Things To Do
in Khurda
Khurda is a town located in the eastern state of Odisha in India. It is known for its historical significance as it was once the capital of the Khurda Kingdom. The town is home to several temples, such as the famous Barunei and Chausathi Jogini temples, which attract pilgrims and tourists alike.
Khurda is also a thriving industrial center with a mix of traditional and modern industries contributing to its economy.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the ancient Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves. These caves are rich in history and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
Head to the local market to sample delicious Odia cuisine, including Dahi Pakhala and Rasakhala. After lunch, visit the Khurda Fort, which is an important historical site.
Enjoy a peaceful evening at the scenic Chilika Lake. It’s perfect for bird watching and taking a boat ride while watching the sunset.
Start your morning by visiting the lush greenery of Nandankanan Zoological Park. It’s an ideal spot to learn about wildlife and enjoy a peaceful walk.
Visit the local handicrafts village to see artisans at work. You can purchase beautiful traditional crafts for souvenirs.
Experience a cultural performance at the nearby Bhubaneswar. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Odia traditions.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with numerous temples and historical sites.
- Strategic location as a gateway to various tourist destinations in Odisha.
- Emerging educational hub with several universities and colleges.
- Growing economy with a focus on agriculture and small-scale industries.
- Pleasant climate, particularly during the winter months.
- Limited infrastructure development in certain areas.
- Occasional issues with traffic congestion.
- Healthcare facilities may be inadequate compared to larger cities.
- Employment opportunities can be limited, particularly for specialized professions.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods and cyclones.
Best Activities in Khurda
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A popular zoological park with a wide variety of animal species and lush greenery.
Historical caves with beautiful carvings and scenic views, perfect for outdoor exploration.
Scenic hills with a peace pagoda, offering beautiful views and a serene atmosphere for outdoor activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Khurda with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Khurda
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Daya River. It's a great spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
These ancient caves have beautiful landscapes surrounding them, offering excellent photo opportunities. The views of the city from here are also impressive.
Home to a variety of wildlife and beautiful natural landscapes, providing great photo opportunities, especially for nature photography.
Food in Khurda
Khurda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious dessert made with cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom, and then baked to perfection. It can be found at most local sweet shops in Khurda.
Must-Try!
This popular street food consists of soft lentil dumplings soaked in spiced yogurt, topped with a tangy tamarind sauce and served with seasoned potatoes. Look for it at street food stalls around the city.
A delectable fish curry cooked with mustard paste and a melange of traditional spices. You can savor this dish at local seafood eateries and traditional Odia restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Khurda better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the most vibrant and bustling markets in Khurda, offering a wide range of street food delights including chaats, samosas, and local sweets.
A popular spot for sampling street food in the evenings, with stalls serving up specialties like kebabs, tikkas, and various regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Khurda, India, it is customary to greet others with a 'Namaste' and a slight bow, showing respect for the person you are addressing.
When dining in Khurda, it is polite to use your right hand for eating, as the left hand is considered unclean. Also, it is customary to wait to be invited before starting to eat.
It is important to dress modestly in Khurda, particularly when visiting religious sites or participating in cultural events, to show respect for local traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Khurda with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Khurda
Ensure a smooth experience
In Khurda, India, tipping is not a common practice. However, in upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. If the service charge is not included, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is appreciated.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Khurda, India. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and major establishments, but it is always advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local markets. Mobile payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Khurda.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Khurda, India. Expect cool and pleasant weather with a low chance of rainfall.
Can be hot and humid. May experience occasional rain showers.
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. May experience flooding.
Mild and pleasant weather, with lower humidity and less chance of rainfall.
Khurda at Night
Hiking in Khurda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Bhubaneswar, the Khandagiri Caves offer historic rock-cut caves to explore along with trails that provide a blend of hiking and cultural exploration.
Adjacent to Khandagiri, Udayagiri features ancient caves and pathways that are ideal for hiking enthusiasts interested in history and geology.
Includes well-maintained trails through flora and fauna, providing a unique hiking experience near Khurda alongside wildlife viewing opportunities.
Offers numerous trails through dense forests and rich biodiversity; great for both hiking and wildlife enthusiasts.
A serene hiking spot that requires a moderate trek, known for its picturesque views and temples at the summit.
Along the banks of the Daya River, visitors can enjoy shorter hikes with stunning views of the river and its surroundings.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Khurda through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Khurda by plane.
The nearest major airport located in Bhubaneswar, approximately 30 km from Khurda.
An international airport located in Visakhapatnam, about 350 km from Khurda.
An airport in Rajahmundry, approximately 450 km from Khurda.
An international airport in Kolkata, West Bengal, roughly 450 km from Khurda.
An airport in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, situated about 600 km from Khurda.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group representing various castes recognized as socially and educationally backward.
People belonging to the higher castes or those not classified under any reserved categories.
Communities recognized by the government as historically disadvantaged, often referred to as Dalits.
Indigenous communities in the region that are provided reserved seats in education and government jobs.
Includes groups such as Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and others, constituting a significant part of the demographic fabric.
The Soul of Khurda
Discover the essence of Khurda through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in Khurda, played at various levels from local schools to organized clubs and leagues.
Football enjoys a significant following in Khurda, with many enthusiasts playing in local tournaments and supporting regional teams.
Field hockey has a rich history in India, and Khurda is no exception with many players participating in state-level competitions.
Badminton is growing in popularity, with several clubs and facilities encouraging both recreational and competitive play.
Kabbadi is a traditional sport in India, and it remains widely played and celebrated during local festivals and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khurda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Khurda offers plenty of vegetarian dishes like Dalma, Pakhala Bhata, and various vegetable curries, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for vegetarians.
While vegan options may be limited in traditional eateries, many restaurants in Khurda are happy to accommodate vegan requirements with advance notice, offering dishes like mixed veg curry and Bhendi Bhaja.
Travelers needing gluten-free options can enjoy dishes such as Alu Chakta, Khichdi, and fresh fruit salads at local restaurants and cafes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Khurda with these cultural adventures.
