Things To Do
in Balasore
Balasore is a coastal city in northern Odisha perched near the Subarnarekha River and the Bay of Bengal. It blends maritime heritage with historic temples, market life, and a friendly, small-town charm. The city serves as a gateway to scenic beaches, rural landscapes, and nearby wildlife escapes, making it a practical stop for travelers exploring coastal Odisha.
The cuisine leans into fresh seafood, rice-based dishes, and regional sweets, offering a tasty introduction to the local palate.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Jagannath Temple, where you can admire the intricate architecture and learn about its rich history. Spend time absorbing the spiritual atmosphere as locals engage in their morning rituals and prayers. Don't forget to savor some local breakfast delicacies from nearby stalls, such as puffed rice and sweets.
Head to the Khirachora Gopinath Temple, a lesser-known gem, where the serene ambiance invites quiet reflection. After exploring the temple grounds, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Odia cuisine, including dalma and pakhala. As you walk through the town, visit local shops that offer handcrafted souvenirs and traditional textiles.
As the sun sets, return to the Jagannath Temple to witness the evening Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing experience filled with music and devotion. Take a stroll along the nearby streets, enjoying the lively evening atmosphere filled with vendors and locals. End your day with a delicious dinner at a local eatery, tasting more of the region's specialties.
Kick off your day at the stunning Chandipur Beach, known for its unique phenomenon of disappearing waves. Relax on the soft sands, and take a refreshing dip in the calm waters as you enjoy the peaceful morning ambiance. Don't forget to grab a light breakfast from a beachside shack, perhaps some fresh coconut water and snacks.
Engage in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing and banana boat rides, perfect for adventure enthusiasts looking for some excitement. Afterward, unwind with a delicious seafood lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh catches of the day. Spend the afternoon sunbathing or collecting seashells along the shoreline, making the most of your beach day.
As the day winds down, watch the spectacular sunset over the Bay of Bengal, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. Enjoy a leisurely beach walk, feeling the cool sand underfoot and the gentle sea breeze. Wrap up your beach day with a seaside dinner, indulging in grilled fish and local specialties while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🚲Local transportation (short ride or bus) | $2-6 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or local crafts | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible coastal scenery with beaches and riverfronts
- Affordable costs and welcoming local culture
- Good base for day trips to Chandipur and Kuldiha
- Fresh seafood and regional Odia cuisine
- Relatively easy to navigate for first-time travelers
- Limited nightlife and fewer Western-style amenities
- Heat and humidity in summer can be intense
- Some attractions require travel outside the city center
- Seasonal road and weather disruptions during monsoon
- Healthcare options may be basic in smaller clinics
- "ନମସ୍କାର (Namaskaar)" - Hello
- "ଆପଣ କେମିତି ଅଛନ୍ତି? (Apana kemiti achhanti?)" - How are you?
- "ଧନ୍ୟବାଦ (Dhan'yabaad)" - Thank you
- "ଦୟାକରି (Dayakari)" - Please
- "ମାଫ କରିବେ (Maaf karibe)" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "ମୋ ନାମ [your name] (Mo naam [your name])" - My name is [your name]
Places to Visit in Balasore
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, shifting shoreline with dramatic low-tide exposure and expansive horizons; ideal for long-shutter water with a calm, pastel sky.
Historic temples and precincts offering intricate stonework and atmospheric lighting at dawn or dusk.
Serene riverfront scenes with boats, reeds, and daily life along the water's edge, especially beautiful during golden hour.
Forest paths and flora-fauna glimpses suitable for nature photography, birdlife, and shy wildlife in a verdant setting.
Food in Balasore
Balasore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional baked sweet cheese cake from Odisha, commonly found in markets and sweet shops; pair with a hot chai for a regional dessert experience.
Must-Try!
Lightly spiced, pan-fried fish popular along the coast, best enjoyed with mustard or coriander chutney at local eateries near the harbor or markets.
A rich, rustic lentil and vegetable stew flavored with ginger, garlic, and turmeric; widely served with rice and a staple of Odia households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling markets where you can sample local snacks, fresh produce, and inexpensive meals; a great place to observe daily life and try street bites.
Beachfront stalls offering quick bites, fried snacks, fresh fish, and cooling beverages with sea breezes and views of the coastline.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite Namaste; use the right hand for exchanges and handshakes when appropriate.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples; remove shoes where required and follow local signage.
Avoid loud behavior in markets and religious spaces; ask permission before photographing people, especially in private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Balasore
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants if service charge is not included (about 5-10%). For street vendors and local guides, a small tip is appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted, with growing use of cards and digital payments (UPI, wallets) in towns and tourist spots. Keep small notes and coins for street purchases and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to June brings high heat and humidity; carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak sun.
June to September delivers heavy rainfall and lush landscapes; roads can be slippery, and some areas may experience flooding, so check local updates and keep rain gear handy.
October to February offers cooler, pleasant weather with lower humidity—great for sightseeing, beach walks, and outdoor excursions.
Balasore at Night
Hiking in Balasore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature photography within a short drive from Balasore.
Easy, scenic hikes along the Subarnarekha River and Chandipur coast, suitable for beginners and families.
Airports
How to reach Balasore by plane.
The closest major airport with domestic and limited international flights; access by road or train from Balasore with a multi-hour drive.
A larger international hub; reachable by longer road or rail journey from Balasore for broader flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant religious and cultural practices shape daily life and festival calendars.
Communities contributing to cultural diversity and local markets; respectful engagement is appreciated.
Diverse occupational groups along the river and coast influence local cuisine and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and spectator sport; local matches and informal play are common in parks and schools.
Widely played in youth leagues and community games; informal kickabouts occur on open grounds and beaches.
Common in homes and community centers; easy to pick up for travelers looking for indoor activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balasore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose dal-based dishes, rice, vegetables, paneer or chhena preparations; ask for mustard oil substitutes if needed and confirm no meat stock in broths.