Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Ghats, the serene hill station of Daringbadi—popularly known as the “Kashmir of Odisha”—offers misty hills, coffee plantations, dense forests, and hidden eco-tourism gems. Among these treasures lies the Emu Farm Sanctuary, Kirikuti, Daringbadi, Kandhamal, Odisha, a rare wildlife attraction that blends conservation, rural development, and responsible tourism.
Located amidst the scenic highlands of Kandhamal district, this sanctuary is not just a farm—it is a carefully nurtured habitat where emus thrive in a natural, ethical environment. Surrounded by rolling hills and aromatic spice plantations, the Emu Farm Sanctuary offers visitors a refreshing escape into nature while promoting awareness about wildlife care and sustainable agriculture.
If you are planning a trip to Daringbadi and looking for an offbeat yet educational attraction, the Emu Farm Sanctuary in Kirikuti deserves a top spot on your itinerary.
Why Daringbadi is Called the “Kashmir of Odisha”
Before exploring the sanctuary, it is important to understand the landscape that makes it so special.
Daringbadi is situated at an elevation of about 3,000 feet above sea level in Kandhamal district. The region experiences cooler temperatures throughout the year, occasional winter frost, and frequent misty mornings—hence its nickname. The surrounding hills are dotted with:
- Coffee plantations
- Black pepper and turmeric farms
- Pine and sal forests
- Waterfalls and small river valleys
- Tribal villages preserving indigenous traditions
The journey from Daringbadi town to Kirikuti village is scenic and immersive. As you travel through winding forest roads, you witness lush greenery, spice-scented air, and panoramic viewpoints that prepare you for the sanctuary experience ahead.
The Heart of the Sanctuary: A Safe Haven for Emus
The Emu Farm Sanctuary, Kirikuti, Daringbadi, Kandhamal, Odisha stands as a model for ethical wildlife management within a rural setting. Unlike commercial zoos or confined enclosures, this sanctuary has been designed to simulate a natural habitat where emus can roam, socialize, and thrive.
What Makes the Sanctuary Special?
- Spacious enclosures allowing free movement
- Natural terrain that mimics open grasslands
- Responsible breeding programs
- Focus on animal welfare and sustainability
- Educational tours for visitors
Emus, native to Australia, are large flightless birds known for their speed, curious behavior, and distinctive long necks. At the sanctuary, visitors can observe these fascinating birds up close—learning about their diet, feather texture, movement patterns, and ecological importance.
The sanctuary’s emphasis is not merely on showcasing wildlife but on promoting conservation awareness and ethical tourism. Every visit contributes to local employment and rural economic development.
A Journey Through Kandhamal’s Natural Beauty
The Emu Farm Sanctuary’s amazing location only enhances the beauty of your visit to this extraordinary animal sanctuary. Kirikuti is located among the majestic rolling hills of Daringbadi and surrounded by thick forests. The area is renowned for its coffee farms and many beautiful trees and plants, along with a mild and cool climate all year long, and has a constant mist on many days throughout the year.
There are many beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and tribal villages along the journey to the sanctuary. By the time you arrive at the Emu Farm Sanctuary, you’ve experienced a full day of being engulfed in the natural beauty of the Kandhamal District.
Engaging Activities and Ethical Encounters
One of the major attractions of the Emu Farm Sanctuary is its guided tours. These tours are designed to provide safe, interactive experiences while maintaining respect for the animals.
Activities at the Sanctuary
- Guided educational tours
- Supervised feeding sessions
- Learning about emu farming and sustainable practices
- Photography opportunities
- Nature walks around the sanctuary
Knowledgeable staff explain how emus adapt to the Kandhamal climate, their breeding cycle, and how responsible farming benefits both the birds and the local community.
For children and students, the sanctuary becomes an outdoor classroom—offering firsthand learning about biodiversity, conservation, and rural eco-entrepreneurship.
Planning Your Visit: The Complete Travel Guide
The best time to visit Emu Farm Sanctuary is between the months of October and March, when Daringbadi’s climate is the most temperate. Emu Farm Sanctuary is conveniently located within a short distance from the town of Daringbadi, and visitors should plan on wearing comfortable shoes and bringing their cameras along for the experience.
In addition to your visit, you might also want to experience some of the amazing sights around Daringbadi, such as the Doluri River and Lavender Gardens, as well as one of the area’s most beautiful sites, Maa Daringbadi Dam. By supporting the Emu Farm Sanctuary, you are supporting a model of eco-tourism that helps both the local community and the unique bird species they represent.
A Journey Through Kandhamal’s Natural Beauty
The sanctuary’s location enhances the overall experience. Kirikuti village lies amid the picturesque hills of Kandhamal, surrounded by forests and coffee estates. The area is known for:
- Mist-covered mornings
- Cool, temperate climate
- Plantation-style agriculture
- Scenic viewpoints
- Tribal cultural heritage
Visitors often combine their trip to the Emu Farm Sanctuary with nearby attractions such as:
Doluri River viewpoints
- Lavender Gardens of Daringbadi
- Maa Daringbadi Dam
- Coffee and spice plantations
- Pine forest drives
The region’s calm environment makes it ideal for slow travel, eco-tourism, and mindful exploration.
Responsible Tourism & Community Impact
The Emu Farm Sanctuary operates on principles of responsible tourism. By visiting the sanctuary, travelers directly support:
- Rural employment generation
- Sustainable agricultural models
- Wildlife care initiatives
- Community-based tourism
Unlike mass tourism hotspots, Kirikuti maintains a peaceful and eco-conscious atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to:
- Avoid littering
- Respect wildlife boundaries
- Support local plantation products
- Engage respectfully with local communities
This approach ensures that tourism benefits both the environment and the local population.
Best Time to Visit Emu Farm Sanctuary
The climate of Daringbadi remains pleasant throughout most of the year, but the ideal period for visiting the sanctuary is:
- Best Season: October to March
- Alternative Season: November to June
Winter months offer cool temperatures, misty landscapes, and clear visibility for photography.
Opening Timings
Daringbadi Emu Birds Zoo (Emu Farm Sanctuary)
- Open Daily: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
It is recommended to visit during the morning hours for the most active wildlife observation.
How to Reach Emu Farm Sanctuary, Kirikuti
By Road
Daringbadi town is well connected by road from major cities in Odisha. From Daringbadi, Kirikuti is approximately 18 km away.
Nearby Bus Stand
- Daringbadi Bus Stand – approx. 18 km from Emu Farm Sanctuary
Nearby Railway Station
- Berhampur Railway Station – approx. 141 km away
Nearest Airport
- Bhubaneswar Airport – approx. 266 km away
From these locations, taxis and private vehicles can be hired to reach Kirikuti.
Accessibility & Facilities
While the sanctuary maintains a natural setting, visitors can expect:
- Basic visitor amenities
- Parking space
- Guided tours
- Rest areas
- Nearby local eateries in Daringbadi town
Since it is located in a forested region, wearing comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended.
Why Emu Farm Sanctuary is a Must-Visit in Odisha
Unlike typical tourist attractions, the Emu Farm Sanctuary offers a unique blend of:
- Wildlife conservation
- Rural tourism
- Educational experience
- Scenic highland beauty
- Cultural immersion
It stands out among Odisha’s eco-tourism destinations because it combines wildlife interaction with sustainable practices in a peaceful rural setting.
For families, nature lovers, photographers, and responsible travelers, this sanctuary represents a meaningful and memorable experience.
Conclusion
The Emu Farm Sanctuary near Kirikuti represents the ideal of living in harmony with nature. The sanctuary is not a mere tourist attraction; rather, it provides insight into wildlife conservation while taking place in the beautiful landscapes of Odisha’s highlands. This is where people can experience the feel of an emu and the calmness of the Kandhamal hills, resulting in an experience that is full of love and will create an everlasting memory.
The Emu Farm Sanctuary not only provides a place to view animals, but it also tells a story of compassion, making it an essential destination for all responsible travelers who are searching for the hidden treasures that Odisha has to offer.
