Start early to avoid city traffic and use the day for sightseeing on arrival; road drive is ~7.5–9h depending on vehicle and stops. Book an AC private car if you prefer flexibility (pick-up 6:00am) or an AC intercity bus (check schedules and book in advance).
Arrive Koraput, check into your hotel and freshen up — aim for a centrally located hotel in Koraput town or Jeypore for easy access to restaurants and sights.
Scenic reservoir and dam with viewpoints, pleasant late-afternoon light and nearby picnic areas — ideal for photography and a short boat ride if available. Best visited before sunset; usually open daytime (approx 9:00am–6:00pm).
Browse local markets and handicraft shops for tribal baskets, coffee and textiles; great place to pick up Koraput coffee and handmade souvenirs. Most shops are open through early evening (approx 9:00pm in busy areas).
Order local specialties such as bamboo-cooked chicken (when available), ragi/mandia rotis and fish curry at your hotel or a well-reviewed local eatery — these highlight Koraput’s tribal-influenced cuisine and local produce.
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast — try local items like chuda/chiura (flattened rice) with milk, local omelette and fresh tea; most hotels serve from 7:00–10:00am.
A cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva set in a scenic location; it’s a spiritual and photogenic spot. Temple timings typically run early morning to evening (approx 6:00am–7:00pm) — mornings are cooler and less crowded.
Deomali is the highest hill in Odisha with panoramic forest and valley views; a short guided trek or walk to the viewpoint takes you through forest trails and remote villages. Best done in daylight; plan for variable road conditions and wear sturdy shoes.
Stop for a filling meal of rice, dal, sabzi and local preparations (try mandia/ ragi roti with chutney) at a trusted local dhaba or restaurant in Jeypore; fresh, homestyle flavors reflect the region’s produce.
Chatikona is known for a scenic waterfall and an active tribal market (market mornings are best but the area is still worth visiting in late afternoon). The waterfall offers a refreshing stop and market stalls sell handicrafts and forest produce.
Enjoy dinner at a recommended local restaurant or hotel — try a river-fish curry, seasonal vegetable dishes and rice; ask the staff for authentic tribal preparations available that day.
Have an early breakfast at the hotel (most places serve from 7:00am) and complete check-out procedures by 8:30am so you can squeeze in a short morning visit before departure.
Visit any nearby tribal crafts center or small local museum to learn about the customs, textiles and coffee-growing history of the area; many centers open around 9:00–10:00am — check local opening hours and plan a 1–1.5 hour visit.
Pick up Koraput coffee, spices and handicrafts; have an early lunch (rice-based set or thali) before you depart — leave some buffer time for traffic and packing.
Choose a comfortable daytime bus/train or a private car for the return trip; allow ~8–9 hours for travel back to Bhubaneswar. Overnight train options may also exist if you prefer night travel — check IRCTC or bus operators for schedules and seat availability.