Exploring the Breathtaking Hill Stations Near Bhubaneswar

Every time you head toward the hills, you feel like you are hitting a reset button — a quick escape that refreshes both mind and soul. If you have ever longed for a break where you can sip tea while clouds drift by or simply drive through winding green roads with your playlist on, you will love what’s around Bhubaneswar. In this travel guide, I will take you through my favorite Hill Stations Near Bhubaneswar from quick one-day escapes less than 100 km away to long, winding drives that lead to misty valleys and hidden villages.

One Day Picnic Spots (Within 100 km)

When you need a quick break from the city — a day with fresh air, greenery and maybe a lazy picnic — these nearby hill escapes are my go-to. All of them can be covered in a single day (or a relaxed overnight if you wish) and the drives are as soothing as the destinations themselves.

Deuli Hills – The Twin Peaks with a Hidden Charm

About 74 km from Bhubaneswar (roughly 1.5 hours by road). The route via Jatni and Khurda is smooth with a gentle climb in the final stretch.

Highlights

Deuli Hills stands out with its twin peaks and panoramic views of the surrounding plains. The place is peaceful, perfect for short hikes, sunrise watching or simply sitting with a book and a flask of chai. There’s also a small temple at the top and ancient rock carvings that locals say are centuries old.

My Travel Notes

Visit the Deuli in early winter when the mist is still hovering above the fields. Climbing to the top take 20 minutes and the view is worth every step.

Best Time

October to February, when the mornings are cool and visibility is clear for long-distance views. Avoid midday in summer; it can get quite hot and dry.

Kapilash Hill – A Blend of Nature and Faith

Kapilash hills are around 85 km from Bhubaneswar (2 hours by car). The drive via Dhenkanal is scenic and comfortable with forest stretches and clear roads.

Highlights

You can either climb 1,350 steps to reach the top or take the winding motor road to the next stop. Apart from the spiritual vibe, the hill offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and is home to a small wildlife sanctuary.

My Travel Notes

Take the stairs slowly, with plenty of water breaks. The top is peaceful and breezy with monkeys swinging from trees (keep an eye on your snacks!). There’s also a viewpoint where you can see the entire Dhenkanal town below.

Best Time

October to February for cool climbs and clear views. Try to visit in the early morning to enjoy the peace before the temple gets busy.

Barunei Hills – The Sacred Hill by Nature’s Lap

Just 29 km from Bhubaneswar (45 minutes by car). The short drive via Khurda is smooth and easy for a quick half-day outing.

Highlights

Barunei Hills combine spirituality and scenic charm. It’s a quiet spot for meditation, picnics or a relaxed nature walk.

My Travel Notes

Barunei is where I love to go when I don’t want to drive too far but still crave the feel of the hills. The gentle breeze creates such a calming rhythm.

Best Time

Post-monsoon (September to January) is the most beautiful — the hill turns lush green and the small streams come alive.

Tangi Hills – For a Short Scenic Drive

About 44 km from Bhubaneswar (around 2 hours). The drive is straightforward along NH16 and the last stretch winds through quiet countryside roads.

Highlights

Tangi Hills is not widely known which makes it perfect for a peaceful day out. You can hike short trails, explore small caves or just enjoy the view of green rolling landscapes. There’s a small lake nearby where locals go boating during weekends.

My Travel Notes

The road diverts through a small forest patch and suddenly open up into a hill viewpoint. It feels like discovering a secret! There are not many facilities here, so pack your essentials. It’s great for those who like driving, photography and solitude.

Best Time

October to February, when skies are clear and temperatures stay mild.

These quick getaways are perfect when you want a little hill magic without spending too long on the road. Each one has its own mood from the sacred calm of Barunei to the misty charm of Daringbadi and they all remind me how much beauty lies just outside Bhubaneswar.

Mid-Range Escapes (Within 200 km)

If you have got a full weekend to spare, these hill getaways are ideal. They are far enough to feel like a proper trip but close enough for an easy drive. I love pack a small overnight bag, some good playlists and hit the road early because the best part of these trips is how the journey slowly unfolds from plains to gentle hills.

Dhenkanal Hills – Forests & Rural Calm

Roughly 61 km from Bhubaneswar (around 1.5 hours by car). The highway towards Dhenkanal is in excellent condition.

Highlights

Dhenkanal district is surrounded by low hill ranges covered in Sal and Mahua trees. The area is home to beautiful spiritual and natural sites like Kapilash, Joranda Monastery and Saptasajya Hills. It’s a wonderful mix of culture, religion and rustic beauty.

My Travel Notes

I love to spend a night at a small eco-lodge near Saptasajya and wake up to birdsong when the fog drifts between the trees. The locals are incredibly friendly.

Best Time

November to February for pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Spring (March) also brings blooming forests.

Simlipal Hills – Forests, Waterfalls & Wild Encounters

Roughly 191 km from Bhubaneswar (about 6 hours via NH16 and Baripada).

Highlights

Part of the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, this is one of India’s largest forested hill regions — a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers. The rolling hills hide waterfalls like Barehipani and Joranda and the area teems with elephants, deer and rare birds. The forest canopy drives are unforgettable — sunlight dancing on winding roads through tall sal trees.

My Travel Notes

Driving through Simlipal feels like stepping into another world. I love to stay at a forest rest house and wake up to the sound of distant elephant trumpets! A short trek to Barehipani waterfall (one of India’s highest) is the highlight of this trip.

Best Time

November to February, when the forest is lush but the weather is pleasant for safaris and treks.

Long Hill Drives (Within 250 km)

These are the kind of trips that start with excitement at dawn and end with breathtaking sunsets. A little longer on the road but every turn brings something magical in the form of misty mountains, winding forest trails and small roadside tea stalls that serve the best chai you will ever have.

Daringbadi – The “Kashmir of Odisha”

About 247 km from Bhubaneswar (roughly 6–7 hours by road via Bhanjanagar and Baliguda).

Highlights

Daringbadi, often called the Kashmir of Odisha, is a forested hill station in the Kandhamal district, sitting at about 3,000 feet above sea level. It’s famous for its pine forests, coffee gardens, waterfalls and refreshing climate. The Hill View Park and Doluri River are great for relaxed strolls while the Lovers’ Point viewpoint is perfect for sunset watchers.

My Travel Notes

Morning in Daringbadi is a dream come true — mist curling through the pine trees, the air crisp and cold enough to make you clutch the cup of tea tighter.

Best Time

October to March — winter mornings can dip below 10°C, making it ideal for cozy stays and foggy hikes.

Keonjhar Hills – Waterfalls & Forest Adventures

Around 225 km from Bhubaneswar (about 5 hours by car via NH49). The roads are well-paved and pass through thick forests and tribal areas.

Highlights

Keonjhar, nestled in the northern part of Odisha, is famous for its lush hills, cascading waterfalls (like Sanaghagara and Badaghagara) and ancient caves. The town itself sits amid rolling green hills, making it a perfect mix of adventure and nature.

My Travel Notes

The hills around Keonjhar are great for short hikes and nature walks. If you are into road photography, the drive from Bhubaneswar to Keonjhar is absolutely scenic with forest corridors, bridges and winding mountain bends.

Best Time

October to February for clear weather and full waterfalls. The region turns beautifully green just after the monsoon.

Khandadhar Hills – The Land of Odisha’s Tallest Waterfall

About 270 km from Bhubaneswar (around 6 hours). The route via Sundargarh is fairly straightforward though the last stretch can be narrow.

Highlights

The main attraction here is the Khandadhar Waterfall, one of Odisha’s tallest at nearly 244 meters! The hills around it are part of the Eastern Ghats, carpeted in dense forest. You can trek a short distance to reach the viewpoint or just relax near the base where the mist creates a magical rainbow on sunny days.

My Travel Notes

Khandadhar blew me away — literally and figuratively! You will meet group of young trekkers who share stories of exploring nearby trails.

Best Time

October to January when the waterfall is in full glory and the trek is safe. Avoid peak monsoon as the area can get slippery.

Pure Hill Stations (Thrill Within 500 Km)

If you want to restart your routines then be ready we are heading to this main part. The distance above 300 Km allows you to unwind from daily routines from both physically and mently.

Gandhamardan Hills – Mythology Meets Nature

About 442 km from Bhubaneswar (9.5 hours via Balangir or Bargarh).

Highlights

Steeped in mythology, Gandhamardan is believed to be the hill Hanuman carried during the Ramayana! These twin hills straddle the Balangir–Bargarh border and are known for their lush herbal forests, sacred temples (like Nrusinghanath) and hidden waterfalls. The landscape is pristine, untouched by commercialization.

My Travel Notes

This trip feels like time travel. The dense green cover and the sound of hidden streams make it a truly spiritual escape. A small herbal garden near the base showcases medicinal plants — a must-visit for nature lovers.

Best Time

October to February for pleasant treks and temple visits. Summers can be quite warm.

Deomali Hills – The Roof of Odisha

Around 465 km from Bhubaneswar (roughly 10 hours via Koraput).

Highlights

Deomali, the highest peak in Odisha (1,672 meters) is a spectacular destination for adventure seekers. The drive climbs steadily into the Eastern Ghats, revealing sweeping valleys, tribal villages and green ridges. From the top, the views are jaw-dropping — rolling hills fading into the misty horizon.

My Travel Notes

Standing atop Deomali feels surreal when the wind whistled through the grass and clouds float just below you feet. The area is still raw and untouched, so carry essentials like food and water.

Best Time

November to February. The winter skies are clear, and the landscapes look their best in soft golden light.

Harishankar Hills – A Peaceful Blend of Nature & Faith

About 412 km from Bhubaneswar, roughly 9 hours by car.

Highlights

Nestled at the base of the Gandhamardan range, Harishankar is both a pilgrimage site and a scenic hill getaway. The short trek to the nearby waterfall is refreshing and family-friendly.

My Travel Notes

Visit just before dusk. I love to sit by the stream, feet in cool water and start watching the sky turn orange. If you are someone who loves peaceful spots with cultural charm, Harishankar will win your heart.

Best Time

October to February, when the water levels are good and the climate is calm.

Hidden & Offbeat Hill Stations Near Bhubaneswar

These are the kind of places that don’t show up on every travel list — peaceful villages tucked in the hills, forest roads where you can still hear birds louder than engines and hill viewpoints where you might just have the entire place to yourself. If you love discovering quiet corners, this list is for you.

Taptapani – The Hot Spring Retreat

About 259 km from Bhubaneswar, roughly 5–6 hours by road via Aska and Mohana.

Highlights

Taptapani is famous for its natural hot springs, surrounded by rolling hills and thick forests. The water is said to have medicinal properties and the Odisha Tourism Panthanivas here even has bathing facilities that channel the spring water directly. The nearby tribal villages and Chandragiri Buddhist Monastery make it an interesting cultural detour too.

My Travel Notes

Taptapani is drizzling lightly — the smell of wet earth and the steam rising from the spring make the whole place feel magical.

Best Time

October to February, when the weather is crisp and ideal for soaking in the springs.

Mahendragiri Hills – A Mythical and Majestic Escape

Around 253 km from Bhubaneswar (6 hours by car via Berhampur).

Highlights

The second-highest peak in Odisha, Mahendragiri is steeped in legends from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The hilltop offers sweeping views of the Eastern Ghats. It’s also a great spot for trekking, camping and stargazing — the night sky here is unreal!

My Travel Notes

This place had me awestruck. Start the hike before sunrise and by the time you reach the top, you will see the clouds are moving below youlike waves. The drive up is a bit rough but full of scenic bends and lush greenery.

Best Time

November to February for cool weather and clear views. Avoid monsoon due to slippery trails.

Satkosia Gorge & Tikarpada – Hills Hugging the River

About 120 km from Bhubaneswar, around 4–5 hours by road via Angul.

Highlights

Not exactly a hill station but the Satkosia Gorge is one of Odisha’s most stunning natural formations where the Mahanadi River cuts through the Eastern Ghats. The surrounding forested hills create a breathtaking backdrop for camping, boating and wildlife spotting. Tikarpada is a great base to explore the area.

My Travel Notes

I love to stay in an eco-camp right by the riverbank — just me, the sound of crickets and a sky full of stars. Early in the morning, take a boat ride on the Mahanadi and spot crocodiles sunbathing on the banks!

Best Time

November to February — the river is calm and the weather’s perfect for camping and wildlife safaris.

Panchalingeswar Hills – The Hill of Five Lingas

Around 183 km from Bhubaneswar, around 4 hours via Nilagiri.

Highlights

This serene hill, located near Balasore. The hill is surrounded by dense forests, making it an ideal place for treks and spiritual retreats. The cool stream water running over the rocks feels refreshing even on the hottest days.

My Travel Notes

Sit by the stream and listen to its gentle gurgle. There are a few small lodges nearby if you wish to stay overnight.

Best Time

October to March, when the hill is lush and the weather pleasant.

Suggested Itineraries for Hill Stations Near Bhubaneswar

Sometimes we need to follow a ready made plan for our tours. For your maximum output I have gathered these ready to follow itineraries.

1-Day Trips From Bhubaneswar

Perfect for: A short nature break without leaving too far from the city.

Route: Bhubaneswar → Khurda → Barunei Hills → Dhenkanal → Kapilash Hill → Return

What to Expect:

• Start early around 6:30 AM with breakfast at a local eatery near Khurda.
  
• Visit Kapilash Hill and take a short walk to the nearby waterfall (if visiting post-monsoon).
  
• Enjoy lunch in Dhenkanal town — I recommend Hotel Shakti for traditional Odia thali.
  
• Return by evening with sunset views along the drive back.

Travel Tip: Carry enough water and snacks; both spots are spiritual and scenic, best enjoyed with slow walks and calm moments.

Places to visit Near Bhubaneswar for 2 Days

Perfect for: Chilly mornings, pine forests and short treks.

Route: Bhubaneswar → Bhanjanagar → Baliguda → Daringbadi

Day 1:

• Start early (around 5:30 AM) — have breakfast at Bhanjanagar, known for its small tea stalls.
  
• Enjoy the forest views.
  
• Reach Daringbadi by afternoon; check in to your stay (like Deers Eco Resort or Nature Retreat).
  
• Visit the Hill View Park and enjoy the sunset over the valleys.

Day 2:

• Explore Pine Forest, Coffee Garden and Lovers’ Point Waterfall.
  
• Try local pepper chicken and coffee.
  
• Depart post-lunch and reach Bhubaneswar by evening.

Travel Tip: Carry warm clothes as it can get surprisingly cold, especially at night!

Tourist Places Near Bhubaneswar

Perfect for: Forest safaris and waterfalls.

Route: Bhubaneswar → Balasore → Panchalingeswar → Simlipal → Bhubaneswar

Day 1:

• Drive early to Panchalingeswar Hill (about 6 hours).
  
• Visit the temple and stream, then relax at a nearby lodge like OTDC Panthanivas.
  
• Enjoy local dinner — try “Machha Besara” (fish in mustard curry).

Day 2:

• Head to Simlipal Tiger Reserve via Baripada.
  
• Go for a guided jeep safari — visit Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls.
  
• Overnight stay inside the park at forest rest houses (book in advance).

Day 3:

• Morning forest walk or birdwatching session.
  
• Drive back to Bhubaneswar, stopping at roadside dhabas for lunch.

Travel Tip: Entry to Simlipal requires pre-permission, so plan permits ahead.

4–5 Day Road Trip – Taptapani, Mahendragiri & Gopalpur-on-Sea

Perfect for: A mix of hills, hot springs, beaches and scenic routes.

Route: Bhubaneswar → Taptapani → Mahendragiri → Gopalpur → Bhubaneswar

Day 1:

• Leave early for Taptapani Hot Springs (around 5–6 hours).
  
• Enjoy a soothing dip in the natural warm waters.
  
• Stay overnight at OTDC Panthanivas Taptapani.

Day 2:

• Drive toward Mahendragiri Hills via Berhampur.
  
• Trek up to the top and visit ancient temples.
  
• Stay overnight at a nearby lodge or homestay in Gajapati district.

Day 3:

• Head to Gopalpur-on-Sea for a relaxed beach evening.
  
• Enjoy seafood, ocean breeze and sunset walks.

Day 4:

• Visit Chilika Lake (Rambha or Barkul side) on the return route.
  
• Take a short boat ride before heading back to Bhubaneswar.

Travel Tip: This loop beautifully blends hills and sea — perfect for travelers who want both tranquility and variety.

Foodie Corner – Where to Eat Along the Way

If you are like me, food is half the fun of travel. From spicy roadside snacks to warm local thalis, the routes around Bhubaneswar have some hidden gems where you can stop, refuel and truly taste Odisha. Here are tried-and-tested favorites from each hill route.

On the Way to Barunei & Kapilash Hills (Under 100 km)

🍴 Must-Try Stops:

• Hotel Sunshine, Khurda – A clean family restaurant known for Odia thalis and masala chai.
  
• Barunei Hillside Stalls – Small tea stalls selling fresh pakoras and boiled corn.
  
• Dhenkanal Sweets Corner – Famous for chhena poda, a local baked cheese dessert.

My Note: I usually stop at a roadside tea stall near Barunei and chat with locals — their ginger tea and warm smiles always make my mornings better!

On the Way to Daringbadi (Around 250 km)

🍴 Must-Try Stops:

• Bhanjanagar Market – Try hot singadas (Odisha’s samosas) and sweet rasagola.
  
• Baliguda Highway Dhaba – Serves fresh fish curry, rice and dalma (a local lentil-vegetable dish).
  
• Hill View Park Canteen, Daringbadi – Small but great for coffee and local snacks.

My Note: Don’t miss Daringbadi’s locally grown coffee — slightly earthy, aromatic and brewed with love by the villagers.

On the Way to Simlipal & Panchalingeswar Hills

🍴 Must-Try Stops:

• Panthanivas Restaurant, Panchalingeswar – Serves traditional meals with simple but comforting flavors.
  
• Baripada Town Eateries – Try mudhi mansa (puffed rice with spicy mutton curry) — a Simlipal classic!
  
• Balasore Highway Cafes – Several new roadside dhabas serve hearty breakfast options like parathas and omelettes.

My Note: I once had the best fish curry at a nameless roadside stall on this route — proof that sometimes the best meals are the unexpected ones!

On the Way to Taptapani, Mahendragiri & Gopalpur

🍴 Must-Try Stops:

• Panthanivas Taptapani Canteen – Try the simple pakhala bhata (fermented rice) with fried fish — it’s soul food!
  
• Berhampur City – Don’t miss chhena jhili and bara aloo curry at the local market.
  
• Gopalpur Beach Shacks – Fresh prawns, grilled pomfret and cool coconut water by the sea.

My Note: Gopalpur’s beachfront cafes are dreamy — I love watching the waves with a cup of black coffee and a spicy seafood platter.

On the Way to Gandhamardan & Harishankar Hills

🍴 Must-Try Stops:

• Balangir Town Hotels – Hotel Bishnu Palace has excellent veg and non-veg thalis.
  
• Harishankar Temple Canteen – Offers basic meals but with the charm of temple hospitality.
  
• Local Forest Shops – Try herbal teas and honey sold by forest communities.

My Note: Simple meals here taste extra special after a long trek — perhaps it’s the mountain air or the kindness of people serving them.

Local Flavors You Should Try Anywhere in Odisha

• Pakhala Bhata – Cooling fermented rice dish, perfect for summer.
  
• Dalma – Comfort food made with lentils, veggies and a hint of ghee.
  
• Chhena Poda – Odisha’s famous baked cheese dessert.
  
• Mudhi Mansa – Crunchy, spicy and utterly satisfying street food from northern Odisha.
  
• Odisha Coffee – Grown in Daringbadi and Koraput — a hidden gem for caffeine lovers.

Whether you are fueling up for a trek or winding down after a drive, these stops remind me that food in Odisha is not just about flavor — it’s about heart, warmth and the people who make every meal special.

Where to Stay – My Tried & Tested Recommendations

Finding the right place to stay can make or break a trip, don’t you think? For me, it’s not just about comfort but it’s about waking up to a view, feeling the local warmth and ending each day with peace. From forest lodges to simple homestays, here are some of my favorite stays near Bhubaneswar that make your hill trips unforgettable.

Barunei & Kapilash Hills (Under 100 km)

🏡 Stay Options:

• Panthanivas Dhenkanal – A government-run guesthouse with clean rooms and calm surroundings.
  
• Local Homestays near Kapilash Temple – Great for travelers who love homely food and friendly hosts.
  
• Hotel Empires, Khurda – Ideal if you prefer city comfort with quick access to Barunei Hills.

Best For: Quick weekend escapes and temple trips.

Daringbadi (Around 250 km)

🏡 Stay Options:

• Nature Valley Resort – Wooden cottages surrounded by pine forests; perfect for couples and families.
  
• Deers Eco Home – A peaceful stay run by locals with campfire dinners and organic meals.
  
• OTDC Panthanivas, Daringbadi – Budget-friendly with good connectivity and simple amenities.

Best For: Winter trips, romantic getaways and nature lovers.

Panchalingeswar & Simlipal Hills (180–220 km)

🏡 Stay Options:

• Panthanivas Panchalingeswar – Well-kept rooms, forest views and a quiet vibe.
  
• Simlipal Eco Retreat – Luxurious glamping tents near the national park; ideal for those who love adventure in comfort.
  
• Baripada Guest Houses – Budget options with easy access to local food and markets.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts, families and road trippers.

Taptapani & Mahendragiri Hills (200–250 km)

🏡 Stay Options:

• Panthanivas Taptapani – Simple rooms overlooking hills and hot springs.
  
• Mahendragiri Hill Homestays – Basic but charming stays, run by tribal families who share wonderful local stories.
  
• Berhampur Resorts (like Nandan Kanan Eco Stay) – Comfortable mid-range options near the coast.

Best For: Spiritual travelers and those looking for offbeat relaxation.

Gandhamardan & Harishankar Hills (250 km+)

🏡 Stay Options:

• Harishankar Temple Guesthouse – Modest, peaceful stay right next to the temple.
  
• Balangir Hotels (like Hotel Bishnu Palace) – Convenient for exploring nearby hills.
  
• Eco Cottages by Forest Dept. – Limited availability but great for a raw forest experience.

Best For: Pilgrims, trekkers and culture lovers.

Tips for Choosing Your Stay

• Book early during winter and weekends — many places have limited rooms.
  
• Try eco stays — they offer real experiences and support local communities.
  
• Carry cash — smaller places may not accept digital payments.
  
• Ask for local food — home-cooked meals are always tastier and healthier!

Every stay I have chosen holds a story — whether it’s a cozy night under pine trees or a simple guesthouse run by kind-hearted locals. No matter your budget, you will find that Odisha’s hospitality always adds a warm touch to your hill adventure.

Conclusion

Every trip to the hills near Bhubaneswar remind us of one simple truth — you don’t have to go far to find peace. Sometimes, the best adventures begin just a few hours from home, hidden behind winding roads, whispering forests and misty hilltops.

Odisha’s hill stations may not be the most talked-about but that’s exactly what makes them special. They are serene, less crowded and full of heart. Whether it’s watching the sunrise from Daringbadi’s pine slopes or soaking in the natural springs of Taptapani — every spot has its own quiet magic waiting for you.

So the next time you feel the urge to get away, don’t just dream of the Himalayas or faraway resorts. Take a road trip into the green folds of Odisha, roll down your windows, breathe in the fresh air and let nature do the rest.

After all, isn’t travel about finding joy in the journey as much as the destination?

FAQs About Hill Stations Near Bhubaneswar

Here are frequently asked questions:

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