Chasing Sunsets: The Most Instagrammable Beaches in Odisha
Odisha, a coastal gem in eastern India, is blessed with a coastline that stretches over 480 kilometres, offering some of the most picturesque and serene beaches in the country. From tranquil shores to dramatic sunsets, Odisha’s beaches are perfect for those seeking beauty, peace, and Instagram-worthy moments. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone who simply enjoys stunning views, here’s a guide to the most Instagrammable beaches in Odisha, where you can chase the perfect sunset and capture unforgettable memories.
Puri Beach is undoubtedly the most famous beach in Odisha. Located in the heart of Puri, a city renowned for its cultural and religious significance, this beach offers an excellent mix of vibrant energy and natural beauty. What makes Puri Beach Instagram-worthy is its blend of golden sands, lively atmosphere, and panoramic sunset views. The sight of the sun setting over the Bay of Bengal, with fishermen’s boats and pilgrims in the backdrop, makes for a captivating shot.
Besides the sunsets, the beach is known for its colourful beach shacks, traditional handicrafts, and the famous Jagannath Temple. The daily life along the shoreline, with its myriad of activities, makes for a dynamic Instagram feed, and the photo opportunities are endless.
Best time to visit: Early mornings for sunrise or evenings for the stunning sunset.
Instagram tip: Capture the sunset behind the fishing boats and the temple, or take a wide-angle shot of the bustling beach life.
Chandipur Beach, located in the Balasore district, is one of the most unique and peaceful beaches in Odisha. What makes it so special is the phenomenon of the “vanishing sea,” where the tide recedes as far as 5 kilometres, exposing the seabed and creating a surreal landscape. This makes for an incredible backdrop for any photographer looking to capture the beauty of nature in a different light.
The tranquil environment, unspoiled sands, and the vast stretch of water during low tide create an ethereal atmosphere that’s perfect for sunset photography. The serene ambiance, with few crowds around, allows you to enjoy the beach in solitude while you snap some stunning shots.
Best time to visit: Late afternoons, during low tide when the sea is far away.
Instagram tip: Capture the receding sea with a long exposure shot, and make sure to photograph the contrast between the golden sands and the setting sun.
Located in the Ganjam district, Gopalpur Beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty. The beach is quieter than Puri, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the calmness of the sea and chase the perfect sunset without the crowds. The golden sands and the turquoise waters make for a stunning visual, especially during sunset when the sky turns into shades of orange, pink, and purple.
Gopalpur is also home to several beach resorts and shacks, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while sipping on coconut water or a cold beverage. The lighthouse nearby adds an interesting focal point to any photo you take, enhancing the beauty of the beach.
Best time to visit: Sunset hours for the most breathtaking views.
Instagram tip: Try capturing the lighthouse silhouette with the sunset, or take a long shot of the beach with people walking along the shore for a more atmospheric shot.
Balighai Beach, located near Puri, is a hidden gem for those looking for a less crowded and peaceful beach. The beach is not only known for its scenic beauty but also for its rich biodiversity, as it’s a nesting site for Olive Ridley turtles. The calm, shallow waters and the long stretch of golden sands make it a perfect spot for both relaxation and photography.
The beach is relatively undeveloped, so it retains its natural charm. The sunsets here are particularly beautiful, as the sun sinks into the horizon over the vast expanse of the ocean. The view of the beach framed by tall palm trees, combined with the vibrant sky, creates an idyllic setting for stunning Instagram posts.
Best time to visit: Sunset for capturing the most vibrant colours of the sky.
Instagram tip: Capture the sunset with the beach framed by palm trees or try a close-up of the sea and sand with the dramatic sky in the background.
Ramchandi Beach, located near Konark, is known for its pristine beauty and peaceful surroundings. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is named after the nearby Ramchandi Temple. It’s less crowded than Puri Beach, offering a more serene atmosphere for those looking to take in the beauty of the coastline at their own pace.
The sunsets here are magical, with the sky turning vibrant colours and the calm waters reflecting the hues of the evening. The unique blend of sandy shores, rocky outcrops, and lush landscapes makes it an ideal location for a breathtaking sunset photograph. The nearby temple adds a spiritual touch to the beach’s beauty.
Best time to visit: Late afternoons for a peaceful sunset experience.
Instagram tip: Capture the sunset with the temple in the foreground or shoot a panoramic view of the beach with the golden sunset casting long shadows on the sands.
Kaliapathar Beach, located near Dhamra in the Bhadrak district, is one of the lesser-known beaches in Odisha, but it’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and find peace. The beach is known for its black rocks (from where it gets its name), clear waters, and the dramatic landscape that forms the perfect backdrop for any photography session.
The sunset views at Kaliapathar Beach are awe-inspiring, as the sun dips behind the black rocks, creating a contrast against the colourful sky. The quiet, natural environment makes this beach a perfect escape for nature photographers.
Best time to visit: Sunset for capturing the stunning contrast between the rocks and the sky.
Instagram tip: Focus on the silhouette of the rocks against the setting sun, or capture a wide shot of the beach with the rocks leading into the horizon.
Pattapur Beach, located in the Ganjam district, is one of the most secluded beaches in Odisha. The untouched beauty of the beach, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, makes it a perfect destination for beach lovers and photographers alike. The peaceful atmosphere, coupled with the scenic views, makes it an ideal location for capturing breathtaking sunsets without the usual crowds.
The sunsets here are serene and often less dramatic compared to other beaches in Odisha, but the subtle beauty of the fading sun over the water makes it a perfect setting for capturing the tranquil essence of nature.
Best time to visit: Sunset, when the beach is almost empty and the sky turns into a beautiful mix of hues.
Instagram tip: Try taking a wide-angle shot of the beach with the sun sinking into the horizon, or focus on the reflections in the water during sunset.
The Puri-Konark Marine Drive offers several beautiful beaches along its route, each offering a different aspect of Odisha’s coastal beauty. The beaches here are less commercialised, making them ideal for photographers and travellers seeking peace and natural beauty.
From the peaceful shores of Konark Beach to the golden sands of the beach near the Sun Temple, each stretch of the drive offers unique views. The sunsets along this route are spectacular, with the sun setting over the Bay of Bengal, offering a perfect blend of colours.
Best time to visit: Sunset, along the Marine Drive route.
Instagram tip: Capture the sunset over the sea, or take a creative shot with the Sun Temple in the background, highlighting the connection between nature and history.
Conclusion
Odisha’s beaches are a haven for those seeking beauty, tranquillity, and stunning sunsets. Whether you’re visiting Puri Beach for its lively atmosphere or exploring the quiet shores of Gopalpur or Chandipur, Odisha offers a perfect blend of serenity and vibrancy. These beaches not only provide incredible photo opportunities but also offer a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the state. So, if you’re chasing sunsets and looking for the perfect Instagram shot, Odisha’s beaches will not disappoint. Get your camera ready, and let the stunning landscapes of Odisha capture your heart and your feed.
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