The land of Odisha permeating an amazing culture and breathtakingly beautiful places risks being missed by travellers in search of something off the beaten path. Tourists usually go to the same spots, but many offbeat places in Odisha are as good or even better than the usual crowded ones. These places will give you the entire explorer feeling. Whether it is trekking through isolated beaches, experiencing the thrill of exploration in ancient caves and waterfalls, or simply trying to go tribal like the Odishen, Odisha’s offbeat places awaken the adventure in you and present an experience unlike any other.
6 Best Offbeat Places In Odisha: Adventure Calling
Odisha’s backcountry is becoming more popular with tourists because of the unique natural beauty and rich cultural diversity of the offbeat places in Odisha. These hidden treasures leave an imprint of the mark, and awaken the unexplored parts of the road that have not been travelled. Here are some of the best offbeat places in Odisha that you must explore:
1. Chilika Lake
Situated on the eastern coastline of Odisha, Chilika Lake possesses a unique charm that is beyond verbal expression and must be seen to be believed by visitors of all kinds. Chilika Lake is certainly one of the most enchanting offbeat places in Odisha. The size of this beautiful brackish water reservoir with its mighty 1,100 square kilometres is the subject of appreciation by Ramsar sites and the UNESCO World Heritage tourists who greatly value its extraordinarily rich biodiversity.
Use a boat to enjoy the serenity of the water. Look for transient birds, and smile toward friendly dolphins and those rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Interact with the local fishing communities to get inside the normalities of their routines. You will experience their life and peculiarities in a unique and enjoyable way.
Location: Chilika Lake
Fee: None
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
Must Read: Tourist Places In Odisha
2. Daringbadi
Though in the south of the green and fragrant Eastern Ghats, there is another gem hiding the offbeat places in Odisha and this is Daringbadi. It guarantees a haven from big-crowded cities. Famously known as “Odisha’s Kashmir”, it doesn’t take much effort to imagine yourself away in this picturesque place to which magnificent landscapes, numerous waterfalls, and a pleasant climate have already invited you.
Visit Putudi Waterfalls, the magical place where charming surroundings of the rock and waterfall combine to produce an amazing spectacle. Take a walk through the greenest forests you can find and notice tons of species of flora and fauna. Then progress directly to the very core of the local Kondh tribal culture where they show you the traditional way of living they’ve had for centuries. From natural splendour to cultural heritage, Daringbadi indeed is an outright temptation for nature enthusiasts who would like to escape the civilised world to the outback of nature.
Location: Daringbadi
Fee: None
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
3. Deomali
Facing the Koraput district, Deomali is a hidden marvel that promises to enchant and entertain every wandering visitor. This unusual place is also known for its beautiful mountain ranges, virgin forests, and the otherworldly Deomali Hill and Orange Valley. Deomali is truly a hidden treasure and one of the best offbeat places in Odisha.
Discover the area of Orange Valley, where lines of orange tree rows give the panorama the vibrant orange colour which, in turn, vividly highlights the surrounding green shade. This wonder of nature attracts nature photographers and all those who search for the unique and visually attractive in life. Deomali is a real treasure for nature lovers and also for people who hunt for peaceful solitude surrounded by wonderful nature.
Location: Deomali
Fee: None
Best time to visit: October to March
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4. Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary
Certainly one of the most rewarding offbeat places in Odisha, Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary is a favourite wildlife haven for visitors who love different forms and types of nature. This picturesque haven offers a unique opportunity to encounter over 700 species of plants alongside some of the most fascinating wild animals such as leopards, sloth bears, and several bird species. Immerse yourself in a guided safari or a ride through the complex forests where you can see the great elephants, lovely spotted deer, and, perhaps, the rare animals.
The excitement of locating the quintessential giants in their natural ground is an experience you will never forget. Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary is a real bird’s paradise for all nature and wild animal lovers, giving a quiet retreat from the modern world and the best chance to have harmony with all the wild animals and to enjoy the scenery of pure Odisha’s jungles.
Location: Balasore district
Fee: INR 500 per person
Timings: 5 am to 7 am / 4 pm to 6:30 pm
5. Taptapani Hot Springs
Ganjam district of Odisha, Taptapani Hot water is the paradise waiting for someone seeking a soothing experience that is unlike any other. Among the wonderful parts about these natural hot springs is they are surrounded by green plants and rockers which result in a very calm and quiet atmosphere. Taptapani Hot Springs is a unique and rejuvenating addition to the list of offbeat places in Odisha.
Experience the living lava that rumbles under your feet, as you step into the beautiful natural rock pools, or simply relish peace and relaxation, letting the gentle stream touch your soul. For those who are looking forward to detaching themselves from the problems of life, Taptapani Hot Springs is the right place to leave them happy and relaxed both mentally and physically.
Location: Taptapani Hot Springs
Fee: Free
Timings: Open 24 hours
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6. Bhitarkanika National Park
Another foot-fun in Odisha is the Bhitarkanika National Park which must be seen. Sitting on the coastline of the state, which is renowned for navigation, Bhitarkanika National Park offers a truly unique and memorable wildlife experience. Abutting the water body, the mangrove ecosystem hosts exclusive occupants like the highly threatened saltwater crocodile, migration pathways that migratory birds travel in for feed, and female Olive Ridley turtles which use the area for egg laying.
Location: Bhitarkanika National Park
Fee: INR 20 for locals, INR 1000 for tourists
Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
Further Read: Offbeat Places In Puri
These offbeat places in Odisha, which are beyond the normal, are like a true haven and one has a real chance of exploring the state’s natural and cultural assets. Be it the adventure bug or the lust for all-natural surroundings, these places will impress even the most discerning traveller. Now that we have a list of offbeat tourist places in Odisha, make sure you head to these spots on your trip to Odisha to experience thrill, adventure, and fun.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Offbeat Places In Odisha
What is the best time to visit these offbeat places in Odisha?
October to March are the months to enjoy Odisha’s offbeat destinations to the fullest.
Which hill station is considered the most famous offbeat places in Odisha?
Daringbadi is considered the most famous offbeat place in Odisha.
Are there any guided tours available to explore the offbeat places in Odisha?
There are purchasable tours available to explore these offbeat places in Odisha, offering safety and delightful memories.
Are there accommodations available?
Eco resorts, Homestays, or government guest houses are available with the basic amenities.
What are the activities one can indulge while exploring offbeat places in Odisha?
Hiking, safaris, bird watching, and boating are some of the activities one can indulge in while exploring offbeat places in Odisha.
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