Short answer
The main safety considerations for Odisha travel are cyclone season on the coast (roughly June-October), swimming only in lifeguard-patrolled beach zones, following forest department permit and timing rules in wildlife reserves, and asking consent before photographing people in tribal areas.
Cyclone season
The Bay of Bengal coast, including Puri, Gopalpur and Chandipur, is exposed to tropical cyclones mainly between June and October; checking India Meteorological Department advisories before and during a coastal trip in this window is sensible practice.
Sea safety
Currents vary significantly along Odisha's beaches, and swimming should be limited to marked, lifeguard-monitored zones rather than the full length of any beach, particularly at Puri where the working beach extends well beyond the patrolled stretch.
Wildlife zone rules
Similipal, Bhitarkanika and Satkosia are government-controlled reserves with permit requirements, entry timings and, in Similipal's case, a seasonal closure during the monsoon; these rules should be confirmed close to the travel date rather than assumed.
Tribal-area etiquette
In southern Odisha's tribal regions, photographing individuals requires explicit consent each time, and some markets prohibit photography altogether; travelling with a local guide reduces the risk of unintentionally causing offence.
General travel practicalities
Carry basic medical supplies for longer wildlife or tribal-region legs where facilities are limited, keep drinking water on hand during temple-town walking in warmer months, and share your day's route with your driver or hotel when travelling to remote areas.
