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12-Day Scenic Car Journey Through the Forests and River Valleys of Odisha’s Hilly Districts

Viewed by 147 travelers

Day 1: Rourkela to Sambalpur

Rourkela to Sambalpur, Odisha on July 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Garden Bakery, Rourkela

Start your day with fresh baked goods and strong local tea at this popular bakery known for its warm atmosphere.
INR 150, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive Rourkela to Sambalpur via scenic local roads

Travel through forested and hilly local state roads, avoiding highways to enjoy the natural beauty of Odisha’s landscapes.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 400, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ruchira Restaurant, Sambalpur

Enjoy traditional Odia cuisine such as pakhala and dalma in a comfortable local restaurant known for authentic flavors.
INR 250, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Hirakud Dam and Reservoir

Explore one of the world’s longest earthen dams, surrounded by forested hills and river valleys, ideal for scenic walks and photography. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Check-in and relax at Sambalpur guest house

Settle into your accommodation nestled near the hills with peaceful surroundings.
INR 1200, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kalinga Hotel, Sambalpur

Try local and continental options in this highly recommended hotel restaurant.
INR 350, 1h0m
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Day 2: Sambalpur to Deogarh and Boudh

Sambalpur to Deogarh and Boudh, Odisha on July 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Sambalpur guest house

Enjoy a simple fresh breakfast featuring fruits and local bread before the day’s drive.
Included, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive Sambalpur to Deogarh via forest state roads

Traverse through dense forest tracts and river valleys, immersing in the rural and natural atmosphere of Odisha.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 350, 2h30m

11:00am

Visit Deogarh Fort

Explore the historical fort perched on a hilltop offering panoramic views and insights into Odisha’s medieval heritage. Open daily 9am-5pm.
INR 20, 1h0m

12:15pm

Depart for Boudh district local roads

Continue driving through small villages and green forested hills as you approach Boudh.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 200, 1h15m

1:30pm

Lunch at local eatery, Boudh

Sample traditional Odia thali highlighting rustic flavors in a welcoming village ambiance.
INR 200, 1h0m

2:45pm

Visit Ranipur Jharial Temple Complex

Discover ancient and unique stone temples surrounded by forested hills, depicting Odishan architecture. Open 9am-6pm.
INR 10, 2h0m

5:00pm

Check-in at Boudh guest house

Rest in simple accommodations close to nature and prepare for next day’s explorations.
INR 800, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at guest house or local small restaurant

Enjoy home-style Odia dishes cooked with local ingredients.
INR 250, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Sambalpur to Deogarh and Boudh

Day 3: Boudh to Phulbani

Boudh to Phulbani, Odisha on July 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at guest house

Start with local poha or upma with tea for energy before the drive.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive Boudh to Phulbani through forest roads

Navigate the rich forest tracts full of biodiversity, enjoying river valley views and small tribal villages en route.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 400, 3h0m

11:00am

Visit Kainji Waterfall and surrounding forest

A hidden natural waterfall ideal for light trekking and wildlife spotting, nestled in dense forest. Best visited in early hours.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at local dhaba, Phulbani outskirts

Relish freshly cooked traditional Odia meals including rice and spicy vegetables in casual roadside setting.
INR 150, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Phulbani market and tribal craft shops

Discover tribal handicrafts and organic produce indigenous to the Eastern Ghats region.
Free to browse; shopping optional, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check in to Phulbani eco-resort

Stay in eco-friendly lodging set amid forest settings, promoting sustainable tourism.
INR 1500, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at resort

Enjoy nutritious, locally sourced dishes with fresh vegetables and grains prepared in traditional style.
INR 350, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Boudh to Phulbani

Day 4: Phulbani to Kalahandi

Phulbani to Kalahandi, Odisha on July 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at eco-resort

Taste organic farm produce including fresh fruits, homemade bread, and herbal tea.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive Phulbani to Kalahandi via forest and river valley roads

Absorb landscapes of dense forests merging with agricultural lands and gentle hills.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 450, 3h30m

11:30am

Visit Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore this forest sanctuary famous for its flora and fauna, offering walking trails and birdwatching opportunities. Open 9am-5pm.
INR 50, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at local restaurant near sanctuary

Enjoy simple but hearty Odia meals popular with locals and travelers alike.
INR 200, 1h0m

3:00pm

Drive to Kalahandi town and check in

Arrive to stay and rest before continuing the journey.
INR 1200, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit local Odia handicraft shops

Browse exquisite handloom textiles and tribal crafts distinctive to Kalahandi region.
Free to browse; shopping optional, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Silver Oak, Kalahandi

Sample regional specialty dishes like Macha Tarkari (fish curry) in a comfortable hotel setting.
INR 300, 1h0m
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Day 5: Kalahandi to Nayagarh

Kalahandi to Nayagarh, Odisha on July 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Relish typical Odia breakfast with local bread and chutney.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive from Kalahandi to Nayagarh via scenic local roads

Journey passing through lush forest reserves and meandering river valleys showcasing Odisha’s rural charm.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 500, 4h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at local restaurant, Nayagarh

Enjoy authentic Odia thali featuring rice, dal, vegetable curries, and local sweets.
INR 200, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Nayagarh Fort and local temples

Explore historic architecture including fort ruins and ancient temples nestled near hills. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Check-in at Nayagarh guest house

Settle into lodging close to nature and local culture.
INR 900, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at local family restaurant

Taste fresh produce dishes prepared with regional spices and flavors.
INR 250, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Kalahandi to Nayagarh

Day 6: Nayagarh to Ganjam

Nayagarh to Ganjam, Odisha on July 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at guest house

Savor fresh local preparations emphasizing fruits and bread.
Included, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive Nayagarh to Ganjam district via forest roads

Wind through scenic valleys and small villages highlighted by dense woodlands and river streams.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 400, 3h0m

11:30am

Visit Taptapani Hot Sulphur Springs

Relax at natural hot springs surrounded by thick forests, known for therapeutic properties. Open 8am-6pm.
INR 50, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Taptapani local eatery

Enjoy freshly prepared Odia vegetarian meals amidst tranquil surroundings.
INR 150, 1h0m

3:00pm

Drive to Ganjam town

Travel to the district headquarters set alongside a river valley in lush landscapes.
Car fuel approx. INR 150, 1h0m

4:00pm

Check in at Ganjam hotel

Prepare for relaxation and exploration the next day in the coastal and forest areas.
INR 1300, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Sea View, Ganjam

Dine on fresh seafood and traditional Odia dishes with river valley or sea views.
INR 400, 1h0m
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Day 7: Ganjam to Gajapati

Ganjam to Gajapati, Odisha on July 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start with fresh fruits, local breads, and tea.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive Ganjam to Gajapati via forest roads

Explore dense forests and rolling hills along state and village roads without highway interference.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 450, 3h30m

11:30am

Visit Daringbadi Hill Station

Known as the 'Kashmir of Odisha,' this hill station offers pleasant climate and tea gardens surrounded by thick forests. Open all day.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at a local hillside restaurant

Relish fresh garden vegetables, traditional Odia dishes, and aromatic coffee.
INR 250, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit nearby tribal villages

Experience local tribal culture, crafts, and forest livelihoods in villages close to Daringbadi.
Free to visit; small donations appreciated, 2h0m

5:30pm

Check-in at Daringbadi resort

Stay overnight in eco-friendly cottages surrounded by pine forests.
INR 1500, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at the resort

Enjoy organic and locally sourced meals reflecting regional tastes.
INR 350, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Ganjam to Gajapati

Day 8: Gajapati to Rayagada

Gajapati to Rayagada, Odisha on July 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at resort

Warm up with herbal tea and fresh local bread.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive Gajapati to Rayagada via forested roads

Traverse some of Odisha’s thickest forest tracts and scenic river valleys with minimal traffic.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 400, 3h0m

11:00am

Explore Majhighariani Temple and market area

A revered temple and vibrant marketplace reflecting local tribal culture. Open 6am-8pm.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local restaurant, Rayagada

Taste spicy Odia preparations popular with locals including rice and lentils.
INR 200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit nearby forest and river valley trails

Light trekking and birdwatching in peaceful natural surroundings just outside town.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Check-in at Rayagada guest house

Rest and prepare for next day’s journey into Koraput district.
INR 1000, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at guest house

Hearty meals featuring local ingredients and recipes, perfect after a day of exploration.
INR 250, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Gajapati to Rayagada

Day 9: Rayagada to Koraput

Rayagada to Koraput, Odisha on July 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at guest house

Simple breakfast with local bread and tea to start the day.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive Rayagada to Koraput on forest roads

Enjoy a picturesque drive passing through tribal villages, hills, and forest reserves.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 350, 2h30m

10:30am

Visit Gupteswar Cave and Shiva Temple

Explore the sacred cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva tucked inside forested hills. Open 8am-6pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local Koraput restaurant

Sample tribal-inspired dishes and Odia cuisine specialties unique to the region.
INR 250, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Koraput market and tribal craft centers

See exquisite hand-woven fabrics and indigenous crafts made by local tribal communities.
Free to browse; shopping optional, 1h30m

4:00pm

Check in at Koraput guest house

Enjoy peaceful rest in nature-facing accommodation.
INR 1200, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at guest house restaurant

Relish fresh, flavorful Odia dishes prepared by local chefs.
INR 300, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Rayagada to Koraput

Day 10: Koraput to Malkangiri

Koraput to Malkangiri, Odisha on July 16, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at guest house

Get ready with a filling breakfast of local ingredients.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive Koraput to Malkangiri via back forest tracks

Experience some of Odisha’s most remote forests and tribal settlements driving through hilly terrain.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 400, 3h0m

11:00am

Visit Balei Tribal Village

Cultural visit to tribal village to interact with locals and appreciate traditional ways of life.
Free; donations appreciated, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at local eatery

Enjoy simple, fresh meals made with daily picked vegetables and rice.
INR 150, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore river valley hiking trails

Walk peaceful trails highlighting Malkangiri’s rich flora and fauna along riverbanks.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Check in at Malkangiri guest house

Rest for the night in simple accommodations connected to nature.
INR 800, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at guest house

Taste tribal-inspired Odia cuisine for a deep regional experience.
INR 250, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Koraput to Malkangiri

Day 11: Malkangiri to Rourkela

Malkangiri to Rourkela, Odisha on July 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at guest house

Start with a quick meal of freshly prepared local fare.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive Malkangiri to Rourkela via scenic back roads

Head northward through dense forests and river valleys, retracing paths through scenic, peaceful landscapes.
Car fuel cost approx. INR 750, 6h0m

2:00pm

Lunch stop en route at local roadside restaurant

Relax with simple fresh meals like dal, rice, and vegetable curry.
INR 150, 1h0m

8:00pm

Arrival and check-in at Rourkela hotel

Relax in a comfortable hotel after your memorable road trip through Odisha’s forests and hills.
INR 1200, Rest of evening

8:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Swosti Grand, Rourkela

Enjoy a relaxing dinner featuring both regional and international dishes to celebrate the journey’s end.
INR 400, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Malkangiri to Rourkela

Day 12: Departure from Rourkela

Rourkela, Odisha on July 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast before heading onward with memories of Odisha's hills and forests.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Prepare for departure

Get ready for your next destination or journey after a rewarding 12-day exploration through Odisha’s beautiful natural corridors.
N/A, As needed
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