Odisha by road

The best way to discover any destination is by piling into a car, setting out into the open, and seeing where the road takes you. And it is no different with Odisha, as the state’s relatively untouched landscape has something new and exciting to offer travellers at every turn of the road. Given Odisha’s exceptional state-of-the-art road connectivity, these road trips span diverse destinations—from beaches, forests, and hill stations to tribal villages, waterbodies, and cities—immersing travellers in the best the state has to offer by way of scenic beauty, heritage, history, adventure, nature, and leisure.

Deep into the mangroves (Kolkata to Bhitarkanika via Bichitrapur and Chandipur)

Get up close and personal with nature by setting out on mangrove walks, boat rides, cruises, and bike rides that unravel Odisha’s natural beauty in all its glory. Discover hidden marine ecosystems populated with a variety of bird and crab species, visit historic temples like the Chandaneswar Temple and Balasore’s Emami Jagannath Temple, marvel at the fascinating ‘receding beach’ phenomenon at Chandipur Beach, and witness wildlife in its natural habitat in the verdant thickets of Bhitarkanika National Park. Complete with stays at quaint nature camps, this itinerary promise to be an absolute delight for nature lovers.
Savour along the way: Mudhi mansa; seafood delicacies including fish, crabs, and prawns.

Tiger trails and royalty (Ranchi/Jamshedpur to Similipal Tiger Reserve and Baripada)

Wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs are in for a treat with this itinerary that presents the best of both worlds. Gaze in wonder at the magnificent Barehipani, Devkund, and Joranda waterfalls; catch a glimpse of peacocks and sambars at Chahala; set out on a jungle safari to Similipal Biosphere Reserve; and pay a visit to the Mugger Crocodile Rearing Park and Gurguria orchidarium. For a lesson in history, explore the Krushna Mohan Hanumana cave temple, the Athara Deula temple complex, and Khiching’s Kichakeswari Temple. But, for a taste of historical royalty, tour the sprawling Belgadia Palace and engage in illuminating conversations with the hosts. Stays at homely nature camps as well as the majestic Belgadia Palace promise to enhance the experience.
Savour along the way: Mudhi mansa; desi chicken.

The quest for Odisha’s wild west (Raipur to Debrigarh via Hirakud)

From exhilarating adventure sports at Hirakud Reservoir and adrenaline-packed jungle safaris at the Debrigarh and Satkosia wildlife sanctuaries to scenic treks along the Gandhamardan Hills and spiritual awakenings at the Patali Srikhetra, Harishankar – Nrusinghanath, Chausath Yogini, and Indralath temples, there is no dearth of exciting experiences to be had on this road trip. Spend your free time unwinding in a mix of luxury hotels, quiet nature camps, plush tents, and rustic cottages.

Savour along the way: Chaul bara; guguni gupchup; desi chicken; patra poda chicken.

Cruising along the Circas (Visakhapatnam to Chilika via Gopalpur)

A wonderful mix of the stunning natural beauty of Odisha’s landscape and its vibrant culture, this itinerary will take you from the gushing Gandahati waterfall and healing Taptapani hot springs all the wayto the Jirang Monastery and Taratarini Temple and beyond. The highlight is, undoubtedly, the birding paradise of Mangalajodi—go for a boat ride from Satapada to Rajhans Island, catch a glimpse of endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, and take in mesmerising sunrises and sunsets at Chilika Lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, set off on treks to discover the Kunti, Bhima, and Jagannath temples.

Savour along the way: Glass idli; dosa; upma; chutney chicken pakoda; stick kebabs; pithau bhaja; shrabana chhattu; seafood specials like prawns, crabs, and fish.

The ultimate monsoon escape (Visakhapatnam to Koraput via Deomali Hill)

As the name suggests, this road trip is best undertaken during the monsoon months, when Odisha’s natural beauty comes alive. Drive down to tourist spots on Deomali Hills; trek to the Gulmi and Duduma waterfalls; and pay your respects at the holy Gupteswar Cave. For a dose of culture, interact with locals in the tribal villages of Dhuruba and Gadaba or stop by the Tribal Museum at Koraput and the Kotpad village to learn more about Odisha’s rich textile history. Whatever you do, don’t miss hitting up the Thursday Bonda Market at Onukudelli for some beautiful souvenirs.

Savour along the way: Mandia; chicken; South Indian delicacies.

Reaching for the hills (Visakhapatnam to Daringbadi via Rayagada)

If you’re an adventure junkie, this itinerary will be right up your alley. Make your way to the Hanging Bridge at Chekaguda before setting off on a drive through the verdant hills, valleys, and jungles of Chatikona. Next, make your way to Odisha’s serene hill station of Daringbadi and hike through its coffee plantations go exploring the Daringbadi waterfalls, or visit the Butterfly and Hill View parks. The adventure continues at Mandasaru—a rich ecosystem teeming with rare medicinal plant and animal species. Cap your experience at Gopalpur-on-Sea Beach, where you can partake in an array of exciting watersports.

Savour along the way: South Indian meals; desi chicken; mutton

The cascade tail (Ranchi to Keonjhar)
Tailored specially for nature lovers, Odisha’s scenic natural beauty is the prime focus of this road trip. From the gushing waterfalls of Bhimkund—believed to be the location where the Pandavas stayed during their many expeditions—to the twin waterfalls of Sanaghagara and Badakuda and onto to the incredible Sitabinji Fresco Painting and Rock Inscription and the picturesque Kanjipani Ghati, this itinerary throws up surprises at every corner.

Savour along the way: Chena murki, nadia kara, patra pada mansa.

Savour along the way: Chena murki, nadia kara, patra pad