Discover Daringbadi: An Offbeat Odisha Gem

If you’re craving a peaceful escape into the hills without flying to the north, then let me introduce you to Daringbadi—a little-known gem tucked away in the heart of Odisha. Often nicknamed the “Kashmir of Odisha,” this quiet hill station is a delightful mix of pine forests, coffee plantations, waterfalls, and cool weather that might just surprise you with its occasional frost in winter!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to this enchanting hill station. From how to get there and what to do, to where to stay and when to visit, I’ve got you covered.

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Table of Contents

Getting to Daringbadi

The journey to Daringbadi is just as beautiful as the destination itself. It is located in Phulbani district of Odisha.

By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 246 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a cab or hop on a bus. The drive takes around 6 hours, passing through scenic ghats and lush forests. The road is through hilly terrain once you exit Bhubaneshwar, so you can expect the journey to take longer with breaks.
By Train: The closest railway station is at Berhampur, approximately 120 kilometers from Daringbadi. Trains from major cities in India connect to Berhampur, and you can take a taxi or a local bus from there to complete the journey.
By Road: If you enjoy road trips, this route is a winner. Well-maintained roads lead to Daringbadi from cities like Bhubaneswar, Berhampur, and Phulbani. You can hire a cab or drive yourself. Expect rolling hills, hairpin bends, and plenty of photo ops along the way.

Odisha's Kashmir - Daringbadi — Odisha’s Kashmir – Daringbadi

Best Time to Visit

Daringbadi is an all-season destination, but each season brings a unique flavor.

Winter (October to February): This is peak tourist time. With temperatures ranging between 5°C to 15°C, you might even spot a layer of frost on the grass in early mornings. It’s a great time for trekking, sightseeing, and cozy bonfire nights.
Summer (March to June): Summers are mild here, with temperatures hovering around 20°C to 25°C. If you’re not a fan of the cold and want to enjoy a relaxed trip without the crowds, this is your window.
Monsoon (July to September): The region turns lush and green, with cascading waterfalls and vibrant flora. While some roads might be slippery, the beauty of Daringbadi in the rain is absolutely worth it.

Where to Stay

You’ll find plenty of accommodation options in Daringbadi, ranging from cozy homestays to eco-resorts.

Eco Retreats: Fancy glamping under the stars? Eco retreats in Daringbadi offer luxury tents equipped with modern amenities, and often throw in some cultural programs, bonfires, and nature walks for good measure.
Hotels & Guesthouses: There are several budget hotels and mid-range guesthouses that offer comfortable rooms and decent facilities. These are usually located in or around the town center.
Homestays: If you’re someone who loves immersive travel, go for a homestay. It’s a wonderful way to experience the local lifestyle, enjoy homemade food, and support the local community.

Things to Do and Places to Explore

There’s no shortage of things to do in Daringbadi. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure junkie, or a laid-back traveler, you’ll find something that suits your style.

Hill View Point: Start your day with a sunrise view from Hill View Point. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills covered in mist. The area is well-maintained with walkways and benches to relax. The park also features watchtowers, landscaped gardens, and a children’s play area, making it a great spot for families.
Nature Park: Opposite Hill View Park, this eco-park spans 4 hectares and is an educational and relaxing spot to learn about the region’s flora and fauna. This eco-park is ideal for families and kids. Divided into zones like a rose garden, butterfly park, and a section dedicated to medicinal plants, it’s both educational and serene.
Coffee & Pepper Plantations: Daringbadi is home to sprawling plantations, especially coffee and black pepper. Take a guided walk through these plantations, interact with local farmers, and sample some fresh produce. Managed by the Soil Conservation Department of Odisha, these plantations are spread over 45 hectares and are shaded by Silver Oak trees.
Pine Forest: Just a few kilometers outside town, approximately 3 kilometers south of Daringbadi, the Pine Forest is a great spot for quiet walks and photography. The tall trees, soft forest floor, and filtered sunlight make it a dreamy escape.
Midubanda Waterfall: Adventure awaits! Located about 18 km from the town, this waterfall is tucked away at the bottom of a flight of 150 steps. The climb is worth it for the refreshing spray and the chance to dip your toes in cool mountain water.
Belghar Wildlife Sanctuary: If you don’t mind a longer drive (about 2-3 hours), head to Belghar Sanctuary located approximately 120 kilometers from Daringbadi,. It’s home to elephants, deer, and various bird species, making it perfect his sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, deer, and various bird species. It’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and offers opportunities for guided safaris and treks.
Emu Farm: Yes, you read that right.A unique attraction, the Emu Farm is home to these large, flightless birds native to Australia. Daringbadi has a small Emu farm where you can see these fascinating flightless birds up close. A unique attraction, the Emu Farm is home to these large, flightless birds native to Australia. It’s a quick and fun stop, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

Offbeat Odisha - Daringbadi's waterfalls — Offbeat Odisha – Daringbadi’s waterfalls

Things to Do Beyond Sightseeing

Trekking & Nature Walks: The undulating terrain of Daringbadi is perfect for trekking. Whether it’s a short morning walk or a longer hike through the forests, you’ll find plenty of scenic trails.
Camping & Stargazing: Spend a night under the stars. The clear skies and cool nights make it an excellent spot for camping. Bring your own gear or book a package through your resort.
Local Cuisine Tasting: Don’t miss out on trying the local Odia cuisine. Simple, flavorful, and mostly organic, dishes like pakhala bhata, dalma, and bamboo shoot curry are a treat.
Cultural Interactions: Engage with the local tribes and communities. Visit local markets, attend a traditional dance performance if you get the chance, or just strike up a conversation with your host.

A Few Travel Tips

Pack warm clothes if you’re visiting in winter. It can get surprisingly chilly.
Carry good walking shoes for treks and walks.
Mobile network is patchy in some areas. Download offline maps.
Most places accept cash, so carry enough, especially if you’re venturing out of town.
Respect local customs and nature—leave no litter behind.

Final Thoughts

Daringbadi isn’t your run-of-the-mill tourist spot. It’s quiet, soulful, and refreshingly unspoiled. Whether you’re sipping hot chai by a bonfire, trekking through pine trails, or just soaking in the slow pace of life, this place promises memories that stay long after your trip ends.

So pack your bags, ditch the crowds, and head to Daringbadi—Odisha’s very own slice of paradise in the hills!

My Other Posts

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If you are looking for something in Sikkim, check Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir and Batasia Loop. If you are looking for some jungle safari read Gir Safari, or Bandipur Safari, feel blessed at Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple in Mysore.

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