Top 5 Weekend Getaways from Bhubaneswar That Aren't Just Puri Again

Beyond the Obvious Choices

Don't get us wrong – Puri is beautiful. But if you've been there multiple times or want to explore something different, Odisha has incredible hidden gems perfect for weekend getaways. Here are our top picks that locals love but tourists rarely discover.

1. Daringbadi - The Kashmir of Odisha

At 915 meters above sea level, Daringbadi offers a completely different climate and landscape. Coffee plantations, pine forests, and if you're lucky, even some fog that'll make you feel like you're in the hills.

Perfect for: Couples seeking romantic getaways, nature photographers

Distance: 4 hours from Bhubaneswar

Best time: October to March

2. Satapada - Dolphins and Tranquility

Where Chilika Lake meets the Bay of Bengal, Satapada offers dolphin watching, peaceful boat rides, and some of the freshest seafood you'll ever taste. It's like Puri's quieter, more sophisticated cousin.

Perfect for: Wildlife enthusiasts, food lovers

Distance: 2.5 hours from Bhubaneswar

Highlight: Irrawaddy dolphins and migratory birds

3. Bhitarkanika - Crocodile Safari Adventure

For those seeking gentle adventure, Bhitarkanika National Park offers mangrove boat safaris where you can spot saltwater crocodiles, king cobras, and over 200 bird species. It's like a mini Amazon in Odisha.

Perfect for: Adventure seekers, wildlife photographers

Distance: 3.5 hours from Bhubaneswar

Best experience: Early morning boat safari

4. Taptapani - Natural Hot Springs

Imagine soaking in natural hot springs surrounded by hills and forests. Taptapani offers exactly that, plus ancient temples and peaceful hiking trails. It's therapeutic both physically and mentally.

Perfect for: Stress relief, spiritual seekers

Distance: 4 hours from Bhubaneswar

Special feature: Natural sulfur hot springs

5. Chandipur - The Vanishing Beach

At Chandipur, the sea literally disappears during low tide, revealing a 5km stretch of seabed you can walk on. It's one of the rarest geographical phenomena in India, yet hardly crowded.

Perfect for: Curious minds, unique experiences

Distance: 4.5 hours from Bhubaneswar

Best time to visit: During low tide hours

Planning Your Getaway

Each of these destinations offers overnight stay options, from budget homestays to comfortable resorts. We recommend 2-day trips to fully experience what each place offers.

The best part? These places aren't overrun with tourists, so you can actually relax and enjoy the experience without fighting crowds for that perfect photo.