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Discover Monsoon Magic in Odisha
Travelling during monsoon? That’s not a common concept. But why? It is time to re-think! Monsoon tourism is gaining popularity across India, with reels of top monsoon destinations from across India going viral. Travellers are now eager to visit offbeat destinations during the rainy season to immerse themselves in nature's abundant beauty and to take advantage of off-season prices. While the internet boasts of places like Coorg and Mahabaleshwar, Odisha too is a prime location to experience the magic of monsoon. It offers an array of experiences like driving amidst misty hills, bathing in the majestic waterfalls, soaking in the aroma of petrichor amidst the lush, green landscapes, or listening to the pitter-patter of the rain while you reflect upon life at tranquil monasteries. I don’t know about you, but I’d also love to spend my afternoon by the window sill of a hotel room with a hot cup of tea, a book in my hand and a plate of hot pakodas with fried green chillies.
In this article, we will explore some of the best monsoon destinations in Odisha, each offering a unique blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and memorable experiences. Whether you're trekking through lush forests, exploring majestic waterfalls, or simply enjoying the serene ambiance, Odisha promises to make your monsoon getaway an unforgettable adventure.
Jirang: Nestled amidst green, lush landscapes of Odisha, Jirang emerges as an unexplored monsoon destination. It is often hailed as the "Little Tibet" of Odisha. Located in Chandragiri of Gajapati district, Jirang is an enchanting blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Its main attraction is the magnificent Padmasambhava Monastery, a beacon of Tibetan Buddhist culture and the largest of its kind in Eastern India. Inaugurated by the Dalai Lama himself in 2010, this monastery not only serves as a spiritual sanctuary but also as an educational hub for aspiring Buddhist monks from across the nation. Beyond the monastery, the Avalokiteswara statue at Mahedragad, draws pilgrims and enthusiasts alike. Nearby, the Monastery at Labarasingh offers another glimpse into the tranquil realm of Tibetan Buddhism. As the monsoon descends, Jirang transforms into a lush oasis. The peace pagoda at Camp No. 4 welcomes visitors with its peaceful ambiance. About 4 kilometres away lies the Khasada waterfalls, which reaches its full splendour during the rainy season, providing a picturesque retreat for nature lovers. En route from Berhampur to Chandragiri, travellers can also discover the therapeutic 'Tapta Pani' hot springs, an ideal respite amidst the monsoon rains.
Koraput: If you are a nature lover, make haste and plan a trip to Koraput this monsoon. Nestled in the Eastern Ghats, this district is a treasure trove of natural beauty and tribal culture. The monsoon paints Koraput valley in lush shades of green, creating a mesmerising backdrop for your adventures. It's the perfect time to witness how deeply the local tribal communities are connected to their natural surroundings. Make the most of your trip by embarking on an afternoon hike to Duduma waterfall, where you can marvel at its cascading beauty and perhaps catch a breathtaking sunset. For early risers, a morning drive to the foothills of Deomali awaits. As the highest peak in Odisha standing tall at 1672 metres, Deomali offers a thrilling trekking experience amidst pristine nature. Koraput in monsoons is perfect for trekking, nature walks, and cultural experiences.
Daringbadi: Daringbadi, known as the 'Kashmir of Odisha', offers a refreshing escape during the monsoon season. Situated in Phulbani district, this hill station is known for its cool temperatures and occasional snowfall. Originally inhabited by the ancient ‘Kutia Kondh’ tribe, Daringbadi enchants with its pine-dotted hills and lush valleys adorned with pepper and coffee plantations. The landscape is dotted with picturesque waterfalls and streams, adding to its natural charm. During the rainy season, nearby forests like Kiriburu and Meghataburu transform into magnificent vistas, drenched in the beauty of 200-350 millimetres of rainfall. The hill view park in Daringbadi, situated 3000 feet above sea level, offers panoramic views of the entire village and surrounding hills. The sight of the Daluri River flowing down the hill adds to the scenic allure during the monsoon. July brings a unique allure to Daringbadi, with cool and pleasant weather perfect for nature walks, trekking, and soaking in the mist-covered hills. While rain is a part of the experience, it's advisable to pack suitable clothing and gear to ensure a comfortable visit.
Gopalpur: If you are someone who enjoys rain-washed beaches, the often secluded beaches of Gopalpur during the monsoons could be heaven for you. Gopalpur, a quiet coastal town in Odisha, becomes especially beautiful during the monsoon season. Located by the Bay of Bengal, this seaside spot turns into a lush green paradise, perfect for a peaceful getaway. In the monsoon, Gopalpur's beaches are a sight to behold. The rain makes the sands clean and the greenery vibrant. The waves crashing against the shore create a calming and mesmerising view. The cool breeze and occasional showers make the weather refreshing. One of the main attractions in Gopalpur is its old lighthouse. Climbing up gives you a stunning view of the sea and the surrounding area, especially during the rainy season when the clouds and rain make the scenery even more dramatic. The town also has a rich history, seen in its old colonial buildings and the remains of the once-busy port. Walking through Gopalpur, you can enjoy its charming and peaceful atmosphere. Nearby, the Rushikulya River is a beautiful place to visit during the monsoon. Though the famous sea turtle nesting happens in winter, the river and its surroundings are very green and peaceful in the rainy season. If you love the monsoon and the tranquillity it brings, Gopalpur is a great place to visit.
Keonjhar: If you're eager to explore spectacular waterfalls this monsoon, Keonjhar should be your top choice. Often overlooked by travellers, Keonjhar, or Kendujhar, is a hidden gem in Odisha, boasting natural beauty that remains largely undiscovered. Keonjhar is home to majestic hills, ancient temples, and cascading waterfalls, making it a beautiful offbeat destination. One of the highlights is Gundicha Ghagi Waterfall, often called the 'Niagara of Odisha.' This stunning waterfall is especially breathtaking during the monsoons and is just a 20-minute drive from the famous Ghatagaon Tarini Temple. The waterfall cascades down the river Musala, dropping 50 feet below the river surface. Another must-visit is Sana Ghagara, which means 'small waterfall.' Located 5 kilometres from Keonjhar town, this waterfall on the San Machakandana River is an exotic ecotourism spot. The area spans 488 hectares of hilly terrain with mixed deciduous and miscellaneous forest vegetation. Near the falls, there's a charming park with animal models, including dinosaurs, and boating facilities. Bhimkund Waterfall is another spectacular sight, featuring twin falls amidst rolling greenery. The majestic Baitarani River creates two beautiful yet daunting waterfalls known as Sanakunda (Smaller Falls) and Badakunda (Bigger Falls). These falls plunge into a deep gorge, their roaring waters and swift currents adding to the thrill for tourists. Bhimkund is also a sacred site where locals gather in large numbers to celebrate Makar Sankranti. Legend has it that the Pandavas stayed here during their exile. Keonjhar's waterfalls, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal monsoon destination.
