Planning a trip to Odisha's hill stations? While Odisha may not have snow-covered peaks like some northern states, it offers a collection of beautiful hill destinations surrounded by lush forests, waterfalls, valleys, and tribal culture. From peaceful retreats and scenic trekking trails to spiritual landmarks and wildlife, these hill stations promise memorable experiences for every traveler.
Here are some of the best hill stations in Odisha that deserve a place on your travel itinerary.
# DaringbadiOften referred to as the Kashmir of Odisha, Daringbadi is one of the state's most popular hill stations. Nestled amidst pine forests, rolling hills, waterfalls, and coffee plantations, it is an ideal destination for honeymooners, photographers, and nature lovers. The pleasant climate and picturesque landscapes make it a perfect escape from city life.
Visitors can enjoy trekking, birdwatching, jungle safaris, and breathtaking sunrise and sunset views from nearby viewpoints. The region is also known for its coffee, black pepper, and spice plantations, adding to its unique charm.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
What to Expect: Misty hills, cool weather, pine forests, coffee plantations, and scenic viewpoints.
Top Attractions:
Daringbadi Waterfall
Hill View Park
Coffee and Pepper Plantations
Pine Forest
How to Reach: Daringbadi is approximately 247 km from Bhubaneswar. The nearest railway station is Berhampur, around 120 km away, from where taxis and buses are readily available.
Nearby Places: Hill View Park, Daringbadi Waterfall, coffee estates, and nearby valleys.
# MahendragiriMahendragiri is one of Odisha's most scenic mountain destinations, famous for its mythological importance and breathtaking natural beauty. Believed to be associated with the Mahabharata, this hill station is dotted with ancient temples, lush meadows, and dense forests rich in biodiversity.
Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy trekking through the Eastern Ghats, while pilgrims visit its sacred temples throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
What to Expect: Ancient temples, panoramic mountain views, trekking routes, and rich mythology.
Top Attractions:
Mahendragiri Peak
Bhima Temple
Yudhishthira Temple
Kunti Temple
Shiva Temple
Burakhat Pass
Jalada River
How to Reach: Located about 56 km from Paralakhemundi and approximately 125 km from Berhampur.
Nearby Places: Mythological temples, scenic valleys, and trekking trails.
# TaptapaniTaptapani is a peaceful hill destination best known for its natural sulfur hot springs, believed to possess therapeutic properties. Surrounded by forests and rolling hills, it is a perfect retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Besides its famous hot springs, visitors can explore nearby tribal villages, enjoy traditional tribal performances, and witness stunning sunrise views over the hills.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
What to Expect: Natural hot springs, forest landscapes, tribal culture, and peaceful surroundings.
Top Attractions:
Sulfur Hot Springs
Taptapani Deer Park
Tribal Villages
Gandahati Waterfall
How to Reach: Located about 50 km from Berhampur with regular taxi and bus services.
Nearby Places: Deer Park, Gandahati Waterfall, and tribal settlements.
# DhenkanalDhenkanal beautifully blends history, spirituality, and nature. Surrounded by hills, forests, waterfalls, and wildlife, it is one of Odisha's oldest towns and a favorite destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and pilgrims.
Its ancient temples, wildlife sanctuary, and scenic viewpoints provide the perfect combination of cultural heritage and outdoor adventure.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
What to Expect: Ancient temples, wildlife, scenic hills, trekking, and rich cultural traditions.
Top Attractions:
Kapilash Temple
Kapilas Wildlife Sanctuary
Mahima Gadi
Saptasajya
How to Reach: Around 99 km from Bhubaneswar, well connected by both road and rail.
Nearby Places: Saptasajya Hills, Mahima Gadi, and Joranda.
# ChandragiriPopularly known as Mini Tibet of Odisha, Chandragiri is famous for its Tibetan settlements, peaceful monasteries, and breathtaking mountain scenery. The serene environment, colorful Buddhist architecture, and lush forests make it one of Odisha's most unique hill stations.
Nature walks, monastery visits, photography, and shopping for Tibetan handicrafts are among the top activities here.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
What to Expect: Tibetan culture, Buddhist monasteries, tranquil landscapes, and cool mountain weather.
Top Attractions:
Padmasambhava (Jirang) Monastery
Tibetan Settlements
Forest Trails
Chandragiri Elephant Sanctuary
How to Reach: Approximately 90 km from Berhampur by road.
Nearby Places: Tibetan villages, monasteries, handicraft centers, and fruit orchards.
# Dumuriput HillsLocated between Koraput and Sunabeda at an elevation of nearly 1,000 meters, Dumuriput Hills is a peaceful destination known for its green valleys, rocky landscapes, and spiritual significance. The area attracts nature lovers, trekkers, and pilgrims alike.
One of its major highlights is the state's tallest kneeling Hanuman statue, while nearby waterfalls and trekking trails offer unforgettable views.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
What to Expect: Scenic valleys, hiking trails, waterfalls, caves, and religious landmarks.
Top Attractions:
Duduma Waterfalls
Jagannath Temple, Koraput
Scenic Rock Formations
Trekking Trails
Hanuman Statue
How to Reach: Located around 25 km from Koraput.
Nearby Places: Duduma Waterfalls and Jagannath Temple.
# Deomali HillsStanding at approximately 1,672 meters, Deomali is the highest mountain peak in Odisha and one of the state's most breathtaking hill destinations. Surrounded by the Eastern Ghats, it is famous for its mist-covered hills, lush forests, waterfalls, and adventure activities.
Deomali has become increasingly popular among trekkers, campers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts looking for spectacular sunrise views and peaceful surroundings.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
What to Expect: Rolling hills, camping, trekking, scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and cool weather.
Top Attractions:
Deomali Peak
Sunrise Viewpoint
Mountain Trekking Trails
Forest Camping
Nearby Tribal Villages
How to Reach: About 70 km from Koraput and easily accessible by road.
Nearby Places: Koraput town, Duduma Waterfalls, and tribal villages.