Bhubaneswar, Dec 11: If you believed that the most verdant hill stations in India were exclusively nestled in Kerala, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya, you have yet to discover the hidden treasures of Odisha in eastern India.
Beyond its expansive coastline and magnificent temples, Odisha boasts captivating hill stations that can captivate nature and mountain enthusiasts alike. These lesser-known gems of Odisha unquestionably merit a coveted spot on every traveler's bucket list.
Here are six such enchanting hill stations:
Daringbadi:
Daringbadi, a picturesque town in Odisha adorned with pine forests, cascading waterfalls, undulating hills, and mist-laden trails, is often hailed as the 'Kashmir of Odisha.' Nestled in the Kandhamal district, approximately 3000 feet above sea level, Daringbadi features plateaus and valleys adorned with coffee and pepper gardens. A serene town, Daringbadi immerses visitors in the symphony of waterfalls and bird melodies, with the added allure of snowfall during winter.
Tensa:
Situated at an elevation of around 3700 meters above sea level, Tensa is a magical town in the Sundargarh district of Odisha. Boasting vast expanses of dense forests, green meadows, and rolling hills, Tensa is located about 93 kilometers from Rourkela. Key attractions in the vicinity include the Khandadhar waterfall and Shanti Stupa.
Mahendragiri:
Located in the Gajapati district of Odisha, Mahendragiri holds religious and mythological significance as the second-highest mountain peak in Odisha after Deomali. This lush green hill station is home to rare medicinal plants and captivating wildlife.
Dumuriput:
Dumuriput stands out not only for its stunning mountains and verdant valleys but also for housing the kneeling Hanuman statue, one of the tallest statues in Odisha. The grand celebration of Ram Navami at Dumuriput attracts tourists from across the country.
Taptapani:
Renowned as one of the most breathtaking hill stations in India, Taptapani is famous for its hot sulphur water spring, believed to possess medicinal properties. The name Taptapani translates to "hot water spring," with the spring emerging from the eastern slope of the Eastern Ghats. Taptapani treats travelers to captivating hills and a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Deomali:
The Deomali peak, near Doodhari village, claims the title of the highest mountain peak in Odisha. Featuring dense forests and abundant mineral resources like limestone and bauxite, Deomali enchants with numerous brooks, tea gardens, and deep valleys, resembling a haven from a fairytale.
