One of the most prominent cultural hubs in india! People know Odisha as a state of one of the Char Dhams- Puri but not much of it is considerably explored. The city of Bhubaneswar alone has a count of upto 800 spiritual buildings. A unique architecture called the Kalinga  is unique to the region and bestows distinctive curvilinear shapes and decorative delicate stone carvings. With that being said, we offer you the best offbeat exploratives of Odisha-the historical architectural hub-

1. Raghurajpur village

A total heritage and arts and crafts village that’s known for its extremely acclaimed “PATTACHITRA PAINTINGS” and Gotipua dance form (the original precursor to the famous Indian classical dance form of Odissi).  These are some of the evergreen classical stuff which trace back to their origin in this village. Apart from this 5th century art form, they also indulge in handicrafts , masks,stone idols and paper maches. Every art at this place carries a vibe of mythological dedication which every artist puts in it.

2. Paradeep Beach

Two rivers meeting always looks magnificent and such is the case here.Located in the congruence of the river Mahanadi and the Bay of Bengal, this beach is an untimely display of blue waters where ta;; green forests stand guard and this makes a perfect spot for a walk along the beach is truly refreshing and also makes for a good photography spot because of its almost no crowd atmosphere! 

3. Chandragiri

Making its name for its beautiful landscapes, Chandragiri is truly cupped in the hands of nature-surrounded on all sides by forest, lake and rivers this place emits an aura of a natural connection. With that ,  it also is famous for the earliest Tibetan settlements in India. You could visit some surprises here like the Hot spring in Taptapani and the Buddhist monastery – Jeerango. This place surely isn’t limited to one country’s culture.

4. Satkosia Tiger Reserve

This underrated gem of  preservation doesn’t make its name into many lists and surely needs to be given a shot at exploration. Dating back from 1976 this sanctuary is pristinely located alongside the magnificent Mahanadi river and has a rough charm spread around it ! With astonishingly rich species of fauna found here, there surely is a captivating experience to be felt here. With lush greenery around and being located beside a breathtaking gorge, this sanctuary is home to beautiful animals like the Tigers, gharials , giant squirrels and Sambar Deer.

5. GopalPur

As rural as it sounds do not judge this place by the name. A small yet a wondrous seashore which is famous for the Gopalpur beach festival is one of the best offbeat places in the state. This place is for the party lovers. With calm breezy waters and numerous water sports this could be your rejuvenation spot. Do not forget to try out the Wind Surfing, Scuba Diving, Paddle Boat and Rowing and make your water day a happy day! 

6.  Daringbadi

Pretty sure that a state like odisha doesn’t exactly portray a cool breezy image when one thinks about it. But yes- as surprising it would be, the state of Odisha has a very pleasant and a beautiful little hill station. Perched in a cool aura of 3000 feet. This hill town is for the offbeat hill station trips that everyone needs to step in. With the lush greenery and a massive scope of tribal tourism, this place is worth a shot. Spot some Dogria Khonds and watch some cascades descending in the Doluri river, Putudi Waterfalls and Ludu Waterfalls.

7. Ratnagiri

Ratnagiri (meaning “hill of jewels”) is the site of a ruined mahavihara, once the major Buddhist monastery in modern Odisha, India. It is located on a hill in between the Brahmani and Birupa rivers. With an abundance of culture and nature this one is for the historical buff.There are several Stupas and monasteries that have been excavated and restored in Ratnagiri and completing the historical exploration triangle for a more vivid travel, you must also visit Lalitgiri and Udaygiri. The trio form the triangle of Buddhist history in Orissa.

8. Rushikulya 

If you’re the one among animal lovers, this place is sure to please you and your lens.The waters around Rushikulya Beach turn into turtle territory from December to April as over 600,000 olive ridley turtles migrate from Sri Lanka to mate and nest. Olive ridley turtles are the smallest species of turtles and amongst the hardest to find due to their endangered status.Not only can you see these endangered turtles, but you can see them during three of their most important life cycles at the least-visited tourist places of Orissa.

9. Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary

This is one of the best kept secrets of tourist places in Orissa. In winter, the Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary plays host to more than six millions feathered creatures of 150 unique species including 40 occupant species. Some originate from to the extent Russia, Mongolia and Iran. The salty waters of Lake Chilika and the sky above transform into a music of feathered animals of colours and curiosity! Some of the rarest beauties to spot here are the great peregrine falcon, bluethroat, grey-headed lapwings, ruddy shelducks, whiskered terns, the Baillon’s crakes, slaty-breasted rails and the greater painted snipes.