On April 1, 1936, Koraput District was founded against the backdrop of verdant valleys contemplating perfect freshness. The district attracts nature lovers with woods, waterfalls, terraced slopes, and darting springs. Rayagada in the east, Bastar District in Chhatisgarh in the west, and Malkangiri District in the south define the district.
In terms of the district’s history, the Koraput region dates back to the 3rd century BC, when it was ruled by the heroic and feared Atavika people. Before the arrival of the British, the Koraput region was ruled by numerous dynasties, including the Satavahanas, Ikshvakus, Nalas, Ganga kings, and Suryavanshi kings. Koraput was finally designated as a district in 1936.
Nature appears to have a soft spot for certain areas. Koraput is one among them. The area is ideal for its picturesque hills, luscious forests, flowing streams, unusual fauna, and rich tribal heritage. Koraput is known for hosting the unique tribal celebration, Parab, which is steeped in history and legacy. It’s also known for its rich mineral reserves, which have attracted industrial behemoths to this part of Odisha.
In Koraput, the coexistence of traditional tribal life and modern industries creates a unique blend. People come here to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some serenity amid natural beauty, in addition to professors researching tribes or history and business magnates. Here are ten destinations that should be on every tourist’s bucket list.
Places to visit in Koraput
Sabara Srikhetra Jagannath Temple
Koraput’s greatest attraction is the Jagannath temple, also called Sabara Srikhetra after the Sabara tribe constructed it. The 22 stairs from the main door entrance, the “Avada” (prasad) selling centre known as Ananda Bazar, Swarga Dwara, and the other lesser temples dotting the wide premises make this shrine an identical reproduction of the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri.
There is also a lovely and well-kept garden in and surrounding the temple, which is ideal for a stroll or simply sitting in search of spiritual serenity. Koraput’s greatest attraction is the Jagannath temple, also called Sabara Srikhetra after the Sabara tribe constructed it.
The 22 stairs from the entry to the main door, the “Avada” (prasad) selling centre known as Ananda Bazar, Swarga Dwara, and the other lesser temples dotting the wide premises make this shrine an identical reproduction of the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri. There is also a lovely and well-kept garden in and surrounding the temple, which is ideal for a stroll or simply sitting in search of spiritual serenity.
Shitlakhet: Hidden Beauty of Uttarakhand (Ultimate Travel Guide)
Deomali Mountain
Deomali, the tallest mountain in Odisha, is found in the Chandragiri-Pottangi subrange of the Koraput district. The top of the mountain has a level surface, making it an ideal spot for sitting and admiring the scenic views of the hills. It’s a must-see for the adventurous, especially to enjoy the cold breeze and the lush vegetation of the tabletop mountain. It’s also a great place for selfies.
Duduma Waterfall
After the Barehipani and Khandadhar waterfalls, the 175-meter-high Duduma waterfall, formed by the Machkund River, is Odisha’s third-highest. A hydroelectric facility and a dam are also located here. This location is ideal for people who enjoy the outdoors and venture beyond the tourist trappings. Aside from the breathtaking natural beauty, visitors may learn about the Bonda tribe’s history and traditions.
Tribal Museum
The Koraput Tribal Museum was established to preserve and promote indigenous tribes’ traditional legacy, including arts, crafts, dances, and music. The museum houses a lovely collection of stone sculptures, weapons, tools, clothing, decorations, wooden objects, paintings, rare artefacts, and textiles, among other things, making it a veritable treasure trove of information about Odisha’s rich cultural legacy. The exhibits showcase tribal cultural values and their artistic, musical, and combat abilities.
Kolab Reservoir
The Kolab Reservoir is 15 kilometres from Koraput city. The massive water body is produced by the Kolab River’s backwaters and surrounded by beautiful hills, making it an ideal site for boating. The natural beauty of Kolab waterfall, also known as Bagra waterfall, is similarly spectacular, with a hypnotic panorama of lush forests and mountainous terrain.
A botanical garden with over 200 flowering plants surrounds the reservoir and waterfall. For residents of the Koraput-Jeypore region, it’s an ideal picnic spot. You must go to this location at least once to have a thrilling experience and feel revived.
Jeypore
In the past, the local kings’ capital was Jeypore, which meant “Victory City.” The town’s rich royal heritage is reflected in the historical forts, palaces, and temples that dot the landscape. The principal tourist attractions are the historic King’s Palace and surrounding fortifications. After the original Jagannath temple in Puri, the town also has the state’s second-highest Jagannath shrine. Other prominent tourist destinations in the “royal city” are Jagannath Sagar, Sewa Paper Mill, and Shree Fish Planet.
