Explore The Best Places To Visit In Odisha In November For A Calm & Scenic Vacation

Gopalpur beach in Odisha, with a wooden lounge chair and sandy shoreline, one of the best places to visit in Odisha in November.

Places to visit in Odisha in November draw travellers with cooler temperatures and festive energy that starts building across the region. It is the month when wildlife parks open fully, beaches are calm yet vibrant, and cultural sites host seasonal performances and events. The weather stays pleasant enough for full-day sightseeing, especially in places like Satkosia Gorge or the Buddhist ruins of Lalitgiri. Many migratory birds begin arriving at Chilika Lake, making it one of the best times for boat rides and nature spotting. Tribal regions such as Daringbadi are at their scenic best, with misty mornings and pine-covered hills.

10 Places To Visit In Odisha In November

These places to visit in Odisha in November bring out the best of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and wildlife destinations. Each place offers something distinct for travellers during this time.

1. Chilika Lake

Scenic view of Chilika Lake with a boats near the sandy shore, one of the top places to visit in Odisha in November.

Photo: Sayan Samanta / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Among the most fascinating places to visit in Odisha in November, Chilika Lake turns into a thriving hub for migratory birds. This is the time when thousands of flamingos, herons, and egrets arrive from distant parts of the world. The weather in November stays calm and pleasant, which makes the early morning boat rides ideal for spotting Irrawaddy dolphins. Travellers can hire local boats from the jetty area and take routes passing through tiny fishing villages and narrow canals. Rajhans Island, with its sandbar separating the lake from the sea, is a peaceful picnic stop that also offers views of both water bodies.

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹700
Major Attractions: Irrawaddy dolphin spotting, birdwatching during winter migration, sunset cruises, and Rajhans Island

2. Konark Sun Temple

A serene view of Konark Sun Temple with traditional architecture, intricate carvings.

Photo: Rahul Pandit / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The Sun Temple in Konark is built like a stone chariot pulled by carved horses, with twenty-four intricately designed wheels. Every surface has detailed scenes, dancers in mid-step, animals, and everyday life from centuries ago. These carvings reflect the artisanship of the 13th century and still hold up against time. During this time, the annual Konark Dance Festival is held in the open area nearby. This five-day event features classical performances by artists from different parts of India. Just outside, local shops sell handmade souvenirs of stone figurines, carved wheels, and scrolls made from palm leaves using old techniques passed down in the region.

Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Cost: ₹40 for Indian citizens, ₹600 for foreigners
Major Attractions: UNESCO-listed chariot-shaped temple, Konark Dance Festival (usually held in late November), intricate stone carvings

3. Simlipal National Park

Simlipal National Park with a green forest, one of the best places to visit in Odisha in November.

Photo: RABI NARAYAN UDGATA / Wikimedia Commons

Simlipal ranks among the most rewarding places to visit in Odisha in November, as this is when the park reopens after the monsoon. The forests are lush, the streams are active, and animal sightings become more frequent with the drop in temperature. Spread across the Mayurbhanj district, Simlipal is known for its tiger and elephant population, but it also shelters leopards, gaurs, langurs, and over 200 species of birds. Travellers usually begin their visit from Baripada and enter the park via Jashipur or Pithabata gates. Jungle safaris, led by forest department-approved vehicles, pass through grasslands, rocky hills, and tribal settlements.

Timings: 7 AM – 4 PM (closed on Mondays)
Cost: ₹100 per person
Major Attractions: Jungle safaris, Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls, tigers, elephants, tribal villages

4. Bhitarkanika National Park

Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary, with a green water body surrounded by dense mangrove forest

Photo: Sreenivas / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Bhitarkanika stands out as one of the most unique places to visit in Odisha, especially for travellers interested in mangrove ecosystems and wildlife not commonly seen elsewhere in India. After the monsoon ends, the park reopens in early November, and the river network becomes navigable again. Most visitors enter from Khola or Gupti gates, taking authorised boat safaris that weave through creeks lined with dense mangrove roots. The park is home to India’s largest population of saltwater crocodiles, and sightings are frequent during morning boat rides. Apart from crocodiles, it supports monitor lizards, spotted deer, wild boars, and over 250 species of birds, including kingfishers and open-billed storks.

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹40 for Indians, ₹100 for foreign tourists
Major Attractions: Estuarine crocodiles, mangrove forests, birdwatching, Kalibhanjadia Island

5. Daringbadi

Daringbadi in Odisha with green bushes and mountains, one of the places to visit in Odisha in November.

Photo: Trisha De Niyogi / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Daringbadi is called the coldest hill region in Odisha and becomes one of the most refreshing places to visit in Odisha in November. Located in Kandhamal district, this quiet town is surrounded by forests of pine and sal trees, coffee plantations, and tribal settlements. In November, the early winter mist begins to set in, but the weather stays pleasant enough for long walks, nature drives, and short hikes to nearby viewpoints. The Hill View Point and Lover’s Point offer panoramic views of the green valleys below, especially during early morning.

Timings: 24*7
Major Attractions: Pine forests, coffee plantations, Hill View Point. November’s cool weather is perfect for sightseeing

6. Gopalpur

Gopalpur sea beach with a sandy shoreline, incoming tide waves and a bright sunrise

Photo: Abishek K / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Gopalpur is a coastal town in southern Odisha that becomes more inviting as November sets in. The beach itself stretches for several kilometres and stays relatively uncrowded, making it suitable for long walks or simply sitting by the shore. Water activities like paddleboarding and banana boat rides return during this month when the sea conditions are safer. A short distance from the beach stands an old British-era lighthouse that still draws attention for its structure, even though it is not always open to visitors.

Timings: 24*7
Major Attractions: Serene beach walks, sunrise views, water sports, and seafood cafes

7. Lalitgiri Buddhist Complex

Lalitgiri Buddhist complex with the old ruined architecture of temples, amongst the best places to visit in Odisha in November.

Photo: Daniel Limma / Wikimedia Commons

Lalitgiri is one of the earliest Buddhist settlements in India and is a peaceful yet historically rich stop among the places to visit. It forms part of the Diamond Triangle of Odisha along with Ratnagiri and Udayagiri. The cooler, drier November weather makes it ideal for walking across the wide spread of ancient ruins without discomfort. The site includes a main stupa, remnants of prayer halls, and monastic buildings, many of which are still being studied by archaeologists. A museum located at the entrance displays relics found at the site, including a sacred tooth believed to be of the Buddha.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: ₹25 per adult
Major Attractions: Ancient stupas, monastic ruins, and museums with rare Buddhist relics

8. Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary

Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary with a large water body of the Mahanadi and mountains.

Photo: Debabrata Hazra / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary lies in the Angul district and stretches across both sides of the Mahanadi River. The forest stays thick and green after the rains, and the weather becomes cooler, making outdoor travel easier. The river flows between steep forested hills, forming a long natural gorge that feels remote and untouched. This is one of the few places in Odisha where you can take a boat ride and see mugger crocodiles and freshwater turtles resting along the banks. Many visitors start their trip from Tikarpada, where forest-run eco-camps open for the season.

Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Cost: ₹20 entry fee & ₹100 – 1500 for boat and safari
Major Attractions: Gorge views on the River Mahanadi, boating, camping at Tikarpada, crocodile conservation zone

9. Jirang Tibetan Settlement

Jirang monastery with traditional Buddhist architecture, statues on the entrance, amongst the top places to visit in Odisha in November

Photo: Nibedit / Wikimedia Commons

Jirang, located in the Gajapati district, is known for its quiet hills and Tibetan community that has made this place home. At the centre is the Padmasambhava Mahavihara Monastery, the largest of its kind in eastern India. Its golden roof and bright prayer flags are visible from far off and give the area a distinct character. November brings mild weather and open skies, which makes it easy to walk around the grounds without rushing. Most people spend time sitting near the steps or watching the monks go about their routines.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Major Attractions: Padmasambhava Monastery, peaceful surroundings, Tibetan food stalls, scenic hill backdrop

10. Taptapani Hot Springs

Taptapain Hot springs surrounded by rocks, a clear water body and piles of small rocks.

Photo: Ben Lim / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Taptapani is one of the lesser-known but rewarding places to visit in Odisha in November, especially for travellers who want to experience natural hot water springs in a scenic setting. Located about 50 kilometres from Berhampur, this spot is surrounded by forested slopes and small tribal villages. The spring water flows constantly and is naturally heated by geothermal activity. November is a comfortable month when the warm spring water is even more relaxing. There is a temple dedicated to Goddess Kandhuni Devi right next to the spring, which draws both locals and visitors.

Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Cost: N/A
Major Attractions: Natural hot springs, a temple nearby, and medicinal baths ideal for November’s chilly evenings.

The places to visit in Odisha in November open up with clear skies, drivable roads, and lively local festivals. From Chilika’s calm waters to Daringbadi’s hills and Konark’s sacred spaces, each spot is rich in nature and culture. Wildlife, heritage, and peaceful getaways come together after the rains. Plan your November journey with TripXL and experience the vibrant charm of Odisha in this refreshing post-monsoon season.

Cover Photo: Shantum Singh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Fly into Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar. Trains connect Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Berhampur with major cities. Highways from Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, and Raipur allow smooth road travel into Odisha.
Yes. Deomali near Koraput has gradual hill trails with clear views. Mahendragiri offers ridgeline walks through grass and stone. Belghar’s forest path crosses tribal villages and stream beds. November stays dry, making all three routes safe and walkable without heat or slush. Local guides are available on-site.
Satkosia and Simlipal have forest guest houses and eco-camps. Daringbadi offers hillside cottages and homestays. Gopalpur has sea-facing hotels and colonial-style bungalows. In Puri and Bhubaneswar, travellers can choose from budget hotels, serviced apartments, and high-end stays close to major attractions and transport links.
Take boat rides in Chilika to spot dolphins, watch dance performances at Konark Festival, relax at Gopalpur Beach, and explore tribal crafts in Raghurajpur. Wildlife safaris in Simlipal and guided walks in Satkosia are safe and enjoyable for children and adults alike during this season.
From Konark, visit the Jagannath Temple in Puri or stop at Raghurajpur to see palm-leaf art. Daringbadi pairs well with Belghar’s forest area and Putudi Waterfall. Taptapani is close to Gopalpur and Chandragiri monastery.

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