Odisha, a coastal state in India has always been a dream destination for traveler’s. This state has abundance of blessing from nature along with a very rich culture and tradition. Odisha boasts of more than 1000 temples, 11 beautiful and serene beaches, mesmerizing waterfalls, 19 wildlife sanctuaries and several other sites of historical importance. More often the tourist destinations of Odisha are known as the “Best kept secrets of India” and rightly so. Several beautiful tourist destinations of Odisha are still to be explored.
Puri, home to lord Shree Jagannath is undoubtedly the most sought tourist destination of Odisha. Places to visit in Puri witness millions of footfalls during the entire Year. However, there are several off-beat destinations which attracts lots of tourist to the state. A combination of self-searching, adventure and leisure and the open roads of the state welcomes tourists with open heart. Moreover, the hospitality of the people here amazes many tourists. Tourists love the backdrop of lush, unspoilt nature and get as close to tranquillity as one can get. It is home to some of the most ancient temples and tranquil beaches. The laidback state is a treasure house of reminiscent of a glorious past. Going beyond Bhubaneswar, Puri and Konark are virgin places and experiences waiting for those willing to hit the road on an adventurous trip. Here we bring a list of top 5 off beat destinations in Odisha
Deras Dam
Deras dam is a small, however beautiful dam close to capital city “Bhubaneswar”. Located on the out skirts of Bhubaneswar, it is a very popular picnic spot as well. Moreover, It is one of the top offbeat destinations of the state.
Deras dam lies at a distance of only 25 kilometres from Bhubaneswar. The main purpose behind building this dam was for irrigating the farm land of local villagers. It is located within the Chandaka elephant sanctuary. This very reason and the beautiful backdrop of the Chandaka sanctuary has popularized this place as one of the top picnic spots for the locals. A nature camp has been set here by the tourist department on a hilltop overlooking the dam. Three cottages located on a hillock make this nature camp and it is quite a popular accommodation option for tourists looking to spend a night at this place close to nature.
The dam is encompassed in complete tranquillity and makes for an extraordinary day long break. The plenitude of greenery, little hillocks, quiet waters and thin ways among the wild all make for a sight which is a rewarding for the eyes. If on a day trip to this place, you can also include few near by places which are worth a visit.
It is a bit difficult to reach this place as the roads leading to this place are not up to the mark. However a drive to this place in a private vehicle can be an adventure in itself.
Mandasaru, the silent valley
Popular as the “Silent valley of Odisha”, this place is in Kandhamal district of Odisha and is quite close to one of the most stunning tourist destinations of the state “Daringbadi”. Mandasaru has lately gained huge popularity as one of the best offbeat destinations of the state. This valley is guarded by 22 hills in a row which makes a stunning scene for onlookers. Dense tropical deciduous forest surrounds this beautiful valley and is one of the best kept secrets of Odisha tourism. The mesmerizing beauty, rich biodiversity and frequent weather changes makes it a perfect getaway place from the hustle and bustle of city life.
A beautiful nature camp has been set here as accommodation option for visiting tourists. Earlier it was a tourism Centre under OFSDP. However, looking at its success, night staying facilities were developed. Since then it has become one of the best nature camps in Odisha. A group of 19 woman who are a part of the ETG group manage this nature camp. This group not only provides room and catering service, but also work as local guides. It is one of the best places to experience local Odia cuisine along with some top class Odia hospitality.
Khandadhar waterfalls
This mesmerizing waterfall located in Sundargarh district, Odisha is one of the most beautiful waterfalls not only in the state but also in the entire country. The wilderness at Khandadhar, along with the echo of the chirping birds can be a treat for a tired soul. The shape of this waterfall is that of a sword, hence this name “Khandadhar”. Water falling from a height of 244 meters and then rolling over the rocky beds is a treat in itself for onlookers. This waterfall is surrounded with dense forest which adds to the beauty of this place. The forest here is abundantly gifted with large variety of flora and fauna which are unique to this place.
Reaching this place is an adventure in itself. Navigating through the dense forest can be quite challenging. Like most other waterfalls in Odisha, the best time to visit Khandadhar waterfall’s is from October to February. However one can visit this place all round the year. It is at a distance of 104 Kms from Rourkela and 132 Kms from Keonjhar. Hire a private vehicle to reach this place and this will ensure that you enjoy the scenic beauty enroute to this place to the most. However one has to walk the last one kilometre to reach this place. Once here, nature and adventure lovers can plan a trekking at “Tensa valley”.
Once in Odisha, we would recommend to visit these beautiful off-beat destinations and enjoy a memorable holiday and cherish for lifetime.
