Odisha is the land of culture, where passionate and loyal locals stay true to their roots as they reflect the vibrancy of this state. It is a land of rich history, endless roads and temples, walls that echo tales of love, war and devotion. Odisha is truly a state of golden hues and mesmerising yellow, dotted with temple towns.

Odisha has many shades highlighted by its seasons. It also has unexplored hill stations apart from its many beaches and temples. Odisha is a treasure trove in itself. Which shade you’d like to witness in Odisha, is totally your choice. We, at Thomas Cook, will make sure you make the right decision by helping you choose when to take the big step. Each season in Odisha has something different to offer. Here, we have for you all the information that you may require in order to choose the most ideal time to travel. Listed for you are also the precautions that you must take before and while you are on your trip.

Take a look!

Peak Season – October to February

Shoulder Season – June to September 

Low Season – March to May

Odisha in Winter (October – February)

Temperature - The air temperature during the season of winter fluctuates between 16°C and 28°C.

Weather – With misty mornings and cool winds waking you up with a gentle nudge, Odisha in winter is a comfortable affair. The coastal region during this time of the year is quiet with a constant presence of tranquillity in the air. The only thing you will probably hear is the sound of the sea waves touching the seashore. The pleasant weather during the winter season makes it the best time to visit Odisha. The weather calls out to a number of tourists, kicking off the high season. Odisha in winter means peaceful nights with yourself with the gift of clear blue skies above you. This is also the best time to head outdoors and explore the state. 

Significant events - The agreeable weather along with a number of activities and festivals only makes Odisha more inviting to tourists all over the globe. This is a suitable time to venture outdoors and acquaint yourself with the surroundings. However, the main highlight of this time of the year is Durga Puja. As the aroma of Bengali food fills your senses, pandals are lit up with the blessings of God as huge idols of Durga Ma leave you in awe of the Goddess’ prominent and strong presence. 
This festival is celebrated with a whole lot of grandeur over Odisha during the months of September to October that are addressed as Ashwin and Kartik. You will see locals are dressed up in bright colours as chants and hymns in the morning set the tone for the day. The evening aartis mark the grand celebration during this time of the year, setting the festive mood as the day proceeds. This enlightening festival is celebrated widely for three to four days in the many towns and cities of this state. It also is one of the most important festivals celebrated in Odisha. Another festival that is celebrated during this time of the year is the Konark Dance Festival. Held in the month of December, this festival celebrates the art of Odissi dance. An ode to the beauty of the Konark Temple, this festival brings together classical dancers who present their divine dance to people from all over the globe. The temple in the evening is lit up in beautiful hues of gold, accentuating its divine beauty. 

Why you should visit now – This time of the year is all about festivals, celebrations and illuminated streets. The usually quaint and quiet state is in a spur of excitement as tourists flock in huge numbers during the winter season. This is also a good time to venture outdoors and visit the many temples that dot the state of Odisha such as Konark Temple. You could also drive to the quaint hill stations of this state such as Daringbadi which is also known as the Kashmir of Odisha. 

Things to know before the visit –Since this is a preferred tourist destination by people from all over the globe, the winter season invites the highest number of tourists to this region. Hence make sure that you book your tickets and accommodation well in advance.

Tips – Since this is the peak season, be mindful of the fact that discounts may not be available and hence weigh your options carefully before booking your accommodation. Plan your activities and itinerary according to the weather. While you pack, make sure you include both warm and cool clothes as well as sunscreen and some glasses. Carry a light jacket and a wind cheater since it may rain at any given time of the day.
You can also check out more ways on How to Reach Odisha.

Odisha in Monsoon (June – August)

Temperature - The air temperature during the season of monsoon ranges between 25°C and 32°C.

Weather – Known to be a tropical region, this time of the year surprises you with random rain showers and drizzles with a chance of thunderstorm. Covered in golden hues all through the year, this season brings out the greens in Odisha, highlighting its breath-taking flora. Odisha is a blessing to all the nature-lovers out there. While the days are humid, the nights provide some relief by being cool and pleasant.

Significant events –The beauty of Odisha flourishes and thrives in the monsoon season. The main highlight of this time of the year is the four-day long festival of Raja Parba that celebrates womanhood. The Earth Goddess; Basu-Mata is believed to be undergoing her menstrual cycle at this time of the year and hence all agricultural activities are put to a halt for the Goddess to rest. Activities such as ploughing and cutting of trees that could harm or hurt nature are stopped. Another festival that is celebrated during this time of the year is Naukhai. This is an agricultural festival celebrated by the people in western Odisha and Chhattisgarh. It celebrates and welcomes the new rice of the season, marking the beginning of the harvest season. 

Why you should visit now – The rains highlight the beauty of this tropical paradise and reveals all shades of green during this time of the year. This is a good time to witness Odisha in all its glory. Since the tourist season is not at its peak, Odisha is fairly quiet during this time of the year. Hence, it feels like it is a holiday destination that is reserved just for you. You could head to Puri to witness the magic of the monsoon. You could also go for a jungle safari or sit by the waterfall and simply relax. 

Things to know before the visit – Do not forget to check the weather reports before booking your tickets and accommodation. Book a hotel that is centrally located and accessible. Carry some cash in case you plan to travel to remote areas and beaches. Watch out for some discounts on accommodation since this is not really the peak season.

Tips – Do carry a lightweight jacket. Carry wind cheaters, sunscreen, sports shoes, mosquito repellents and torches when you plan to venture outdoors.

Odisha in Summer (March– May)

Temperature - The air temperature during the season of summer fluctuates between 25°C and 36°C.

Weather – The weather of Odisha in summer is all about sunny days and pleasantly warm nights. However, the sun pays no mercy during this time of the year and is rather harsh. Hence, it would be advisable to head out by the evening. However, if you are in for an adventure and still want to head outdoors, you could go to the Chilika Lake, spot some majestic dolphins and simply unwind. However, always carry a sunblock and some sunglasses with you for protection.

Significant events – Though this time of the year is deemed to be less touristy and quieter, Odisha’s festivals are what makes this season exciting and worth visiting. Plenty of festivals are in store for you if you are planning to head to Odisha in the summer season. One of the main highlights of this season is the Rath Yatra. Popular as the Car Festival, it is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. This festival showcases and celebrates the journey of Lord Krishna from Gokul to Mathura. The locals have actively participated in the Rath Yatra since time immemorial. So much so, that in the ancient times people used to jump to death right in front of the Rath with the belief that it would send them to heaven!

Why you should visit now – If you would rather take the road less travelled, this is the best time to visit Odisha. In the summer season, the state is all about quiet roads, serenity draping the nature and silences as sweet as honey. This is also the best time to spend some quality time with your family away from the hustle bustle of tourists.

Things to know before the visit – Do check for discounts that may be available at this time of the year, since this is the off season. Plan your activities and itinerary keeping the weather in mind. Wear hats and sunglasses at all times to protect yourself from the heat. Try stepping outdoors once the sun sets.

Tips – Carry cool, cotton clothes. Stay hydrated by sipping on water, juice or some coconut water to make sure the heat doesn’t get the better of you. If you plan on engaging in water sports, try going in the early hours of the morning.

If you are intrigued and tempted to pack your bags right away, visit our website and go through the Odisha Tour packages that we offer. If you have any more questions, you will get the answers that you are looking for on the Thomas Cook page. Contact us immediately to book your tickets and accommodation.