New Delhi: Odia New Year 2026 or Maha Bishuba Sankranti will be celebrated by Odia families across the world on April 14. The occasion brings with it a time of devotion, community gatherings and meaningful travel across Odisha. Homes prepare traditional drinks, temples hold special rituals, and families step out to mark the beginning of a fresh calendar year. Many travellers use this festive window to explore destinations that hold cultural and spiritual value while offering memorable experiences.
Coastal towns witness sunrise prayers, temple cities host heritage walks and food festivals, and hill stations provide calm escapes as April temperatures rise. Each location carries its own rhythm of celebration, rooted deeply in Odia identity. If you are planning a short break around Pana Sankranti, Odisha presents options that range from sacred shrines to scenic valleys. Here are some of the most popular destinations where Odia New Year is observed.
Travel destinations in Odisha to celebrate Maha Bishuba Sankranti
1. Puri
Puri remains the epicentre of Odia New Year observances. Rituals at Jagannath Temple mark the start of the new Panjika and draw devotees in large numbers.
Things to do in Puri
- Explore a vast complex comprising 30 smaller shrines.
- View the world’s largest temple kitchen, where food is cooked in earthen pots.
- Observe artisans building chariots for Ratha Yatra.
- Experience Samudra Aarti at Swargadwar Beach.
- Visit the nearby Gundicha Temple.
2. Bhubaneswar and Cuttack
Bhubaneswar and Cuttack host the 14-day Odia Pakhya celebration during April 1-14, showcasing heritage events, traditional attire days and lively food festivals.
Things to do in Bhubaneswar
- Visit the ancient Mukteswara and Rajarani temples for architectural beauty.
- Spend a day at Ekamra Kanan or visit Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves.
- Many cafes and restaurants in Bhubaneswar offer special New Year’s Eve dinners and parties.
- Take a quick trip to Chilika Lake for boating.
Things to do in Cuttack
- Visit Cuttack Chandi Temple.
- Explore Netaji Birth Place Museum and maritime history at Odisha Maritime Museum.
- Relax at the Mahanadi Barrage.
- Buy exquisite silver filigree Tarakasi jewellery and showpieces.
3. Konark Sun Temple
Konark Sun Temple offers a powerful start to the new year, especially at sunrise when first light touches ancient stone carvings.
Things to do at Konark Sun Temple
- Examine 24 massive wheels that function as sundials and seven horses symbolising the days of the week.
- View detailed panels showing daily life, dancers, musicians, animals and mythological figures.
- Enjoy the evening light and sound show in the temple complex, costing Rs 50 per person.
- Visit the ASI Museum located 1.5 km away, housing four galleries with 260 excavated antiquities.
- Visit the Indian Oil Foundation Museum.
- Visit Ramachandi Temple on the banks of the Kushabhadra River and enjoy boating.
- Enjoy Chandrabhaga Beach, known for its clean shoreline and scenic sunrise and sunset views.
4. Daringbadi
Daringbadi, often called the Kashmir of Odisha, offers a refreshing climate and green landscapes during early summer days.
Things to do in Daringbadi
- Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Walk through dense coffee and pepper plantations managed by the Forest Department.
- Take a peaceful walk among tall pine trees, popular for photography.
- Explore Mandasaru Valley, known as Silent Valley, for sweeping nature views.
- Walk through Butterfly Park, a vibrant space featuring native flora and butterflies.
5. Barunei Hills
Barunei Hills attract travellers seeking trekking trails and historical sites linked to Odisha’s past.
Things to do at Barunei Hills
- The trek trail takes 30-45 minutes to reach the hilltop.
- Visit Maa Barunei and Karunei Temple, dedicated to twin goddesses associated with the Shakti and Paika history of Odisha.
- Visit Khurda Fort, a 16th-century stronghold in the vicinity.
- Experience short paramotoring rides up to 300 feet, available for around Rs 2,000 for 15 minutes.
- Explore and photograph scenic areas, including Sitakunda stream and the surrounding greenery.
- Explore the cave known as Pandaba Gumpha at an elevation of about 700 feet.
Odia New Year 2026 offers a chance to begin the year with prayer, travel and reflection. These destinations promise celebration rooted in culture and enriched by Odisha’s diverse landscapes.