Odisha is generally famous for its temples and beaches, but of late Daringbadi, a beautiful hill station in the state is also attracting people. What is it about this place, because of which it is called ‘Kashmir of Odisha’. To know this, you have to be familiar with the charming climate and hilly attractions of this hill station.
When a friend of mine planned to visit Daringbadi, I had a feeling there would be nothing but sea and sand. But in Daringbadi, situated at an altitude of three thousand feet above sea level, I was surprised to see the dense forests of deodar, coffee plantations and beautiful valleys. It felt as if I am present in some area of Kashmir. Perhaps that is why it is called ‘Kashmir of Odisha’. Actually, Daringbadi is situated in the Kandhamal district of Odisha amidst pine forests and valleys. When we reached this place, we were greeted by the melodious chirping of birds, the silence of the dense forest and the lush green valley. Here the Doluri river flows in the valley and during monsoon it forms many waterfalls, which look exactly as if an artist has carved pictures of river, mountains and trees on canvas. This unique confluence of forest and river will be found only at a distance of two kilometres from Daringbadi. The Doluri river flows through small and big rocks, so this place is also a great picnic spot. Coffee Plantation The coffee plantation spread over 45 acres adds to the beauty of this hill station. In this, tall silver oak trees and black pepper plants look very attractive. The feeling of walking through miles of coffee plantations and standing among pepper plants is unique in itself. You never know when your time will pass after coming here. If you want, you can see the butterfly park here.
Which is specially designed for butterflies. Seeing the colourful butterflies here, all the tiredness will go away.
Enjoy paragliding
Popularly known as Eco-Village, Belghar village is the main attraction here, which is situated on the hill. One can see the view of whole Daringbadi from here. This place is surrounded by forest and the mountains here are high and low, so it is also a better spot for paragliding. You can spend a night here at Nature Camp. If you love wildlife, then definitely visit Belghar Sanctuary. There are many wild animals here, especially elephants. There are many flora and fauna here.
What else to see
Not only Daringbadi, there are many places to visit around it, such as Mandasaru Kuti. If you speak loudly here, then your voice comes back after colliding with the mountains. Will try and see. You can go to Lover’s Point or see Madhubanda and Badangiya Falls. The place is full of different types of trees and flowers. Stay there for some time, you will definitely feel a connection with nature. There are eco home resorts to stay in and around Daringbadi where you can stay.
If going
You can travel to Daringbadi any time. To reach here, you have to take a train till Berhampur, which is 125 km from Daringbadi. From here one can reach the hill station in three hours by private vehicle. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport, which is 246 kilometers away. You can travel further by taking a bus from here.
