Odisha is full of gorgeous places that are perfect for celebrating New Year’s with family and friends. Here are some of the best picnic spots that fit in the description of ideal places to visit in Odisha, from peaceful beaches to dense forests to livelier cultural spots:
1. Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and is a very popular place to visit for New Year’s celebrations. There are all types of activities for visitors or tourists here, such as boating, birdwatching, and just admiring the beautiful tranquility of nature. Kalijai Temple built on an island in the lake can be visited as well.
2. Puri Beach
One can be at Puri Beach to celebrate New Year by the sea. Golden sands, a bubbling atmosphere, and the crowd around nature’s most glee places like Jagannath Temple make up a very bright picnic destination, and part of its unique beauty is also the special festive spirit on New Year’s eve.
3. Daringbadi
Famed as the Kashmir of Odisha, Daringbadi is a tranquil hill station surrounded by pine forests and coffee estates. Its cool days and pleasing nature make it a coveted place to celebrate New Year.
4. Simlipal National Park
An adventurous mind can visit the Simlipal National Park situated in the district of Mayurbhanj. It is known for its cultivation of diverse biodiversity, beautiful waterfalls, and trails through the forest, thus offering a wonderful picnic in the worship of Mother Nature and wild life.
5. Konark Sun Temple and Chandrabhaga Beach
The historic Konark Sun Temple coupled with the rejuvenating Chandrabhaga Beach nearby is a dazzling culture-life combo. Children activities for picnicking can be easily enjoyed in the lush gardens surrounding the temple, while the beach proves very serene.
6. Satkosia Gorge
Satkosia Gorge is known for the Mahanadi River which flows beside it, and is a cute place for nature lovers. Being endowed with distinctly beautiful views, it offers plenty of trekking and boating opportunities, besides being very peaceful and is sure to be a picnic destination.
7. Bhitarkanika National Park
It is an ideal picnic spot for New Year celebrations because of its special ecosystem, specifically mangrove forests and saltwater crocodiles. Nature lovers can explore bird watching and the charming wetland heritage of Odisha.
8. Barunei Hills
Located sited beyond Bhubaneswar, the Barunei Hills remain a little-known vista which is actually really beautiful for picnic sessions. With this place having some adorable views, nice hiking trails, and a very tranquil setting, it is perfect for family gatherings or a bunch of friends.
9. Mahanadi Barrage of Cuttack
Scenic indeed, the area surrounding Mahanadi Barrage in Cuttack serves as a favorite hangout spot for most local residents as well as visitors to the city. Truly, a calm environment and scenic surroundings featuring the river make it even lovely as a picnic spot for the New Year.
10. Hirakud Dam
The Hirakud Dam in Sambalpur would be the perfect site for a picnic. Enjoy the sight of the dam, take a tour of nearby Gandhi Minar, or simply relax at the soft reservoirs.