Escape the Ordinary: Find Your Peace at Parikhi Beach in Odisha

Sick of doing the same weekend getaway to Puri or Gopalpur? Break away from the throngs and discover the unspoiled charm of Parikhi, a hidden beach gem just beyond Balasore in Odisha. Perfect for a last-minute one-night getaway, Parikhi is a refreshing respite with a hint of wildness and peace.

Begin your journey early on a Saturday morning by taking a bus or taxi ride from Bhubaneswar to Balasore. Then it’s an hour’s drive of about 20 kilometres through beautiful scenery to Parikhi. What’s in store is a vast expanse of virgin beach lined by casuarina forests and a dramatic red crab habitat, nature’s own painting.

Parikhi is blissfully free of the throng and din. Walk barefoot on the golden beach, hear the waves pound, and bask in the serene ambiance. Travel with friends, your partner, or family, the tranquility here is infectious. As sunset approaches, head back to one of the limited camps in the vicinity. Enjoy the night with a warm barbecue under the night sky.

On Sunday morning, after breakfast, go out to discover more. Visit Buribalam, where you can take a boat ride through its peaceful mangrove creeks, an alternative experience at little more than ₹500 per head. If time permits, a detour to the retreating sea of Chandipur adds to the experience.

A Parikhi weekend is not only refreshing but also pocket-friendly. With train ticket prices affordable from bhubaneswar and nature camp accommodations at less than ₹3,500 (including food), the whole trip can be completed below ₹5,000. If you like road trips, Parikhi is roughly 5-6 hours away from Bhubaneswar.

Come whenever except peak summer and allow Parikhi’s silence to touch your soul.