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Odisha turns into a serene paradise in December.With the winter chill setting in, the landscapes glow with misty mornings, vibrant cultural fairs, and wildlife at its most active. The places to visit in Odisha in December range from highland retreats and hidden waterfalls to rare sanctuaries and lesser-known heritage sites. This is the perfect month for travellers looking to explore both the natural and spiritual side of the state. Whether you’re chasing the early winter sun on a forest safari or witnessing rare rituals in age-old shrines, Odisha delivers an unmatched experience.
10 Places To Visit In Odisha In December
These places to visit in Odisha in December open up some of the most scenic, peaceful, and culturally rich destinations across Odisha.
1. Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary
Photo: Martin Asparuhov / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tucked between the Eastern Ghats, Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary stands out in December with active wildlife and slow-moving waters of the Mahanadi River. The river cuts a 22-kilometre-long gorge through sandstone cliffs, creating a habitat that attracts migratory birds, mugger crocodiles, and Indian skimmers. During winter, visibility improves for spotting elephants along the forest trails and sloth bears around watering holes. One of the top places to visit in Odisha in December, Satkosia offers both adventure and calm. It’s also popular among campers, with eco-retreats and forest tents that stay open till early January.
Location: Angul District
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹40 for Indians & ₹100 for Foreigners
Nearby Attractions: Tikarpada Crocodile Sanctuary, Labangi Forest Trail, Satkosia Tiger Reserve
2. Bhitarkanika National Park
Photo: Vishwasa Navada K / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A wetland ecosystem, Bhitarkanika National Park is a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts in December. Spread across tidal rivers, mangrove creeks, and mudflats, this park is known for having one of the largest populations of saltwater crocodiles in India. Winter invites thousands of migratory birds, making it a prime birdwatching spot. Painted storks, Asian openbills, and whistling teals crowd the skies and trees, creating a rare harmony of sound and colour. Nature trails inside the sanctuary lead to ancient watchtowers and breeding centres. Photography enthusiasts often spend hours here, capturing wildlife from a safe but close range.
Location: Kendrapara District
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Cost: ₹20 (Entry Fee), ₹3000 – ₹5000 (Boat safari)
Nearby Attractions: Dangamal Crocodile Breeding Centre, Kalibhanjadia Island, Gahirmatha Beach
3. Daringbadi
Photo: Asim Z Kodappana / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Often nicknamed the “Kashmir of Odisha,” Daringbadi is a highland escape that genuinely earns its title in December. Resting at over 3,000 feet, the hill station experiences a mild winter chill, and in some years, even a rare dusting of frost. Recognised as one of the most peaceful places to visit in Odisha in December, this highland retreat offers more than cool weather. Coffee plantations are green, pepper vines trail down tree trunks, and local tribal communities welcome visitors with handmade goods and food.
Location: Kandhamal District
Timings: 24*7
Nearby Attractions: Hill View Point, Nature Park, Emu Farm, Lovers’ Point
4. Taptapani Hot Spring
Photo: Ben Lim / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Taptapani is known as a forest getaway for its natural hot spring in the greenery. This is where the mineral-rich water flows through rocky ground, staying warm even during the chilliest winter mornings. In December, when the surrounding hills get colder, the contrast of the steamy pool becomes even more inviting. Visitors can bathe in the warm waters that have been used for generations by locals for their healing qualities. Travellers often stay in simple guesthouses nearby, where the focus is on nature, rest, and long walks under the open sky.
Location: Ganjam District
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Nearby Attractions: Chandragiri Tibetan Settlement, Mahuri Kalua Temple, Jirang Monastery
5. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Neel Parikh / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is spread across the western edge of Odisha. The forested hills dip into Hirakud Lake, and wildlife can be found easily in its quiet corners. December marks the ideal time to visit, with cooler temperatures making both safaris and nature walks more pleasant. The sanctuary supports leopards, wild boars, spotted deer, and many migratory bird species that begin to arrive in large numbers this month. The early morning light cuts through the sal and teak forests, creating the perfect conditions for wildlife spotting and photography.
Location: Bargarh District
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Cost: ₹20 (entry fee) & ₹1000 (guided safari)
Nearby Attractions: Hirakud Dam, Zero Point, Ushakothi Caves
6. Hirapur Yogini Temple
Photo: Paurav Shah / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Hirapur Yogini Temple is a 9th-century stone shrine located just outside Bhubaneswar, built in a circular form without a roof and dedicated to 64 yoginis, female deities with strong links to tantric traditions. Each yogini is sculpted with distinct ornaments, postures, and expressions. They are arranged carefully along the inner wall of the sanctum. The open structure is small but powerful in presence, and the site has remained untouched by larger crowds or modern reconstructions. Visitors often walk slowly around the inner circle, observing each yogini in silence.
Location: 15 km from Bhubaneswar
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Nearby Attractions: Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Pipili Appliqué Village, Lingaraja Temple
7. Sambalpur
Photo: Jnanaranjan Sahu / Wikimedia Commons
Sambalpur, one of the oldest cities in western Odisha, becomes livelier in December when the weather turns cool and dry. The local calendar also picks up with winter fairs and community celebrations that reflect Sambalpur’s cultural strength. As one of the most layered places in Odisha, it introduces visitors to folk traditions still practised daily. Sambalpuri handloom work, often run by families who’ve woven for generations, continues in small workshops. The leaning temple of Huma and the Ghanteswari Temple draw both pilgrims and curious tourists. Walk near Hirakud backwaters and spend time in open-air markets.
Location: Western Odisha
Timings: 24*7
Nearby Attractions: Huma Leaning Temple, Debrigarh, Hirakud Wildlife Point, Ghanteswari Temple
8. Rambha
Photo: badachai / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Rambha is at the quieter southern end of Chilika Lake, where fishing boats line the shore and wide stretches of water reflect the early winter sky. December brings steady, dry weather that makes boat rides smoother and birdwatching more rewarding. Unlike the busier areas of the lake, Rambha moves at its own pace. As one of the calmest places to visit in Odisha in December, it draws travellers looking to spend time on the lake without crowds. Boatmen here often take visitors to small islands like Breakfast Island and Honeymoon Island.
Location: Ganjam District
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹50 – 3000 (Boat rides)
Nearby Attractions: Breakfast Island, Honeymoon Island, Chilika Eco Park
9. Phulbani
Photo: Soumya Banerjee / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Phulbani serves as a practical gateway to the natural and tribal landscapes of central Odisha. Located in Kandhamal district, the town is surrounded by hills, farmland, and thick forest cover. In December, the dry weather makes road conditions reliable and local trails easier to navigate. Recognised among the most rooted places to visit in Odisha, Phulbani gives direct access to waterfalls like Putudi and Pakdajhar, both of which flow steadily throughout the season. Visitors usually drive to nearby drop-off points and continue short treks on foot.
Location: Kandhamal District
Timings: 24*7
Nearby Attractions: Putudi Waterfall, Pakdajhar Waterfall, Mandasaru Gorge, Katramal Sun Temple
10. Belghar Nature Camp
Photo: Sagar Kulkarni / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Belghar lies deep inside Kandhamal district, at an elevation of around 2,500 feet. The cold in December is noticeable but comfortable, and the weather stays dry, which makes movement through the forest routes manageable. The forest department operates a nature camp here with simple concrete cottages and tents located on a small plateau with open views of the surrounding ridges. It stands out among the lesser-known places to visit in Odisha. Day treks are arranged by local staff, taking visitors to old watch points, animal tracks, and nearby plateaus.
Location: Kandhamal District
Cost: ₹3000 – ₹4500 per night (accommodation + activities)
Nearby Attractions: Belghar Forest, Kutia Kondh Tribal Villages, Bat Cave
The places to visit in Odisha in December offer pleasant weather and a calm travel experience. From forest reserves and hill towns to heritage sites and lake villages, each spot can be explored at a relaxed pace. Even a short winter getaway reveals Odisha’s unique blend of nature and culture. Plan your December trip with TripXL and discover destinations beyond the usual tourist trail in this serene eastern state.
Cover Photo: Ankur Khandelwal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
