been able to survive. You can witness Eighteen of them in the Udaygiri hill and the remaining fifteen in the Khandagiri hill. The Udaygiri Caves are managed and maintained by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) and are of interest to archaeologists and history aficionados.

Believed to be one of the most impressive monuments of the state, Sri Jagannath Puri Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Lord of the universe and incarnation of Vishnu). Moreover, this temple holds the utmost religious significance among the Hindus and was constructed by the famous Ananda Verman Chodaganga Dev. Termed as one of the best tourist places in Puri, this richly carved structure is constructed on a high pedestal with four gigantic gates.

Puri Beach:

A silent paradise for nature seekers, Puri Beach is located on the east coast of the Bay of Bengal. Positioned in close proximity to Jagannath Temple and other renowned temples of Puri, this beach near Bhubaneshwar attracts a large number of tourists. The sun-kissed beach is an apt destination to enjoy a perfect vacation with your family and friends. Also, the honeymooners can stroll along the breezy shores and explore the mesmerizing view of sunrise and sunset. This is one of the top tourist spots in Puri and makes your vacation more memorable.

Asia’s largest salt-water lagoon, Chilika Lake is stretched across three districts(Puri, Ganjam, and Khordha in Orissa) and is separated by a narrow neckline from the waters of the Bay of Bengal. Dotted with many small islands of lush green natural beauty, this lake is positioned approximately 50kms from Puri. Enjoy the beauty of the flocks of flying migratory birds during the winter season. Apart from bird watching, this lake is also famous for boating, fishing, and many other things. So don’t miss to explore this spot which is one of the outstanding tourist places in Puri.