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The town of Kandhamal is blessed with dense forests, scenic waterfalls, towering mountains and hospitable villagers.
The major source of income here is tea and coffee plantation and as soon as you enter this region the aroma of these brews are sure to drift by you taking you to a different world.
It is one of the untouched natural regions in India and hence tourists who travel here are advised to take a local guide along with them while exploring.
Chakapad
The village of Chakapad is known to be a religious place. The people here worship Lord Shiva as Lord Birupakshya and call themselves the followers of Saivism. There is a temple here dedicated to Lord Shiva and is visited by thousands every year. The unique feature about this temple is that everything around it; like the trees and also the Shivalinga lean toward the south. It is believed that this doing is of Lord Shiva himself.
Photo Courtesy: Odisha Tourism
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Putudi Waterfalls
Perched among thick forest and rugged rocks is the beautiful sight of the Putudi Waterfalls that fall from a height of 100 mt into the Bada Salunki river. This is a major tourist spot as many come here to enjoy the view and also indulge in other activities. You can take a boat ride on the river or find a secluded place to go fishing. You can also take a cool refreshing dip in the water, though you are warned before hand not to go too far from the banks as the strong water currents are unsafe.
Photo Courtesy: Odisha Tourism
Kalinga
The Kalinga region is known for growing various medicinal herbs. This region has several rocky hills where you can find the locals planting various herbs that are used for medicinal purpose as well as for daily cooking. You can trek to the top of the hill and enjoy the scenic view it provides of the region. It is a perfect getaway for those who want to escape the madness of the city.
Photo Courtesy: Debashis Pradhan
Phulbani
Phulbani is the administrative head of the town of Kandhamal, and offers its visitors a range of forests and mountains to explore. The Salunki River flows through here and also houses a dam called Pilsaluki. Tourists coming here can enjoy the picturesque view of the region and also take a stroll across the river bank.
Photo Courtesy: Mkar
Katramal
The Katramal region is covered with dense forests. What makes this place absolutely enthralling is the waterfall here which is surrounded by dense greenery on all sides. The sight of this waterfall is sure to leave you speechless. Also a unique feature about the waterfall is the pool that is formed below it. The fishes dwelling there are said to jump out of the water to grab small insects that hover around here. It is also a perfect place for a picnic.
Photo Courtesy: Odisha Tourism
Belghar
The region of Belghar is inhabited by the Kutia Khandas tribe. Towering mountains, dense forests and wildlife make up this place. There is a sanctuary here which protects elephants, tiger, Gaur, Sambar, spotted deer, elephant, peafowl, Red Fowl and other wide variety of reptiles. Tourists coming here can go on a safari in the sanctuary and catch glimpses of these animals. You can also mingle with the local tribal people and learn about their culture and traditions. It is also a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate yourself.
Photo Courtesy: Brian Snelson
How to Reach Kandhamal
By Air: The nearest airport to Kandhamal is the Bhubaneswar Airport which is 211 km from Kandhamal. It is well-connected with Kolkata and Delhi.
By Train: The nearest railhead to Kandhamal is the Behrampur Railway Station at a distance of 165 km. It is well-connected to Bhubaneswar, Guwahati and other nearby districts.
By Road: Kandhamal can be approached from Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur and Behrampur by road. You can either take a bus or hire a cab to reach here.
Photo Courtesy: Aditya Bhattacharjee
