East Indian Traveller
A boat safari through one of the largest mangroove system in the country with giant Salt Water Crocodiles lining the shore is what summarizes a typical tour of Bhitarkanika. A sanctuary for the crocodiles, this National park, is both beautiful and wild, making the whole trip an unforgettable experience.
The Odisha Maritime Museum, is a repurposed colonial structure, that during the British rule acted as a maritime workshop for inland water communication of the Bengal Presidency (state of Bengal, Odisha and Bihar). Built in 1867, this building now houses, more than 10 galleries showcasing the rich maritime history of the state.
When we think of beaches in Odisha, our minds takes us automatically to Puri, the beach town that hosts the famous Puri Jagannath Temple. Odisha however boats of a large coastline, and hence although the popular, Puri definitely is not the only beach town in the state.
Situated 73 kms away from Bhubaneswar, Gopalpur is one such place which for a very long time remained shrouded in mystery, serving only the fishermen community. However, quite recently it burst into the tourism scene of the State, and from then has been on the bucket list of every beach bum.
Darigbadi is undoubtedly the coldest place of Odisha, so much so that whether there was Snowfall in Daringbadi or not has lately become the parameter of deciding if the winter was strong enough. In my eyes however, the raw natural beauty of the place is what makes it a must visit for everyone.
Perched atop 3000 ft, this quite hill station of the eastern ghats, is blessed with thick rain forest, coffee garden and green valleys all around. Even the roads are as scenic as they can get. Meandering through a think cover of green, with hills and valeys playing hide and seek with every passing kilometre, one can only praise the person who coined the term Kashmir of Odisha, to describe this gem.
Smrutivana (Smrutivan), in Bhubaneswar was originally intended to be a memorial garden, where people could plant saplings in memory of their departed family members. Over time however, the place has metamorphosised into a beautifully landscaped park, arguably the best walking trail in Bhubaneswar.
Set amidst a serene natural surrounding, the Taptapani Panthanivas is a state run guesthouse, that was supposed to serve as a night halt during my southern Odisha explorations.
It however turned out to be a destination in itself, surrounded by hills and forrest, devoid of any human settlements nearby. Easy on the budget, providing for ample privacy, this humble property is in fact a resort, masquerading as a guesthouse.
A 12th century temple perched atop a 2239 ft hill, provides for a perfect weekend gateaway, taking one close to both god and nature. The drive through the winding serpentine roads, hike through a forest and enchanting wood work makes the destination a crowning glory for Dhenkanal, Odisha
An island inside a mighty river holds a 12th century temple, that has made a mark for itself in both the pilgrimage and tourist landscape of the state of Odisha. Crossing the river on either boat or a pedestrian bridge, makes you realize the river is not just a water body but a living entity in itself.
Ansupa Lake is technically part of Cuttack, however people of Bhubaneswar consider it as their own. Ansupa Lake and its periphery also serves as one of the most sought after Picnic Spots of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack twin city. Ansupa Nature Camp is also being developed around the area which will add to the flair of […]
East Indian Traveller