Things To Do
in Od

Od, India, is a picturesque town nestled in the lush landscapes of the Indian state of Odisha. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Od boasts historical temples and vibrant local festivals that attract visitors year-round. The town is surrounded by scenic hills and lush greenery, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers.

With friendly locals and a unique blend of tradition and modernity, Od offers a memorable experience for every traveler.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Jagannath Temple, where you can witness the morning rituals and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the Odisha State Museum to discover the region's rich history and artistic heritage.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a stroll along the Puri Beach, where you can enjoy the sunset and relax by the sea.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a trek to the nearby Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves, known for their ancient rock-cut architecture.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch at the scenic Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can explore the diverse flora and fauna.

evening
:

End your adventure with a visit to a local market to shop for handicrafts and souvenirs, followed by dinner at a traditional Odia restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$3
🏨Budget Hotel per Night$20
🚕Local Taxi Ride$2
🚌Bus Ticket$1
🍹Drink at Bar$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation can be less reliable.
  • Hot summer months may be uncomfortable for some.
  • "Namaste" - Hello
  • "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
  • "Kaha ki khabar?" - What's the news?
  • "Bhala achhi" - I am fine
  • "Aapan kahan jae?" - Where are you going?

Places to Visit in Od

Visit one of these nice places.

Jagannath Temple

An architectural marvel with intricate carvings, perfect for capturing the essence of Odia culture.

Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary

A lush landscape filled with diverse wildlife, ideal for nature photography.

Puri Beach

Stunning sunrise and sunset views, with opportunities to capture local beach life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Od

Od offers a delectable array of traditional Odia cuisine, famous for its use of local ingredients and unique flavors.

Od Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dalma

A lentil and vegetable stew seasoned with spices, considered a staple in Odia cuisine.

Must-Try!

Pakhala

Fermented rice served with curd and various side dishes, perfect for hot weather.

Chhena Poda

A delicious dessert made from baked cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Buxi Bazaar

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and sweets.

Seafood Stalls at Puri Beach

Street vendors serving fresh seafood delicacies right by the beach.

Climate Guide

Weather

Od experiences a tropical climate with three main seasons: a hot summer (March to June), a monsoon season (July to September), and a pleasant winter (November to February). Summer can be extremely hot with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F). The monsoon brings heavy rainfall, while winter offers cool temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), making it the best time for travel.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Religion

Always remove shoes before entering temples, and dress modestly.

Greetings

A simple 'Namaste' with hands pressed together is a common greeting.

Dining Customs

Eat with your right hand, and wait for the host to start the meal before you begin.

Safety Guide

Safety

Od is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables. Additionally, be cautious while swimming in the ocean and avoid isolated areas at night.

Tipping in Od

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; round up taxi fares as a courtesy.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash, and digital payments are increasingly popular; credit cards may not be widely accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

From November to February, expect pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing.

Summer

March to June can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

Monsoon

July to September brings heavy rainfall; enjoy the lush greenery but be cautious of flooding.

Festive Season

October sees numerous festivals; experience cultural celebrations but expect larger crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Od at Night

The nightlife in Od is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Local bars and eateries often offer live music and traditional dance performances. Pubs in Puri Beach area provide a more vibrant atmosphere with beach parties and gatherings, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Hiking in Od

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khandagiri Hills Trail

A moderate hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and ancient caves.

Udayagiri Hills Trail

A scenic hike leading to historic caves with ancient inscriptions and beautiful flora.

Airports

How to reach Od by plane.

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPN)

Located approximately 60 km away in Bhubaneswar, this airport offers both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Od is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions are clustered. Sidewalks are generally available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. Walking is a great way to explore local markets, temples, and eateries.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Odia Ethnic Group

The majority ethnic group, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Tribal Communities

Various tribal groups inhabit the region, contributing to its cultural diversity and traditional practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular, with locals often playing in open fields and following professional matches.

Hockey

Field hockey has a strong following, and local tournaments are held regularly, showcasing local talent.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Od is generally manageable, but congestion can occur during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and auto-rickshaws, with auto-rickshaws being the most common means of transport for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Od.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Odia cuisine is predominantly vegetarian, making it easy for vegetarians to find suitable meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Many local dishes are naturally gluten-free, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Od include public and private hospitals, with the latter often providing better services. It's advisable to have travel insurance and carry necessary medications, as pharmacies may have limited stock.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide