Bhubaneswar: On World Tourism Day, we turn our attention to the lesser-known treasures of Odisha—places where history, faith, architecture, and living traditions quietly come together. Beyond the celebrated temples and popular tourist destinations lies another Odisha, shaped by ancient kingdoms, sacred landscapes, forgotten monuments, and centuries-old religious traditions. From secluded temples and historic ruins to sacred sites nestled amid forests, rivers, and rural landscapes, these destinations offer a glimpse into the state’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
- Baba Girishwar Temple & Khuludi Falls: Located near Khuludi village, the site is approximately 20 km from Pallahara and around 92–120 km from Angul town. The area is home to an ancient shrine devoted to Lord Shiva, known as Baba Giriswar. The shrine attracts a large number of devotees, particularly during festivals such as Maha Shivaratri and Kartik Purnima. The Khuludi Waterfall drops from a height of about 10–12 feet and is surrounded by dense, green vegetation. The gentle flow of water allows visitors to stand beneath the waterfall and enjoy the experience. The location is a popular destination for group picnics and leisure activities.
- Sendhagram (Sarang): This village is 28km from Angul. It has a huge natural sand stone art of Lord Vishnu in a sleeping position, which is the second largest idol of Lord Vishnu in India. It is believed to have been constructed around 8th -9th Century AD. This masterpiece by an unknown craftsman lies in open air along the banks of Brahmani River.
- Scotlandpur is a small and historically interesting village, about 6km from the Talcher area of Angul district, Odisha. The village is particularly known for its unusual name and connection with Scotland. According to reports, the name is associated with Pramod Chandra Deb, a member of the Talcher royal family, who developed an admiration for Scotland after visiting the country and subsequently gave his homeland the name Scotlandpur. The village and its surroundings are also noted for their greenery and historical associations, including the Scotlandpur palace situated at Kishoripal, The Scotlandpur Palace is an important reminder of the area’s princely past. Other tourist attractions nearby are Rani Park, Talcher’s royal heritage and the Brahmani River. The region is also known for the Hingula shrine.
- Kechala: It is located in Koraput district of Odisha. It is a place of historical, religious, cultural, and scenic significance. Pandi Picnic Spot is located at Kechala, about 10 km from the Waterway Pond ferry point near Koraput town. Situated near Kechala Dam, Pandi Picnic Spot is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a scenic setting for recreation and picnics. Kechala also holds considerable historical and religious importance. A copper plate inscription reveals that the area was granted to Narasingha Mishra by the then Maharaja Krishna Dev on the occasion of the solar eclipse in 1620. The presence of Jain relics in the region highlights the significant impact of Jainism during the medieval period. A 30-foot-high Jain temple, featuring images of Tirthankaras identified as Rishabhanatha, Mahavira, Ambika Devi, Jakhya, and Jakhyani, indicates that Kechala was once a prominent centre of Jainism.
- Kakatpur: It is a prominent pilgrimage centre known for the shrine of Goddess Mangala on the banks of the Prachi River. The present temple dates to the 15th century, while the deity dates to the 9th century. Goddess Mangala is depicted in Lalit asana on a double lotus pedestal, surrounded by Parswa Devatas. The shrine is closely associated with the Navakalebar ritual of Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath, as she is believed to guide the search for the sacred logs used to carve the idols. The Jhamu Yatra, featuring firewalking and held in April, attracts thousands of visitors.
- Kuruma: It is a small village near Konark, is known for its excavated Buddhist site. Archaeological discoveries include an image of Buddha Dev in Bhumi Sparsa Mudra, an image of Heruka, and a 17-metre ancient brick wall. Preserved by the ASI, the site is important for historical research and offers insights into Odisha’s Buddhist heritage.
- Satyabadi: It is also known as Sakhigopal, is an important pilgrimage centre famous for the shrine of Sakhigopal, or “witness Gopal.” It is believed that a pilgrimage to Puri is incomplete without visiting this temple. The shrine houses idols of Sri Krishna and Sri Radha and is surrounded by Brahmin settlements. The temple is 60 feet high, with the idols of Shri Krishna and Shri Radha measuring 5 feet and 4 feet respectively. The Anla Navami festival, during which devotees witness Radha Pada, is the most important celebration.
- Brahmagiri: It is the famous for the shrine of Mahaprabhu Shri Allarnath. During Jagannath’s Anabasara, from Snana Purnima to Sri Gundicha, thousands of devotees visit the temple for darshan. The shrine is therefore an important destination associated with Jagannath traditions and pilgrimage tourism.
- Chaurasi: It is known for the ancient temple of Goddess Varahi, depicted with a boar’s face and holding a fish and a cup. Dating to the 9th century, the deity is worshipped according to tantric rites. The site also houses shrines dedicated to Laxminarayan and Nilamadhab. Nearby Amareswar, known for its Shiva shrine, further enhances the area’s religious significance.
- Biswanatha Hill: Rising 500 feet above sea level, Biswanatha Hill is associated with Mahaprabhu Shri Shiva and is valued for both religious significance and scenic beauty. According to legend, a Ganga dynasty king discovered the deity and built the temple. The site attracts visitors throughout the year, particularly during Maha Shivaratri, Raja, and Biswanath Mahayagyan. Its natural surroundings also make it a popular destination for winter picnickers.
- Baliharachandi: It is an 8th-century shrine situated near the sea on sand dunes. Its religious importance, combined with its natural coastal surroundings, makes it an attractive scenic and picnic destination.
- Jahaniapira: It is home to the shrine of Pir Mukudan Jahania Jahangast, a Muslim saint who arrived in Odisha in the 16th century. Worshipped by both Hindus and Muslims, the shrine represents communal harmony. Nearby Astarang Beach is known for its colourful sunsets, considered among the best in Odisha.
- Baral Balunkeswar: It is a Shiva shrine associated with the period of Rama’s exile and is also known as “Guptakasi.” Legends connect the site with the ashram of Bhrigu Muni, adding to its religious and historical significance.
- Suando: It is the birthplace of Pandit Utkal Mani Gopabandhu Dash (1877–1928), revered as the Jewel of Utkal. Today, Suando stands as a significant heritage destination associated with Odisha’s renaissance and the legacy of education, social service, sacrifice, and devotion to the people.