One Day Itinerary for Gajapati

6:00 am – Start the day

– Have a refreshing breakfast at your accommodation in Gajapati.

7:00 am – Visit Paralakhemundi Fort

– Distance from Gajapati: Approximately 9 km
– Checklist: Camera, comfortable shoes, hat/cap, water bottle
– Historical Importance: Paralakhemundi Fort, also known as Mahalaxmi Fort, is a historic fort built in the 18th century. It served as the seat of the Gajapati rulers and is renowned for its impressive architecture and beautiful surroundings. The fort offers stunning views of the cityscape and the nearby hills.

8:30 am – Explore Mahendra Nature Park

– Distance from Paralakhemundi Fort: Approximately 5 km
– Checklist: Binoculars, sunscreen, mosquito repellent
– Historical Importance: Mahendra Nature Park is a serene and picturesque park known for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. It was established by the former king of Paralakhemundi, Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati Narayana Deo.

10:00 am – Visit Jagannath Temple

– Distance from Mahendra Nature Park: Approximately 8 km
– Checklist: Religious attire, footwear, camera
– Historical Importance: The Jagannath Temple in Gajapati is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The temple holds significant religious importance and hosts various festivals and rituals throughout the year.

11:30 am – Explore Padma Sagar Park

– Distance from Jagannath Temple: Approximately 3 km
– Checklist: Comfortable clothing, picnic supplies
– Historical Importance: Padma Sagar Park is a beautiful park located near the Jagannath Temple. It offers a serene atmosphere and a perfect spot for a picnic or peaceful stroll. The park also houses a lotus pond, which adds to its tranquility.

1:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant

– Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant offering traditional Odia cuisine.

2:30 pm – Visit Taptapani Hot Springs

– Distance from Padma Sagar Park: Approximately 25 km
– Checklist: Towel, change of clothes, swimwear (if desired)
– Historical Importance: Taptapani Hot Springs is a natural hot water spring known for its therapeutic properties. The water is said to have healing effects on various skin diseases and rheumatic pains.

4:30 pm – Explore Mohana Beach

– Distance from Taptapani Hot Springs: Approximately 32 km
– Checklist: Beachwear, sunscreen, sunglasses
– Historical Importance: Mohana Beach is a pristine beach located at the confluence of the Mahendratanaya River and the Bay of Bengal. It offers a tranquil escape, with its golden sands and clear blue waters.

6:30 pm – Enjoy the sunset at Ghodahada Dam

– Distance from Mohana Beach: Approximately 20 km
– Checklist: Camera, snacks
– Historical Importance: Ghodahada Dam is a scenic dam built on the Ghodahada River. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a picturesque spot to witness the mesmerizing sunset.

8:30 pm – Dinner at a local eatery

– Relish the local flavors of Gajapati by having dinner at a recommended local eatery.

9:00 pm – End of the day

– Return to your accommodation and rest for the night.

Note: It is advisable to have a private vehicle or hire a local taxi/car for a convenient and comfortable exploration of Gajapati.