About Daringbadi
Daringbadi, often called the "Kashmir of Odisha", is a picturesque hill station located in the Kandhamal district at an altitude of about 3,000 feet above sea level. Famous for its cool climate, pine forests, coffee gardens, and misty hills, Daringbadi is a rare gem in eastern India and a perfect retreat for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and riders.
The town derives its name from a British officer named Daring Saheb who was stationed here during colonial times. Today, Daringbadi is known for its peaceful ambiance, rich tribal culture, and landscapes that look straight out of a postcard — with valleys, waterfalls, and forests stretching endlessly.
Chilling Climate & Natural Beauty
Daringbadi is one of the very few places in Odisha where temperatures drop below 0°C in winter, with occasional frost and fog making mornings magical. The pine forests sway with cold winds, and coffee plantations spread across the hills bring a fresh aroma to the air.
Sunrises here are particularly beautiful — golden light breaking through layers of fog covering the valleys. Whether you're trekking, riding, or sipping tea from a roadside stall, the calmness of Daringbadi leaves a lasting impact.
Places to Explore in Daringbadi
- Daringbadi Hill View Point – Offers panoramic views of the hills, sunrise, and valley mist.
- Coffee & Spice Plantations – Take guided walks through Odisha's organic coffee farms and black pepper vines.
- Lover’s Point – A scenic picnic area beside a small stream, great for couples and groups.
- Hill Park Eco-Retreat – A well-maintained nature park perfect for families and casual strolls.
- Midubanda Waterfall – A short ride and trek from town, this fall flows down the rocks into a forested basin.
Tribal Culture & Local Life
Daringbadi is home to various tribal communities, especially the Kandha tribe, who live in harmony with nature. Riders can often see colorful weekly markets, bamboo houses, traditional farming, and forest-based livelihoods.
Local food is a must-try — rice, millets, chicken curry, forest honey, and turmeric-based dishes. Tourists also love taking home organic turmeric (famous across India), coffee beans, and handmade tribal crafts as souvenirs.
Ride Experience & Routes
The ride to Daringbadi is a dream — filled with hairpin bends, forest canopies, cool breezes, and hilltop views. Most bikers take the route via Phulbani or Berhampur. Roads are mostly well-maintained, and traffic is minimal, allowing riders to cruise freely and soak in the scenery.
Biking Brothers Odisha riders often choose Daringbadi for winter tours, hill camping, and photography. The chilly air and warm campfires make it a top pick for overnight stays.
How to Reach
Daringbadi is around 250 km from Bhubaneswar and 120 km from Berhampur. Bikers can ride via Bhanjanagar → Daringbadi or Phulbani route. Bus and private taxi services also run from nearby towns. Petrol stations are available in the town, but it's advised to fuel up before climbing the final hill stretch.
Best Time to Visit
The best season to visit is from November to February, when Daringbadi becomes misty, cold, and magical. Summers are mild but ideal for trekking. Monsoons offer green views but make the trails slippery, so caution is advised.
Conclusion: A Cool Escape in Warm Odisha
Daringbadi is a rare hill station that combines cold weather, tribal warmth, and scenic views — all in one. It’s the perfect ride destination to beat the heat, recharge your soul, and experience the lesser-known side of Odisha’s natural treasure. Whether you’re a rider, photographer, couple, or family — Daringbadi welcomes all with open skies and pine-scented winds.