Beyond the well-trodden paths of Daringbadi's pine forests and coffee gardens lies a world of secret waterfalls — cascading ribbons of crystal-clear water hidden inside dense tropical and semi-evergreen forests of the Eastern Ghats. These aren't the kind of falls you'll find on tourist maps or Google reviews. They require a bit of effort, a willingness to explore, and a good pair of trekking shoes.
The reward? Pristine natural pools, the thunderous music of falling water, and the kind of solitude that's increasingly rare in modern India. Here's our guide to the most enchanting hidden waterfalls near Daringbadi.
1. Midubanda Waterfall
Tucked away approximately 12 km from Daringbadi town, Midubanda is perhaps the most dramatic waterfall in the region. The water plunges over 100 feet down a sheer rock face into a deep, emerald-green pool surrounded by moss-covered boulders and towering bamboo groves.
The trek to Midubanda takes about 45 minutes through dense forest and is moderately challenging — the trail is narrow, sometimes muddy, and not well-marked. But the moment you hear the distant roar of the falls growing louder with each step, you know it's worth every effort.
"Midubanda doesn't just reveal itself — you have to earn it. And that's exactly what makes arriving there so breathtaking."
Best season: July to October, when the water volume is at its peak. Carry water, wear sturdy shoes, and consider hiring a local guide.
2. Dasingbadi Falls
Located about 18 km southeast of Daringbadi, Dasingbadi Falls is a series of stepped cascades rather than a single dramatic plunge. The water tumbles over layers of weathered rock, creating natural jacuzzi-like pools at each level — perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
The surrounding forest is rich with wildlife — you might spot Malabar giant squirrels, kingfishers, and if you're quiet and lucky, the flash of a paradise flycatcher's tail. The approach is a gentle 30-minute walk through sal and teak forest, making it accessible even for families.
Best season: June to November. The stepped pools are most inviting from August onwards.
3. Putudi Waterfall
Putudi is a relatively unknown gem located near the tribal settlement of Putudi village, about 15 km from Daringbadi. The waterfall is modest in height — about 40 feet — but what makes it special is the setting: the water falls into a natural amphitheater of curved rock, surrounded by wild orchids, ferns, and ancient fig trees.
The acoustics of the rock amphitheater amplify the sound of the water, creating a mesmerizing natural soundtrack. Local tribal families often use the stream below for bathing and washing, giving the place a warm, lived-in authenticity that manicured tourist spots lack.
Best season: Year-round, though the waterfall is most photogenic during and just after the monsoon.
4. Lover's Point Cascade
Not to be confused with the popular viewpoint, the Lover's Point Cascade is a seasonal waterfall that appears only during the heavy monsoon months (July–September). Water streams down a near-vertical cliff face about 8 km from the town center, creating a shimmering curtain visible from the road below.
While you can't trek to the base of this particular fall (the terrain is too steep), there's a clearing about halfway up from where the view is spectacular — the falls in the foreground, the valley stretching out behind you, and on clear days, the distant shimmer of the plains below.
Best season: July to September only — this is a purely monsoon waterfall.
5. Belghar Gorge Falls
The most adventurous option on this list, Belghar Gorge Falls is located deep inside the Belghar Wildlife Sanctuary, about 25 km from Daringbadi. The falls drop into a narrow, cathedral-like gorge carved by millennia of water erosion — the rock walls rise 80 feet on either side, draped in moss, creepers, and epiphytic ferns.
Reaching the gorge requires a 2-hour trek and a forest department permit. The trail passes through some of the most pristine forest in all of Odisha — old-growth trees, natural springs, and an almost eerie silence broken only by birdsong and the distant sound of water.
Best season: October to December — the gorge is dangerous during peak monsoon due to flash flood risk. Post-monsoon offers the best combination of water flow and safe access.
Essential Tips for Waterfall Trekking
- Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes with grip — rocks are slippery year-round
- Guide: Hire a local tribal guide for any trek beyond 5 km — they know the terrain and the wildlife
- Timing: Start early (before 7 AM) to avoid afternoon heat and ensure you return before dusk
- Essentials: Carry at least 2 litres of water, energy bars, a basic first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone
- Respect: Leave no trace — carry all trash back, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect tribal settlements
Your Base Camp for Waterfall Adventures
The Foothill Farmstay is ideally located for exploring all the waterfalls on this list. After a day of trekking through forests and wading through streams, return to the comfort of a handcrafted luxury cottage — hot shower, farm-to-table dinner, and the quiet of the hills. Our team can also help arrange local guides and transport for your waterfall expeditions.
