Odisha at a Glance

Khordha

The Cradle of Odisha's Heritage
Discover the Heritage

About the Destination

Khordha is a fascinating blend of history, spirituality, nature, and adventure. Once the seat of the last independent rulers of Odisha, the district is renowned for its glorious past, picturesque hills, tranquil lakes, and thriving wildlife. Home to the magnificent Chilika Lake - the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia, Khordha also offers ancient temples and eco-tourism. Whether you are spotting Irrawaddy dolphins, trekking through forested hills, or exploring historic landmarks, Khordha promises an unforgettable journey.

Quick Information

Region

East

District

Khordha

Best Time

October to March

Duration

2 Days

Airport

Nearest Airport(s): Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar – 27 km

Railway

Nearest Railway Station(s): Khordha Road Junction

Must Visit

Top Attractions

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Chilika Lake

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Lingaraj Temple

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Dhauli Shanti Stupa (Dhauli Hills)

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Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves

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Mukteswara Temple

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Nandankanan Zoological Park

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Mangalajodi

Things to Do

Activities

Cruise across Chilika Lake and spot the Irrawaddy dolphins

Trek through the scenic Barunei Hills

Experience world-class birdwatching at Mangalajodi

Core

Experiences

Experience a wildlife safari in Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary

Witness breathtaking sunsets over Chilika Lake

Discover the legacy of the Paika Rebellion

Celebrations

Events & Festivals

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the region through its spectacular festivals.

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National Chilika Bird Festival

Bird festival

Jan 01 - Jan 31 , 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM

Chilika Lake, Mangalajodi, Khordha

Set along the scenic Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, this festival celebrates Odisha’s rich avian diversity. Bringing together birdwatchers, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts, the festival highlights the ecological significance of Chilika while offering immersive birding experiences, especially around Nalabana and Mangalajodi.
Why You Should Attend
  • Spot migratory and resident birds in one of India’s top birding destinations
  • Participate in guided birding trails and nature walks
  • Engage with experts, photographers, and conservationists
  • It’s the only time of the year, that Nalabana Bird Sanctuary set deep inside Chilika, throws its gates open for Birders and Photographers.
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Mukteswar Dance Festival

Odissi dance festival

Jan 23 - Jan 25 , 06:30 PM - 09:00 PM

Mukteswar Temple premises, Bhubaneswar

Held in the precincts of the 10th-century Mukteswar Temple in Bhubaneswar, this festival is an intimate celebration of Odissi dance and classical artistry. The temple’s intricate stone carvings provide a stunning backdrop as some of the finest Odissi doyens of the country perform under the open sky. Known for its elegance and purity, the Mukteswar Dance Festival is a refined cultural experience that highlights the spiritual essence of Odissi.
Why You Should Attend
  • Watch Odissi performances in an iconic temple setting.
  • Experience a close, immersive classical dance environment.
  • See performances by leading and emerging Odissi Dancers.
  • Enjoy the architectural beauty of Mukteswar Temple illuminated at night.
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Rajarani Music Festival

Music festival

Jan 16 - Jan 18 , 06:30 PM - 09:00 PM

Rajarani Temple premises, Bhubaneswar

Set amidst the historic Rajarani Temple, this festival celebrates the depth and diversity of Indian classical music. Over three evenings, the temple complex resonates with Hindustani and Carnatic renditions performed by eminent musicians. The festival’s serene ambience and architectural elegance make it a unique musical experience in an open-air heritage setting.
Why You Should Attend
  • Enjoy live classical music in a heritage temple setting
  • Listen to renowned vocalists and instrumentalists
  • Experience both Hindustani and Carnatic traditions
  • Spend evenings in a peaceful, culturally rich atmosphere
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Dhauli Kalinga Mahotsav

Classical dance festival

Feb 06 - Feb 08 , 06:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Shanti Vihar, Foothills of Dhauli

Set against the serene backdrop of the Dhauli Shanti Stupa, the Dhauli Kalinga Mahotsav is a unique confluence of martial arts, classical dance, and spiritual reflection. Held annually at the historic site associated with the Kalinga War and Emperor Ashoka’s transformation, the festival celebrates peace through performance. Renowned artists present choreographies inspired by themes of war, valour, and harmony, blending traditional dance forms with martial traditions like Kalaripayattu and Chhau.
Why You Should Attend
  • Experience a rare fusion of martial arts and classical dance.
  • Attend performances at the historic Dhauli hills, symbol of peace.
  • Watch curated productions themed on war, transformation, and harmony.
  • Witness participation from acclaimed national and international artists.
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Toshali Craft Mela

Handicrafts & handloom fair

Jan 01 - Feb 28 , 02:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Janata Maidan. Bhubaneswar

Every winter, Bhubaneswar’s Janata Maidan transforms into a vibrant marketplace of India’s finest craftsmanship at the Toshali National Crafts Mela. Bringing together artisans, weavers, and designers from across the country, the fair is a celebration of handlooms, handicrafts, and traditional artistry, set against a lively backdrop of folk performances and Odissi music. Since its inception in 2004–05, Toshali has evolved into one of eastern India’s most prominent craft fairs, offering visitors a rare opportunity to interact directly with master craftsmen, explore diverse regional traditions, and take home authentic handmade creations.
Why You Should Attend
  • Explore over 300 stalls featuring crafts from across India and SAARC nations.
  • Witness live folk and tribal performances every evening.
  • Shop authentic Odisha crafts like silver filigree, handlooms, and tribal jewellery.
  • Enjoy a festive ambience with food courts and cultural showcases.
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Adivasi Mela

Tribal exhibition

Jan 01 - Feb 28 , 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM

Adivasi Mela Ground , Unit - 1, Bhubaneswar

Adivasi Mela in Bhubaneswar is a remarkable cultural showcase that brings together the rich and diverse tribal heritage of Odisha under one roof. Organised annually by the ST & SC Development Department, the fair recreates a vibrant tribal village at the Adivasi Exhibition Ground, offering deep insights into the lives, traditions, and artistic expressions of the state’s 62 tribal communities. With its origins dating back to 1951, the mela continues to serve as a vital platform for preserving and promoting indigenous culture.
Why You Should Attend
  • Experience an immersive tribal village with life-size house replicas.
  • Shop authentic tribal crafts including Dhokra, terracotta, and wooden artefacts.
  • Witness vibrant tribal dance and music performances every evening.
  • Explore exhibitions on tribal lifestyle, culture, and development initiatives.
Gastronomy

Local Food & Cuisine

Indulge in authentic local culinary delights that reflect the rich heritage of the land.

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Chilika Seafood Delicacies

Fresh crab, prawns, and fish from Chilika, celebrated for their rich flavour and freshness.

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Pakhala, Dalma & Santula

Traditional Odia staples featuring fermented rice, wholesome lentil-vegetable curry, and lightly spiced mixed vegetables.

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Authentic Odia Home-Style Cuisine

Freshly prepared local meals showcasing seasonal ingredients and time-honoured culinary traditions.

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Chhena Poda & Traditional Sweets

Signature desserts including Chhena Poda, Rasagola, Chhena Jhili, Arisa Pitha, Kakara Pitha, Mathapuli, Balushahi, Malpua, Chhena Gaja, and other classic Odia sweets.

Journey

How to Reach

Khordha enjoys excellent connectivity through National Highway 16 and the East Coast Railway network. Khordha Road Junction is one of Odisha's major railway hubs, while Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, is just a short drive away.

Air

The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, offering excellent connectivity.

Rail

Well-connected to major Indian rail networks with regular express and passenger services.

Road

Easily accessible via well-maintained national and state highways with regular bus and cab services.

Stay

Accommodation

From luxury escapes to cozy heritage homestays, find the perfect place to rest.

Khordha enjoys excellent connectivity through National Highway 16 and the East Coast Railway network. Khordha Road Junction is one of Odisha's major railway hubs, while Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, is just a short drive away.

Ready for the ultimate journey?

Discover Khordha—where Chilika, history, wildlife, and nature create lasting memories.

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