Are you planning to explore some offbeat destinations of Odisha? Then look no further, this blog is for you!

When the name ‘Odisha’ is uttered, the first things that come to our mind are destinations like Puri, the Jagannath Temple, and Konark, along with shining sea beaches in Puri. But there is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored beyond the well-trodden paths of Puri and Cuttack. In fact, from serene hill stations and old temples to natural untouched landscapes, Odisha is so much more than its major attractions. This lesser-known side of Odisha caters particularly well to those traveling for experience and some unheard stories.

In this blog post, we’ll be highlighting some of the best places to visit in Odisha that you simply can’t miss.

So, let’s go ahead and explore the unexplored beauty of this wonderful state!

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1. Daringbadi

Daringbadi, popularly known as the “Kashmir of Odisha,” is a picturesque hill station, nestled in the Kandhamal district of Odisha, India. At about 3,000 feet above sea level, it draws visitors with its beautiful valleys, green forests, and nice weather throughout the whole year. This hill spot gives people a quiet getaway in nature’s beauty.

Daringbadi has coffee farms, turmeric fields, and a rich local culture. Guests can go for hiking, set up camp, and check out nearby waterfalls. For those who want excitement or just to unwind, Daringbadi ranks among the top spots to visit in Odisha. It appeals to nature fans and anyone hoping to see the magic of Odisha’s hill towns. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Daringbadi is one of the best places to visit in Odisha for nature lovers and those looking to experience the charm of Odisha’s hill stations.

2. Koraput

In the heart of Odisha’s tribal land, Koraput offers untouched natural wonders. You can see the Duduma Waterfalls, browse tribal markets, and soak in the area’s deep cultural roots.

3. Gopalpur

Skip the crowded Puri Sea beach and headed towards Gopalpur Sea-shore, a small beach town with old-world charm. You’ll find a calm shore, an old lighthouse to explore, and tasty seafood by the sea. The beach is quite popular for its tranquil sunrises and mesmerizing sunsets. Photographers and nature enthusiasts love to flock here. Once a busy port when the British ruled, it now gives tourists a peaceful break from the daily life.

4. Raghurajpur

Raghurajpur is a heritage crafts village in the state of Orissa located in India, and it is famous for its very fine Pattachitra paintings and its traditional crafts. Raghurajpur ornate with artists who has very fine specialty in making Pattachitra paintings on fabric, palm leaves, and wooden items. Such paintings illustrate mythological stories, folklore, and cultural motifs. It is not just Pattachitra; the Raghurajpur artisan also makes many other traditional art forms like Tussar paintings, carvings, paper-mâché masks, carved from stone and wood.

Raghurajpur has become a point of interest and attraction in the global landscape concerning art for case studies and tourists. Raghurajpur’s rich artistic heritage and the dedication of its craftsmen have made it a cultural hub and a must-visit destination for those interested in traditional Indian art forms.

5. Baripada & Simlipal National Park

Baripada, known as the ‘Gateway to Simlipal’, is a beautiful town where history and nature meet. Visit Simlipal National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary and a tiger reserve in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha in India. Expanding an area of 2,750 square kilometres is popular for its superb biodiversity and dense woodlands. The park is an oasis of life, sheltering Royal Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, and guars.

In addition, it has more than 304 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. It has beautiful waterfalls Joranda, and Barehipani adding to the allure of nature. Thus, Simlipal National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

6. Satkosia Tiger Reserve

Satkosia Tiger Reserve of Odisha known for the rich biodiversity is an abode of tigers, leopards, elephants, and many types of birds. You will find here the beautiful Satkosia Gorge which has formed by the Mahanadi River cutting through the Eastern Ghats Mountain range. People who visit can witness the beauty of nature up close.

The visitors can go on jungle trips, hike, or watch birds. These activities let them get close to the area’s natural beauty. The reserve helps protect the many plants and animals that live in this untouched place.

7. Gahirmatha Beach

Gahirmatha Beach in Odisha is the biggest place where Olive Ridley Sea turtles lay eggs on the seashore. Each year, thousands of these endangered turtles come to the beach to bury their eggs in the sand. The beach is also home to a diverse range of marine life, making it a hotspot for nature tourists and animal lovers.

The clean water of the sea and green plants around the beach make the area more beautiful, attracting visitors from all around the world. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the nesting grounds of the Olive Ridley turtles and to preserve the delicate ecosystem of Gahirmatha Beach for future generations to enjoy.

8. Deomali

Nestled in the southern reaches of the Koraput district Deomali is a hidden treasure and one of the most offbeat places in Odisha. The place is renowned for its virgin forests, beautiful mountain ranges, and the unearthly Deomali Hill along with Orange Valley.

Explore the territory of Orange Valley, where lines of orange tree rows give the valley the vibrant orange colour which, in turn, vividly highlights the surrounding green shade. Deomali is a real treasure for nature lovers and for people who hunt for peaceful solitude surrounded by wonderful nature.

9. Bhitarkanika

This hidden gem of Odisha is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife photographers as the National Park offers a truly unique and memorable wildlife experience. Bhitarakanika is all about mangrove forests, crocodiles, and rare birds species. Here, one can explore the beauty of this incredible ecosystem via boat rides and trekking trails.

10. Chilika Lake’s Satpada

Chilika Lake is quite popular for Dolphins , but do you know that the Satpada village of Odisha offers a quieter gateway to this vast lagoon of Lake and Dolphins? It is the ideal place to watch the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins and enjoy a peaceful boat ride in an environment of serene tranquility.

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Conclusive Thoughts,

Odisha has a magical quality of enchanting people by creating travel destinations for every taste and preference imaginable. Be it peace, or adventure, or cultural immersion, one can find such off-beat destinations, which provide a refreshing change from the usual tourist-visited spots.

Now since we have a shortlist of offbeat travelling spots in Odisha, hop on to these best places to catch the next ride trip through Odisha and have that thrill and adventure fun.

So, pack your bags and explore the hidden treasures of Odisha!

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