Top 3 Offbeat Destinations in India
Odisha, a coastal state in India has always been popular destination for traveler’s. It’s rich culture and heritage along with a very ancient history has always attracted travellers from all over the world. Nature is at its apex best here and has blessed this state in abundance. Odisha boasts of more than 1000 ancient temples, 11 beautiful and tranquil beaches, amazing waterfalls, 19 wildlife sanctuaries and several other sites of historical importance. Several tourist spots of Odisha are yet to be explored. Hence the tourist destinations of Odisha are rightly called the “Best kept secrets of India”.
Although, Lord Shree Jagannath temple is the most sought tourist destination of the state, there are several other Places to visit in Puri which witness millions of footfalls all around the year. Moreover, there are several off-beat destinations in the state which attracts lots of tourist to the state. A combination of adventure, self-exploring and leisure along with the open roads of the state heartily welcomes tourists. To top it all, the hospitality of the people here is a surprise many tourists. People here truly believe in the saying “Atithi debo Bhabha” meaning “guests are nothing less than God”. Tourists love the backdrop of lush, unspoilt nature and get as close to the natur as one can get. It is home to some of the most ancient temples and beautiful beaches. This state is a treasure house of reminiscent of a glorious past. Going beyond the popular golden triangle i.e. Bhubaneswar, Puri and Konark, there are virgin places and surprises waiting for those willing to take on the road on an adventurous trip. Here is a list of top 3 off beat tourist spots of the state.
Deras Dam
Deras dam, is a small however beautiful dam which lies within close proximity of the capital city “Bhubaneswar”. Located on the out skirts of Bhubaneswar, it is a very popular picnic spot and a perfect spot for day long outing. Moreover, It regarded as one of the best offbeat destinations in Odisha.
Deras dam lies at a distance of only 25 kilometres from Bhubaneswar. The main purpose behind building this dam was for the irrigation of the farm land of local villagers. It has been built within the Chandaka elephant sanctuary. This very reason and the beautiful backdrop of the Chandaka sanctuary has popularized this place as one of the top picnic spots for the locals. A nature camp has been set here by the tourist department on a small hilltop overlooking the dam. Three cottages located on the small hilltop comprise of this nature camp. This has become a very popular accommodation option for tourists looking for a night stay at this place close to nature.
The dam is nestled in complete tranquillity and makes for an extraordinary day long break. The magnitude of greenery, small hillocks, calm waters and narrow ways among the wild all make for a sight which is a rewarding for the eyes. If on a day trip to this place, several nearby places like “Jhumka dam” and “Shikharchandi” temple can be included in the itinerary.
It can be a bit difficult to reach this place as the roads leading to this place are not very smooth. However, a drive to this place in a private vehicle through the offbeat roads can be an adventure in itself.
Mandasaru, the silent valley
Very popular as the “Silent valley of Odisha” among tourists, this beautiful place is in Kandhamal district of Odisha. It is quite close to one of the most sought tourist destinations of the state “Daringbadi” which is also known as the “Kashmir of Odisha”. Mandasaru has lately become very popular as one of the best offbeat destinations of the state. This valley is surrounded by 22 hills in a row which makes a stunning scene for onlookers. Dense tropical deciduous forest fills this beautiful valley and is truly one of the best kept secrets of Odisha tourism. The mesmerizing beauty, rich biodiversity and frequent weather changes makes it a perfect weekend getaway place from the busy city life.
A beautiful nature camp has been set here as accommodation option for tourists. Earlier it was a day tourism Centre under OFSDP, however, looking at its success, night staying facility has been developed. Since then it has become one of the best nature camps in the state of Odisha. A group of 19 local woman who are a part of the ETG group manage this nature camp. This group of women not only provides room and catering service, but also work as local guides. It is one of the best places to experience fresh cooked local Odia cuisine along with top class Odia hospitality.
Khandadhar Waterfalls
This mesmerizing waterfall lies in Sundargarh district, Odisha and is considered as one of the most beautiful waterfalls not only in the state but also in India. The wilderness at Khandadhar, along with the echo of the chirping birds has always been a treat for a tired souls. The shape of this waterfall is that of a sword, hence this name “Khandadhar” which literally means edge of swords in Odia language. Water falls from a height of 244 meters and then rolls over the rocky beds is a beautiful sight for onlookers. This waterfall is surrounded with lush green and dense forest which adds to the beauty of this place. The forest here is gifted with large variety of flora and fauna which are unique to this place.
Reaching this place can be an adventure in itself. Navigating through the dense forest to reach this place is quite challenging. Like most other waterfalls in Odisha, the best time to visit Khandadhar waterfall’s is from October to February when this waterfall is at its full flury. However, one can visit this place around the year. It lies at a distance of 104 Kms from steel city Rourkela and 132 Kms from Keonjhar town. Hire a private vehicle to reach this place which will ensure that you enjoy the scenic beauty enroute to this place to the maximum. But one has to walk the last one kilometre to reach this place as it is not vehicle friendly . Once here, nature and adventure lovers can also plan a trekking at “Tensa valley”.
Once in Odisha, it is highly recomended to visit these beautiful off-beat destinations and enjoy a memorable holiday and cherish for life.
