Daringbadi, often called the 'Kashmir of Odisha,' is a charming hill station located in the Kandhamal district of Odisha. Nestled amidst lush green hills and coffee plantations, it attracts tourists seeking a cool climate and serene landscapes. This route is popular among weekend travelers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers from nearby cities and states.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Daringbadi, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best times to visit, ensuring a hassle-free journey to this beautiful destination.

Getting from Major Cities to Daringbadi – Main Options

Train

While Daringbadi does not have a railway station, nearby stations serve as key transit points for travelers opting for train travel. This mode is practical for those coming from major cities like Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, or Kolkata.

• Nearest railway stations:

  The closest stations are Brahmapur (approx 110 km) and Rairakhol (approx 90 km). Brahmapur is well connected to major cities via express trains like the Howrah–Chennai Mail and Puri–Bhubaneswar Shatabdi.

• Travel time and ticket cost:

  From Bhubaneswar to Brahmapur, trains take around 5–6 hours, with sleeper class tickets costing between ₹150–₹400. From Brahmapur, road travel to Daringbadi takes about 3 hours by bus or taxi.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Multiple trains run daily to Brahmapur, including superfast and passenger trains. Booking via IRCTC is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons like winter.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Brahmapur station, shared taxis and buses are available but can be infrequent. Pre-booking a private cab or using Ola cabs (where available) ensures a comfortable onward journey.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during monsoon months (July–September) by train if possible, as landslides and delays are common near hilly areas.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Daringbadi, especially from nearby cities like Brahmapur, Berhampur, and Bhubaneswar. Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private operators run regular services.

• Key bus routes:

  Direct buses run from Brahmapur and Berhampur to Daringbadi via NH59 and SH17. The route covers scenic hills and coffee plantations.

• Travel time and fares:

  The bus journey from Brahmapur to Daringbadi takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹200 depending on the bus type.

• Bus types and frequency:

  Both ordinary and deluxe buses operate on this route. Deluxe buses are less frequent but offer better comfort and fewer stops.

• Booking tips:

  Tickets can be booked at OSRTC counters or via online portals. Boarding early in the morning is advisable to avoid crowded buses and enjoy daylight views.

• Road conditions and stops:

  The roads are generally well-maintained, but some stretches can be narrow and winding. There are small dhabas and rest stops en route for refreshments.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Daringbadi is an excellent option for travelers who prefer flexibility and want to explore the scenic route at their own pace. The roads connect well with major highways.

• Recommended route:

  From Bhubaneswar, take NH16 towards Brahmapur, then NH59 to Daringbadi. The total distance is about 280 km, taking roughly 7–8 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions:

  Most of the highways are in good condition, but the last 40 km towards Daringbadi involve hilly terrain with sharp bends. Drive cautiously, especially during rains.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Fuel stations are available in Brahmapur and along NH59. Popular rest stops include roadside eateries serving local Odia cuisine.

• Best time to drive:

  Start early morning to avoid city traffic and reach before dusk. Avoid night driving on hilly stretches due to limited street lighting.

• Car rentals:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Bhubaneswar or Brahmapur through providers like Zoomcar or local agencies. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for hill driving.

Flight

The nearest airport to Daringbadi is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. Flights are a practical choice for travelers coming from distant cities or other states.

• Airport to Daringbadi distance:

  Bhubaneswar airport is approximately 280 km from Daringbadi, requiring a 7–8 hour road journey by taxi or bus.

• Flight connectivity:

  Bhubaneswar is well connected with daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Chennai, operated by airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.

• Onward travel options:

  From the airport, pre-booked taxis or rental cars are recommended for the long drive. Shared buses to Brahmapur are available but less convenient.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights well in advance during peak tourist seasons (October to February) to secure better fares and availability.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flight schedules may be affected during monsoon due to weather conditions; check for updates before booking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers to Daringbadi, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains to Brahmapur or airline websites for Bhubaneswar flights. Early booking helps avoid last-minute price hikes and ensures availability.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Aim to reach Brahmapur or Bhubaneswar by early morning or noon to have ample time for the onward journey to Daringbadi.

• Arrange onward transport:

  Pre-book a taxi or check bus schedules from Brahmapur to Daringbadi. Private taxis offer flexibility and comfort, especially if traveling in a group.

• Pack essentials for hill travel:

  Carry water, snacks, and light warm clothing as temperatures can drop in the evenings. Also, keep a physical map or offline GPS handy due to patchy network coverage.

• Start the road journey early:

  Begin your drive or bus trip to Daringbadi by mid-morning to avoid night travel on hilly roads and enjoy scenic views during daylight.

• Confirm accommodation in advance:

  Book hotels or guesthouses in Daringbadi ahead of time, especially during peak season, to secure the best options.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on hilly roads:

  Drive cautiously on narrow bends and avoid overtaking on curves. Use low gear while descending to prevent brake failure.

• Food and water:

  Stick to bottled water and eat at well-reviewed eateries. Local cuisine is delicious but try to avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official platforms like IRCTC and OSRTC for train and bus tickets to avoid scams. For taxis, prefer reputed operators or app-based services.

• Local commute in Daringbadi:

  Auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps are common for short distances. Walking is also pleasant due to the compact town layout.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon. Carry a small first-aid kit for emergencies.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause landslides and roadblocks. Check weather forecasts and local news before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Daringbadi is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers can be warm but still comfortable compared to plains, while monsoons bring heavy rainfall and slippery roads.

Planning your travel during the off-peak season can mean fewer crowds but be prepared for unpredictable weather and limited services.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Dussehra and Diwali due to heavy traffic and accommodation shortages.

• Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light and cooler temperatures for road travel and sightseeing.

• Monsoon months (July–September) are best avoided due to frequent landslides and road closures in hilly areas.

• Winter months provide crisp weather and clear skies, ideal for nature walks and photography.

Arrival at Daringbadi & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Daringbadi, travelers are greeted by cool mountain air and lush greenery. The town is small but well-equipped with guesthouses, homestays, and hotels catering to various budgets.

Local transport includes shared jeeps and auto-rickshaws, which are convenient for visiting nearby attractions like the coffee plantations, waterfalls, and tribal villages. The town center has small markets selling local handicrafts and fresh produce.

For late arrivals, it is advisable to pre-book accommodation and arrange for pickup, as public transport options reduce significantly after sunset.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Daringbadi depends on your starting point, but combining train travel to Brahmapur followed by a private taxi or bus ride is a popular and cost-effective choice. This option balances comfort, affordability, and scenic road travel.

With proper planning and awareness of local conditions, travelers can confidently embark on their journey to Daringbadi and enjoy the serene beauty and cool climate of this unique hill station in Odisha.