While driving along the many winding roads in the hills of Daringbadi, you’ll eventually come across something that seems very much like something from an alternate planet: the Emu farm. A little way before entering this little farm, you will also find a small and windy pond commonly referred to by locals as a hidden lake. The lake is located nestled among the pine trees and red soils of Kandhamal. Although I have no knowledge about the reason for this water’s existence; a suggestion of some importance is that it provides the birds with cool air from the water, and within their habitat, keeps them healthy in our harsh climate conditions.
In the early morning hours, the mist settles onto the pond, causing the tall trees around it to appear ghostly. It’s a simple place that will help you prepare for all of the flying giants that you are about to witness.
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ToggleThe Emu Farm is one of the Daringbadi best places to visit because it is so unusual. You are in Odisha, but then you unexpectedly discover some Australian birds. The landscape is steep and rugged and the air is thin and somewhat chilly. I remember by my visits there on Tuesday in late January, it was bright and sunny but I still would have needed a thick wool scarf to keep warm. Emuus are very tall and generally 6 foot tall. It can be rather scary when standing next to the enclosure with a large emu looking back at you with his eye. Emuus do not make a great deal of noise, but move with grace in their slow, steady manner. The heart sees what the eyes cannot see—although from far away they may be, the emuus feel at home in these mountains.
This farm is often referred to by its residents as the Emufarm Sanctuary, as it is a prime example of life on top of the mountain in Daringbadi. The atmosphere here is very tranquil and peaceful, with the staff moving at a slow, deliberate pace while carrying heavy containers of grain; the manner in which they interact with the birds demonstrates their sincere respect and reverence for these beautiful animals. If you happen to have some extra time, you should visit the neighboring Nature Park Daringbadi, which features amazing statues and a butterfly garden. I particularly remember seeing a young girl, named Laxmi, feeding the birds with her father, without saying a word but instead smiling. The actions of the people living in this area are conducted from the heart, rather than through the use of language.
The best time to experience the Mountain Road is from late November to early February when it is winter. You will find this is the easiest time to walk through the Emu Farm. Please wear shoes that offer a good grip as the paths there can be dusty and slightly slick in places. Lastly bring your own water and small bag of nuts from the local market as there are no grocery stores or convenience stores at the farm. As you walk along the fence of the Emu Farm, do so slowly; do not run or make loud noises. This is a place for being still and observing how nature adjusts to new places.
