The route
- 1Tara Tarini
- 2Nirmal Jhara
- 3Gopalpur
Trip details
This short trip shows a different side of Odisha around Berhampur, the silk city of the south. In two days you climb to the hilltop Tara Tarini shrine above the Rushikulya river, visit the sacred spring of Nirmal Jhara and end with a relaxed evening on Gopalpur beach. It is an easy, peaceful weekend that mixes faith, nature and the sea.
Trip at a glance
- Duration: 2 days / 1 night
- Route: Tara Tarini → Nirmal Jhara → Gopalpur
- Base: Berhampur (Brahmapur)
- Best time: October to February
- Difficulty: Easy (steps or ropeway at Tara Tarini)
- Ideal for: Families, pilgrims and weekend travellers
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Tara Tarini and Nirmal Jhara
- Morning: Drive from Berhampur to the Tara Tarini Temple near Purushottampur. The shrine sits on Kumari hill above the Rushikulya river. Climb the stone steps or take the ropeway to the top, and enjoy the wide river views.
- Afternoon: Continue to Nirmal Jhara near Khallikote, a sacred spring where clear water flows from the rocks into a temple tank. The shady grounds are good for a quiet break.
- Evening: Return to Berhampur. Explore the market for Berhampuri silk sarees and try local sweets.
Day 2: Gopalpur-on-Sea
- Morning: Drive to Gopalpur, a short trip from Berhampur. Walk on the wide golden beach and watch the fishing boats come in.
- Midday: See the old colonial-era buildings of this former port town and the lighthouse.
- Evening: Stay for sunset on the beach, then return to Berhampur for your onward journey.
Best time to visit
October to February brings pleasant weather and calm seas. The Chaitra festival at Tara Tarini (March–April) is the biggest celebration of the year and draws huge crowds, so plan carefully if you visit then. Summers are hot, and the monsoon can make the sea rough at Gopalpur.
How to reach
- By air: The nearest major airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar.
- By rail: Berhampur (Brahmapur) is a major railway station on the Howrah–Chennai line.
- By road: Berhampur is on the national highway from Bhubaneswar. Hire a cab in Berhampur for this circuit, as buses to the smaller spots are limited.
Where to stay
Berhampur has hotels for every budget and makes the best base. Gopalpur also has a few beach resorts if you want to spend the night by the sea.
Travel tips
- Visit Tara Tarini early in the day to avoid heat and long queues, especially on Tuesdays and festival days.
- Dress modestly and remove footwear at the temples.
- Do not swim at Gopalpur where the waves are strong; follow local warnings.
- Carry cash or UPI for small purchases, offerings and parking.
Add more to your trip
With an extra day, head inland to the hills of Gajapati with our Mahendragiri trip plan, or explore more places in Ganjam district.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Tara Tarini from Berhampur?
Tara Tarini is a short drive from Berhampur, near Purushottampur, and can easily be done in half a day.
Is there a ropeway at Tara Tarini?
Yes. Visitors can either climb the steps or use the ropeway to reach the hilltop temple.
Is Gopalpur beach safe for swimming?
The waves at Gopalpur can be strong. It is best to enjoy the beach from the shore and follow local safety advice.
Can this trip be done in one day?
It is possible but rushed. Two days let you enjoy each place at a relaxed pace.
Want help planning this trip? Message us on WhatsApp with your dates and group size, or fill in the “Plan this trip” form on this page, and we will suggest the best route, stay and transport.
