Daringbadi, often called the 'Kashmir of Odisha', is a picturesque hill station located in the Kandhamal district of Odisha. Nestled amidst dense forests and rolling hills, it is a popular destination for nature lovers, honeymooners, and weekend travelers seeking respite from the plains.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Daringbadi, including train, bus, car, and flight options. Whether you are planning a peaceful retreat or an adventurous trip, you will find detailed travel tips and step-by-step plans to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Major Cities to Daringbadi – Main Options

By Train

Train travel to Daringbadi is indirect but feasible, with the nearest major railway stations well connected to big cities. From these stations, travelers usually take road transport to reach Daringbadi.

• Nearest railway stations:

  The closest stations to Daringbadi are Brahmapur (approx 110 km) and Rairakhol (approx 95 km). Brahmapur is well connected to major cities like Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam.

• Travel time and ticket cost:

  Trains from Bhubaneswar to Brahmapur take around 4-5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class. From Brahmapur, road travel to Daringbadi takes about 3-4 hours.

• Frequency and comfort:

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

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Brahmapur station, buses, taxis, and shared cabs are available. Prepaid taxis at the station are reliable; negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based cabs like Ola where available.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid monsoon months (July-September) for train travel due to occasional delays caused by rains and landslides in hilly areas near Daringbadi.

By Bus

Bus travel is a popular and economical way to reach Daringbadi, with direct and connecting services from nearby cities. Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private operators run buses frequently.

• Direct buses:

  OSRTC operates direct buses from Bhubaneswar and Brahmapur to Daringbadi, especially during tourist seasons. These buses usually take 6-8 hours from Bhubaneswar.

• Connecting routes:

  From Brahmapur or Phulbani, frequent buses and shared jeeps connect to Daringbadi. Phulbani is about 70 km away and serves as a transit hub.

• Ticket costs and comfort:

  Bus fares range from ₹150 to ₹300 depending on the type (ordinary or deluxe). Deluxe buses offer better comfort but may run less frequently.

• Road conditions:

  The roads from Brahmapur to Daringbadi via NH59 and SH17 are winding but well maintained. Expect slower travel during monsoon due to slippery patches.

• Timing tips:

  Early morning buses are advisable to avoid night travel on hilly roads. Booking tickets in advance during holidays is recommended.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Daringbadi offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic views at your own pace. The route is popular among weekend travelers and nature enthusiasts.

• Route details:

  From Bhubaneswar, take NH16 south towards Brahmapur, then NH59 and SH17 leading to Daringbadi. The total distance is about 280 km, taking approximately 7-8 hours.

• Road conditions:

  The highways are mostly in good condition, with smooth stretches near the plains and winding roads in the hills. Watch out for occasional potholes and livestock crossings near villages.

• 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:

  Daytime travel is safer due to narrow and curvy hill roads. Avoid driving after dusk, especially during monsoon.

• Car rentals:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Bhubaneswar or Brahmapur through providers like Zoomcar or local agencies. Ensure the vehicle is suitable for hilly terrain.

By Flight

Daringbadi does not have its own airport, but the nearest airports provide good connectivity to major Indian cities. Flights combined with road travel are the fastest option for distant travelers.

• Nearest airports:

  Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (approx 280 km) and Visakhapatnam Airport (approx 200 km) are the closest airports.

• Flight options:

  Bhubaneswar has daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. Visakhapatnam also connects well with major cities.

• From airport to Daringbadi:

  After landing, travelers can hire taxis or take buses to Daringbadi. Prepaid taxis are available at both airports; booking cabs via Ola or Uber is also possible in Bhubaneswar.

• Travel time and cost:

  The road journey from Bhubaneswar airport to Daringbadi takes 7-8 hours, while from Visakhapatnam it takes about 6-7 hours. Taxi fares range from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 depending on vehicle type.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights are frequent year-round, but booking early during winter holidays is advised due to tourist influx.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their trip to Daringbadi efficiently, combining train or flight with road transport.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains to Brahmapur or online portals for flights to Bhubaneswar or Visakhapatnam. Early booking ensures availability and better prices.

• Reach the nearest station or airport on time:

  Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush. Use local transport or prepaid taxis to reach the station or airport.

• Arrange road transport from Brahmapur or Bhubaneswar:

  Prebook taxis or check bus schedules to Daringbadi. Shared jeeps are economical but less comfortable for long journeys.

• Start road journey early in the day:

  Begin your drive or bus trip by morning to enjoy daylight and avoid night travel on hilly roads.

• Carry essentials for hill travel:

  Pack water, snacks, and light warm clothing, especially if traveling during winter or monsoon seasons.

• Confirm your accommodation in advance:

  Daringbadi has limited hotels and resorts; booking early helps avoid last-minute hassles.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on hill roads:

  Drive carefully on winding roads and avoid overtaking on blind curves. Use low gears while descending steep slopes.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and eat at trusted eateries. Local cuisine is delicious but try to avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for trains and official OSRTC websites or apps for bus tickets. For taxis, prefer prepaid counters or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging.

• Local commute in Daringbadi:

  Walking is common within the town. For nearby sightseeing, hire local taxis or shared jeeps available at the main market area.

• Luggage tips:

  Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon and warm clothes in winter. Roads can be bumpy, so secure your bags properly.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon months may cause landslides and roadblocks; check weather updates before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

Daringbadi is best visited during the cooler months when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. The summer months can be warm but still comfortable compared to plains.

Monsoon brings lush greenery but also risks of road disruptions. Plan your trip accordingly to avoid inconvenience.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Rath Yatra when transport can be crowded.

• Winter (October to February) offers cool temperatures and clear skies, ideal for sightseeing.

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

• Steer clear of night travel in monsoon due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.

Arrival at Daringbadi & What to Expect

On arrival, travelers are greeted by cool mountain air and scenic views of pine forests and valleys. The town is small but charming, with local markets and eateries offering Odia delicacies.

Local transport includes shared jeeps and taxis that can take you to nearby attractions like the Belaghara Waterfalls and coffee plantations. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to mid-range resorts, mostly clustered near the main market area.

For last-mile connectivity, prepaid taxis and auto-rickshaws are available. Booking cabs via local contacts or your hotel helps ensure fair pricing, especially during peak season or late arrivals.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Daringbadi depends on your starting point and travel preferences. For those coming from afar, flying into Bhubaneswar or Visakhapatnam followed by a taxi or bus ride offers the quickest access. Train travelers can enjoy a scenic road journey from Brahmapur.

Driving offers unmatched flexibility and the chance to explore the beautiful landscapes en route. With proper planning and adherence to seasonal tips, your trip to Daringbadi will be comfortable and memorable. Start planning confidently and get ready to experience the serene beauty of Odisha's hill station.