Best 7 Picnic Spots In Odisha For Christmas and New Year !

Best 7 Picnic Spots In Odisha For Christmas and New Year !

This is that time of the year which provides just the perfect surroundings to plan trips with friends and family. Odisha offers many picnic destinations, some of which are quite popular and some which have not been much in the limelight. Here we bring you certain not so familiar destinations which can become the perfect spot for you to go and have a time to cherish.

1) Barehipani and Joranda Falls, Mayurbhanj

Distance from Bhubaneswar – 253 kms

The Similipal National Park is home to hundreds of tigers and has always been known due to their existence. Moreover in the heart of this noted sanctuary are located the Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls which are highly famous for their majestic beauty. If lucky, one can also hear the roar of the tigers while experiencing the gorgeous milky falls. These two falls are really nature’s priceless gift to humanity and make up for a breathtaking sight to behold!

2) Harishankar Temple, Balangir

Distance from Bhubaneswar –156 kms

This beautiful temple is situated on the slopes of the Gandhamardhan hills and is the abode of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. A spectacular stream flows through the slopes and adds to the loveliness of the entire area. Right opposite to it is another temple with Nrusinghanath as its residing deity. The place also has a statue of dancing Lord Ganesha which dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can even halt at the deer park situated nearby the temple. All in all, this place is a mixture of religion, history and nature at its very best.

3) Khandadhar, Kendujhar

Distance from Bhubaneswar – 249 kms

Originating from the Korapani Nala, this is the 12th highest waterfall of India and offers a rare scenic beauty. Even the lush green vegetation all around this waterfall looks captivating and presents a serene view to the visitors. Another waterfall with the same name is placed on the opposite side of the hill, which gives a smoky feel while gushing down the mountains. This smoke-like appearance gives a very mystic look to the place and adds to the astonishment of the onlookers even more!

4) Chudanga Gada Fort, Baranga

Distance from Bhubaneswar – 14 kms

This fort is also a place of excavation and is declared as a protected site by the Archaeological Survey of India. Built in the 12th century AD, the fort has many water bodies in its premises which makes the place all the more enchanting. There are other add-on attractions to this particular site, since it is surrounded by the Chandaka forest and houses Nandankanan Zoological Park in its vicinity!

5) Deulajhari, Angul

Distance from Bhubaneswar – 173 kms

This place is unique due to the presence of hot springs and its location amidst breathtaking jasmine forests. As per the ancient records, there are a total of 84 springs out here, of which 24 are alive. And more interestingly, the hot water gets collected into 36 man made ponds which circumscribe a Shiva Temple. No wonder it’s such an interesting place for those looking for an ideal picnic spot!

6) Mahavinayak Temple, Jajpur

Distance from Bhubaneswar – 68kms

Considered a major Shaivapitha, this place is known for the temple of Lord Ganesh. It is the only temple where Shiva, Vishnu, Durga, Sun and Ganesh are worshipped together inside the same sanctorum. The Eastern Ghat Mountain range can be majestically seen bordering the area. It comprises of 7 hills and looks like a sleeping elephant. With such religious uniqueness and majestic views all around, one should not miss a chance to visit this place.

7) Hukitola, Kendrapara

Distance from Bhubaneswar – 101 kms

If you happen to plan a trip with your friends, Hukitola near Kendrapara happens to be an Ideal choice. Reaching the spot you would be mesmerized sighting at the sprawling 150 years old heritage building believed to be used as a dungeon and a granary during the British era.

You can calm your senses by sightseeing the areas around the building and soak in the tranquil environment and the gurgling sound of water lashing against the boundaries. The only way to reach this spot is by boat and local people follow the tidal waves to make the journey to and from this place. A place definitely worth a visit.