Top 20 Places To Visit In Odisha During Winter
Winter in Odisha (November to February) is the best time to explore the state’s beaches, hill stations, wildlife parks, heritage sites, and birding hotspots. The weather becomes cool and comfortable, making it perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and photography. This comprehensive guide covers the top 20 winter destinations in Odisha — from Puri beaches to Daringbadi hills, from Chilika's migratory birds to Bhitarkanika’s mangroves.
📌 Table of Contents
- Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit Odisha
- How to Plan Your Winter Trip
- Top 20 Winter Destinations in Odisha
- Practical Travel Tips
- Suggested Winter Itineraries
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Why Winter Is The Best Time To Visit Odisha
✔ Comfortable Weather
With temperatures between 12°C and 28°C, sightseeing becomes pleasant. No humidity, no heatwaves - perfect for beaches and wildlife safaris.
✔ Migratory Birds Arrive
Chilika, Nalabana and Mangalajodi become global birding hotspots as lakhs of birds migrate from Siberia, Mongolia and the Caspian region.
✔ Festivals & Cultural Events
Konark Dance Festival, Puri Beach Festival and tribal fairs make winter culturally vibrant.
How To Plan Your Winter Trip To Odisha
Best Time
November to February — ideal for all regions (coastal, hills, and forests).
How to Reach
- Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar.
- Rail: Bhubaneswar, Puri, Cuttack, Berhampur, Sambalpur.
- Road: Well-connected highways across the state.
Getting Around
Hire a car, use taxi services, or take local buses/shared jeeps for interior destinations.
Top 20 Places To Visit In Odisha During Winter
1. Puri – The Spiritual Beach Town
Perfect winter climate, golden beaches and the iconic Jagannath Temple make Puri a top choice.
2. Konark – Sun Temple & Chandrabhaga Beach
The UNESCO Sun Temple looks stunning in the winter light. The beach is ideal for sunrises.
3. Chilika Lake & Nalabana – Birdwatcher's Paradise
Asia’s largest brackish lake turns into a haven for flamingos, pintails, gadwalls and hundreds of species.
4. Mangalajodi – The Bird Village
A community-run wetland famous for eco-friendly boat rides among tens of thousands of birds.
5. Bhitarkanika National Park
Home to saltwater crocodiles, mangrove forests and winter migratory birds; best explored by boat safari.
6. Simlipal National Park
A tiger reserve where winter safaris offer sightings of elephants, deer, waterfalls and dense forests.
7. Daringbadi – The Kashmir of Odisha
A cool hill station with pine forests, coffee gardens and near-zero temperatures in December–January.
8. Hirakud Dam & Sambalpur
India’s longest earthen dam offers breathtaking winter sunsets and birding opportunities.
9. Raghurajpur Heritage Village
Famous for Pattachitra art, winter workshops and craft demonstrations.
10. Gopalpur-on-Sea
A peaceful beach town, perfect for quiet winter retreats and sea walks.
11. Chandipur Beach – The Vanishing Sea
The sea recedes up to 5 km during low tide — best experienced in winter.
12. Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves
Ideal winter spot for exploring ancient Jain rock-cut caves.
13. Nandankanan Zoological Park
Enjoy the white tigers, botanical gardens and the night safari in cool weather.
14. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Perfect for cycling, safaris, and lakeside eco-stays during winter months.
15. Satkosia Tiger Reserve
Located along the Mahanadi gorge, winter is the best time for boating and eco-camping.
16. Koraput & Putsil Valley
Tribal culture, coffee plantations and cold mountain weather make Koraput a winter favorite.
17. Taptapani Hot Springs
Warm sulphur springs surrounded by forests — perfect in cold mornings.
18. Atri Hot Springs
Another natural hot water spring ideal for winter relaxation.
19. Cuttack – Silver City
Explore Barabati Fort, maritime museum, Dhabaleswar Temple and winter street food.
20. Khandadhar Waterfall
A majestic 800+ ft waterfall, best for chilly winter treks and photography.
Practical Winter Travel Tips for Odisha
- Carry light woolens; heavy jackets only for Daringbadi and Koraput.
- Book safaris in advance (Simlipal, Bhitarkanika, Satkosia).
- Best birding time: early morning (6 AM – 9 AM).
- Carry binoculars for Chilika, Nalabana and Mangalajodi.
- Respect wildlife — avoid plastics in sanctuaries.
Suggested Winter Itineraries
7-Day Winter Itinerary
- Day 1–2: Bhubaneswar → Puri
- Day 3: Konark & Chandrabhaga
- Day 4–5: Chilika (Satpada/Mangalajodi)
- Day 6: Raghurajpur
- Day 7: Bhubaneswar caves + local markets
10-Day Adventure & Wildlife Itinerary
- Day 1–2: Bhubaneswar
- Day 3–4: Simlipal Safari
- Day 5–6: Bhitarkanika
- Day 7–8: Daringbadi
- Day 9–10: Gopalpur + Hot Springs
Conclusion
Odisha’s winter season transforms the state into a diverse travel paradise — from cool hill stations and coastal sunsets to bird-filled lagoons and ancient temples. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, beach lover, cultural explorer or adventure traveler, the top 20 winter destinations listed here offer something memorable for everyone. Plan ahead, pack smart and get ready to experience Odisha at its finest.
FAQs – Top 20 Places to Visit in Odisha During Winter
1. What is the best month to visit Odisha?
December and January offer the best weather for beaches, hills, and wildlife.
2. Is Bhitarkanika open in winter?
Yes, winter is the best time for crocodile spotting and birdwatching.
3. Does Daringbadi get snowfall?
No snowfall, but temperatures can drop close to 0°C.
4. Where can I see migratory birds?
Chilika Lake, Nalabana Sanctuary, and Mangalajodi are top winter birding hotspots.
5. Are Odisha beaches safe in winter?
Yes, the sea is calmer and the weather is pleasant for walking and sightseeing.
