Odisha is a place where many unknown destinations are still hidden. You will find a beautiful blend of nature, culture and history in every corner here. Not only popular tourist destinations, there are also some lesser-known but very beautiful places where you can experience solitude and the real Odisha. If you want to discover the hidden gems of Odisha, then below we describe top 7 lesser-known places to visit in Odisha that you should visit at least once.
Top 7 Lesser-Known Places To Visit In Odisha, Overview
Are you looking to travel to a different, somewhat less crowded location in Odisha? Then, in this post, we show you some of Odisha’s lesser-known but breathtakingly gorgeous locations, (Top 7 Lesser-Known Places To Visit In Odisha) which are ideal for tourists who enjoy adventure.
01.Daringbadi – The Kashmir of Odisha
Daringbari is a picturesque place in the Kandhamal district, surrounded by dense hills, which is famous for its cool weather and lush greenery. Also known as the ‘Kashmir of Odisha‘, this hilly area fascinates travelers with its coffee plantations, misty mornings, and tribal culture.
Location: Kandhamal district, Odisha.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Jeypore Airport (~110 km).
- By Train: Rourkela Railway Station (~160 km) with onward road transport.
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Bhubaneswar and Berhampur.
Things to Do:
- Let’s have a cup of hot, fresh coffee and stroll through the sprawling coffee gardens.
- Visit the waterfalls at Putudi and Belghar to find peace in nature; it will energy you up on.
- Engage with the local tribal members and observe how they create beautiful items by hand.
- Of course, don’t forget to take pictures of the stunning Eastern Ghats mountain views.
02.Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Natureโs Hidden Treasure
Are you a wildlife enthusiast? If so, Debrigad Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect location for you. Dense green forests, a wide range of animals, and the chance to see amazing birds – all combine to create an amazing experience that fosters a strong bond with the natural world.
Location: Bargarh district, Odisha.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Veer Surendra Sai Airport, Jharsuguda (~50 km).
- By Train: Bargarh Railway Station (~18 km).
- By Road: Accessible via local buses and taxis from Bargarh town.
Things to Do:
- To see birds, deer, and leopards, you can take a guided jungle safari.
- Take in the beauty of nature as you walk over the lush green forest paths.
- Capture stunning images of various wildlife and colorful birds.
Also Read:9 Best Romantic Places In Odisha To Explore With Your Partner
03.Ratnagiri – The Buddhist Heritage Site
The beautifully preserved monasteries and stupas of Ratnagiri offer a fascinating glimpse into our ancient Buddhist culture. Who are history lovers and spiritual seekers they must visit this place in Odisha in at least one time.
Location: Jajpur district, Odisha.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (120 km).
- By Train: Jajpur Keonjhar Road station (~15 km).
- By Road: Easily accessible via Jajpur and surrounding towns.
Things to Do:
- Explore the beautifully carved Buddhist ruins of the old days.
- Lalitgiri and Udayagiri are also nearby, you can visit them together if you want.
- There is a different peace to walking in this quiet environment full of history.
04.Satkosia Tiger Reserve – The Untamed Wild
Satkoshiya Tiger Reserve is a beautiful place where you can go boating, go on safari through the jungle, and if you are lucky, you will see tigers, elephants and various types of birds. This reserve is the perfect place to spend some time in the lap of nature.
Location: Spanning Angul and Boudh districts, Odisha.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (160 km).
- By Train: Angul Railway Station (~30 km).
- By Road: Connected by buses and taxis from Angul.
Things to Do:
- To see tigers and other wildlife, take on jungle safaris.
- Enjoy a beautiful Mahanadi River boat ride.
- Watching birds for endangered species, such as the grey-headed fish eagle.
- Trek through valleys as well as gorges covered with forests.
Also Read:9 Hidden Places Near Bhubaneswar Must Visit in This Monsoon
05.Harishankar – The Scenic Temple Town
Harishankar is filled with the beauty of its twin temples, waterfalls and serene hills, which easily captivate the minds of tourists. It is an ideal destination for those who find a little peace and spirituality amidst nature. Especially for those who want a little solitude and peace of mind during their travels, Harishankar is perfect in a word.
Location: Balangir district, Odisha.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur (~200 km).
- By Train: Kantabanji Railway Station (~20 km).
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Balangir and Kantabanji.
Things to Do:
- See the hilltop temples of Harishankar and Nrusinghanath.
- Relax at the nearby natural pools and waterfalls.
- Explore the nearby forests on walking.
- Take pleasure the peaceful rural atmosphere.
06.Taptapani – The Hot Spring Paradise
Many people think that Taptapani’s natural hot springs have medicinal benefits. This location is a true haven of peace, surrounded by serene tribal villages and verdant forests. If you want to spend time in nature, Taptapani is definitely a great place to go.
Location: Ganjam district, Odisha.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (180 km).
- By Train: Berhampur Railway Station (~90 km).
- By Road: Accessible by buses and taxis from Berhampur and nearby towns.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy a relaxing bath in the hot springs.
- Discover the surrounding picturesque hills and valleys.
- Discover the food and culture of the tribe.
- See the natural landscapes and temples in the area.
Also Read:Nandankanan Zoological Park |Timings, Entry Fees, Full Details
07.Chandragiri – Mini Tibet in Odisha
Chandragiri is a calm and beautiful hill station in southern Odisha. It is famous for its Tibetan refugee settlement and beautiful Buddhist monasteries. Surrounded by dense jungles and verdant valleys, this place offers a blend of Tibetan culture and natural beauty.
Location: Gajapati district, Odisha.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (270 km).
- By Train: Berhampur Railway Station (~130 km).
- By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Berhampur and Paralakhemundi.
Things to Do:
- visit the magnificent Padmasambhava Mahavihara Monastery.
- Taste the real Tibetan cuisine and culture.
- Take a guided trek through the beautiful countryside.
- Attend the Tibetan community’s cultural festivals.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to visit these lesser-known places in Odisha?
The ideal time is between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
2. Are these destinations suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, most places are safe and welcoming for solo travelers.
3. Is local transportation easily available at these spots?
While some places have limited local transport, taxis and buses are generally available with prior planning.
4. Can I find accommodations near these places?
Major towns nearby offer comfortable stays, but booking in advance is advised for remote areas.
5. Are there any local festivals or events to experience?
Yes, many tribal villages and towns celebrate vibrant festivals worth timing your visit around.
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Hey there! I’m Santu Chakraborty and I’m not your typical traveler. By day, I wrangle circuits and solve electrical mysteries as an engineer, but my true passion lies in exploring the world and sharing those experiences with you. For the past five years, this blog has been my canvas, where I paint stories of adventure, practical travel tips, and cultural insights to ignite your wanderlust. So, come join me on my journeys and discover the magic that awaits just beyond the horizon!
by Santu Chakraborty 