Similipal National Park, Mayurbhanj, Odisha (Orissa).
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Simlipal National Park, Odisha (Orissa) Simlipal Wildlife – Taking its name from the abundance of semul or red silk cotton trees that bloom vividly here, the Simlipal National Park is home to three of India’s biggest animal species –Tiger, Asian Elephant and Gaur. Spread over a sprawling area of 2750 sq. kms, the park is at an altitude of 559.31 meters. Set on a wide expanse of Sal forest, this park is nestled in the very centre of Mayurbhanj, the northernmost district of Orissa. Notable variations in topography, conducive climate and required vegetation has supported large varieties of animals, birds and reptiles to flourish in one of the earliest and finest of India’s 15 Tiger reserves falling under Project Tiger.
A forested, hilly terrain 200 km south-west of Kolkata, the reserve is endowed with an exceptional biodiversity. Of the reserve‘s almost 1,000 species of flowering plants, 94 are orchids, many of which are on show at the small display at Gurguria. The reserve remains open from mid October to mid June.
An entry permit needs to be taken from the office of Assistant Conservator of Forest, National Park, Jashipur or from the Range Officer, Pithabata at Pithabata. Check Gate to visit the reserve. The tourists can explore the reserve from 0600 to 1200 hours in the day. This time is extended by two hours for the reservation holders and is 0600 to 1400 hours.
With the nearest airports being at 250 and 300 kms at Calcutta and Bhubaneshwar respectively, the reserve is 76 kms away from Lulung and 115 kms from Jashipur. The fauna at the Park including tiger, leopard, elephants, bison, sambar, porcupine, pangolin, flying-squirrel, hill myna, hornbill and pythons can be observed closely by exploring the reserve in private jeeps and cars. But before going on any such expedition, the tourists are advised to take an anti-malarial drug.
Simplipal National Park, a tract of total wilderness is spread over an 845 sq km core area. In the ancient days, this reserve was the hunting preserve of the Mayurbhanj maharajas. As a result of excessive hunting, the wildlife here was seriously damaged. And then it was in the year 1957 that a small area of it was declared a sanctuary.
Today, the tiger reserve extends over 2,750 sq. km, within a larger area of 4,374 sq km that constitutes the biosphere reserve. But unfortunately, the tribal communities here still indulge in an annual ritual hunt (akhand shikar) with bows and arrows. To add more to the woes of the animals, encroachment, livestock grazing, poaching and indifferent visitors are also there. But the management of the reserve has managed to sustain a vast variety of wild life here despite nature’s resilience. Better funding for effective protection and awareness is therefore required at this stage to sustain healthy numbers of animals.
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Nandan Kanan, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
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Nandankanan Zoological Park is a 400-hectare (990-acre) zoo and botanical garden in Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India. Established in 1960, it was opened to the public in 1979 and became the first zoo in India to join World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) in 2009. It also contains a botanical garden and part of it has been declared a sanctuary. Nandankanan, literally meaning ‘The Garden of Heavens’, is located near the capital city, Bhubaneswar, in the environs of the Chandaka forest, and includes the 134-acre (54 ha) Kanjia Lake. A major upgrade was done during 2000 (after the ruins caused by the super-cyclone of 1999 in coastal Orissa). More than 2 million visitors visit Nandankanan every year.
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Ratnagiri, Jajpur, Odisha
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Ratnagiri (Odia: ରତ୍ନଗିରି) was once the site of a mahavihara, or major Buddhist monastery, in the Brahmani and Birupa river valley in Jajpur district of Orissa, India. It was part of the Puspagiri University, together with Lalitgiri and Udayagiri.
History Ratnagiri was established no later than the reign of the Gupta king Narasimha Baladitya in the first half of the sixth century CE, and flourished until the twelfth century CE. A Tibetan history, the Pag Sam Jon Zang, identifies Ratnagiri as an important center in the development of the Kalachakratantra in the 10th century CE, an assertion supported by the discovery of a number of votive stupas, plaques, and other artifacts featuring Kalachakra imagery.
A large-scale excavation was conducted at the site between 1958 and 1961, uncovering much of what is known today. The main stupa dates to the 9th century AD and was likely built on the site of an earlier, Gupta-era stupa. Seals were found bearing the legend “Sri Ratnagiri Mahavihariya Aryabikshu Sanghasya,” which helped identify it. Prominent, well-persevered standing statues of the bodhisattvas Vajrapani and Padmapani can be found in niches in a portico. Monastery No. 2 features a central paved courtyard flanked by a pillared veranda around which are eighteen cells, a central shrine featuring an image of Shakyamuni in varada mudra flanked by Brahma and Sakra, and elaborately ornamented entrance porticos.
According to Amit Jha, a lecturer in the Department of History at Sri Aurobindo College, Delhi University, “Ratnagiri comprises two magnificent monasteries, also rebuilt more than once. One of them was double-storyed and had an extensive courtyard with two-sides of it having a number of cells for habitation of monks. Besides, we have archaeological remains of six temples, thousands of small stupas, 1386 seals, myriad sculptural relics and architectural pieces of daily use. The largest stupa was 47 feet (14 m) square and 17 feet (5.2 m) high surrounded by four minor stupas. There are hundreds of miniature votive stupas decorated with lotus, petal and beaded tassels.” A museum now located on the site displays statuary featuring Tara, Avalokiteshvara, Aparajita, and Hariti have also been found, all in prototypical of Gupta style.
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Sapta Sajya , Dhenkanal, Odisha
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One can proceed 12 km in the Sankarpur road from Dhenkanal Bus stop and then turn west at the Badagila chowk and pass two km to reach Saptya Sajya a scenic beauty where the holy temple of Maryada Purusottama Sri Ramachandra is located at about 900 feet at the hilltop. A mountains stream flows down as if touching his holly feet in veneration. Mythologically this place is important and many legends are still available. Its name is Sapta Sajya because, there are seven hills surrounding the area. Again there is story that, the Saptarashi had their ashramas here in this place.
There is also a mythological story, that, Sriram during his exiled or Vanabasha had spent seven days in this beautiful spot. Secondly the Pandavas during their 12 years of exile and one year of Agyanta Vasa had chosen this mountains for shelter. The Govt. constructed the Pukka road way in 1982. Inside the temple complex Maa Annapurna temple was constructed in 1982, the 1st floor Kalki temple in 1985, the Surya Narayan temple in 1990.
Now the temple of Sri Rameswaram Shiva, Sri Ganesh, Sri Mahavir, and the Nabagrah Temple with each room for each graha are found. Mahakali, Mata Saraswati, Sri Nrushingha temple are conceived to be built in the holy complex. This scenic spot has become a good tourist and picnic spot where thousands of tourists and devotees gather from different corners of Odisha and India.
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Khandadhar 1 , Keonjhar, Odisha
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The Khandadhar Falls is located at Nandapani in Sundergarh district in the Indian state of Orissa. It is the 12th highest waterfall in India.
Location
The Khandadhar Falls is 104 kilometres (65 mi) from Rourkela via Bonaigarh, and 60 kilometres (37 mile) from Kendujhar.
It is a perennial horse tail type waterfall. The Korapani Nala, a small stream, plunges from a height of 244 metres (801 ft) in a single drop.
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Kalijai Temple, Chilika, Odisha
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Kalijai Temple is located on an island in Chilika Lake. It is considered to be the abode of the Goddess Kalijai. Highly revered by the local populace, the deity has been venerated in the local folklores and legends. The island provides an excellent destination for pilgrims as well as tourists. Every year in January, a huge gala fair is held during the festival of Makar Sankranti.
Legend
A girl was newly married and was going to her husband in a boat.As her in-law’s house was inside an island in Chilika Lake it took a lot of time to reach.Orissa coast is much prone to Cyclones and suddenly such a cyclone came and the boat drowned inside the lake.All the Boatmen with her father were alive except that Girl Jaai undiscovered.After the accidental death of that newly wed girl whose name was Jaai she became goddess of people residing nearby area.And till now she is worshipped as an Amsa of Kali,hence the name of the place.
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Baliharchandi, Puri, Odisha
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27 km to the south-west of Puri is the temple of Baliharachandi. Situated on a sandy hill near the sea and adjacent to the mouth of the river Bhargavi, Goddess Durga is worshipped here as Baliharachandi. The scenic beauty of this place is ideal for group picnic.
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Khandagiri, Bhubaneswar, Khurdha, Odisha
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Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves(Odia: ଉଦୟଗିରି ଓ ଖଣ୍ଡ଼ଗିରି ଗୁମ୍ଫା) are partly natural and partly artificial caves of archaeological, historical and religious importance near the city of Bhubaneswar in Orissa, India. The caves are situated on two hills Udayagiri and Khandagiri, mentioned as Kumari Parvat in Hathigumpha inscription and face each other across the road.
They have a number of finely and ornately carved caves. It is believed that most of these caves were carved out huge residential blocks for the Jain monks, during the reign of King Kharavela. Udayagiri meaning Sunrise Hill, has 18 caves while Khandagiri has 15 caves.
The caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri, called lena or leṇa in the inscriptions, were dug out mostly during the reign of Kharavela for the abode of Jaina ascetics. The most important of this group is Ranigumpha in Udayagiri which is a double storeyed monastery. Unfortunately, a number of the Jaina caves on the Khandagiri side have encroachment problems, with local Brahmins turning them into Hindu shrines and covering up some of the Jaina iconography.
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Daringbadi, Balliguda, Phulbani, Odisha
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Daringbadi,a Plateu and a beautiful area.The height is 3000ft above sea level. It is an ideal summer resort which is popularly known as Kashmir of Odisha or the heaven of odisha. This place is gifted with natural scenery like pine trees, coffee gardens and beautiful valleys.
It is the only place in Orissa which experiences snow fall during Winter season. Journy to the hills of Daringbadi is an experience in itself. This pretty hill station is hundred kilometres from Phulbani and fifty kilometres from Balliguda.
The resting places are P.W.D. Inspection Bunglow. It is near from the capital of odisha.The tourists will visit this place easity with their own vehicles,bus,train,and also aeroplane.The journey from the plains to the hills of Daringbadi is an experience in itself.
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Paradeep Port, Jagatsinghpur, Odisha
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The importance of Paradeep and its beach is manifold. Besides being an attractive tourist spot, the Paradeep beach in Orissa is also one of the most important commercial sea port of the country. Paradeep which is actually an estuary of the Mahanadi River, is one of the most popular beaches of Orissa. Covered by green forests and adorned with natural creeks and island, the Paradeep beach is a paradise for all marine lovers.
Paradip Port is a major seaport in Orissa, which is considered to be one of the largest ports on the eastern coast of India. During 2009 – 2010, this port recorded the handling of over 57 million tonnes of cargo, including thermal coal and iron ore.
It is also the chief sea-borne trade centre in the Bay of Bengal, whose foundation stone was laid in 1962 by the then Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Paradip Port has also been specially mechanised with iron ore berths, cargo berths, container handling facilities and coal handling plants. Close to the port lies the Paradip Beach at the convergence of the Mahanadi River and the Bay of Bengal.
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Kolab Dam, Koraput, Odisha
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At an altitude of about 3000 ft. above sea level on river Kolab, stands the majestic Kolab Reservoir generating Hydro Electric Power.15 km from Koraput, the river Kolab makes a spectacular jump at Bagra to form a reservoir called the “Upper Kolab Irrigation Project”. An ideal place for an outing, it is also a panacea for city dwellers.
Kolab Botanical Garden stands beside the Majestic Kolab reservoir is ideal for weekend picnic for people all over the district. This place is highly admired for its scenic beauty, attracting tourists for weekend picnic and boating. Kolab Botanical Garden stands beside the Majestic Kolab reservoir is ideal for weekend picnic for people all over the district.
This place is highly admired for its scenic beauty, attracting tourists for weekend picnic and boating. The well maintained botanical garden has over 200 varieties of flowering plants. Even the night view of the reservoir is worth experiencing.
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Duduma Waterfall, Koraput, Odisha
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The majestic waterfall, also known as Matsya Tirtha falls from a height of 175 meters. A hydro electric project with its winch developed amidst deep greenery is a place for pleasure.Three KMs away from Duduma waterfall, a small village of Ankadeli draws the attention of foreign tourists to its weekly markets on Thursdays where the most primitive tribe the Bondas, come from the remote, inaccessible dense forest.Jolaput is known for its newly constructed dam reservoir. The lake formed by the dam is 68.2 Sq. Kms. Its a picnic spot, 88 Kms from Koraput.
It is 165 Mts. from Visakhapatnam on the river Machkund are the biggest water falls of Andhra Pradesh. The water is diverted into the Machkund reservoir and the over flow subsequently run throught a caryon. The Dumduma Falls on the River Machhakunda is one of the most popular tourist spot in Orissa. The Dumduma Falls is also known as the Matsya Tirtha and it is the site of the famous Machhakund Hydro-Electric Project. The Dumduma Falls in the Eastern Ghats drops from a height of about 157 meters and is categorized as a horsetail falls.
Investigation and research on the Dumduma Falls began in the year 1941 when the plan for generating hydro-electric power was chalked out. It was around the year 1946, that the scheme was implemented. 104cfs are drawn from the Dumduma hydro electrical plant which hints at the fact that that this waterfall in Orissa is still very active.
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Gupteswar Temple, Koraput, Odisha
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Gupteswar is a cave temple located on the banks of Kolab River, about 80 km from Koraput.Important cave shrine of Lord Shiva Situated on a lime stone hill amidst scenic bliss.
The temple houses a sacred swayambhu Shivling called Gupteswar, which literally means the ‘Hidden God.
Shivratri is the major festival celebrated here amidst much pomp and splendor.
The fame of the temple is not restricted to Orissa but it is also well known in other parts of the country. The people of Chhattisgarh refer to the shrine by the name Gupta Kedar. Gupteswar can be reached through a forest tract which starts from the east of the Ramagiri Hill up to a distance of 19 km.
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Tikarpada, Angul, Odisha
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Satkosia wildlife sanctuary is one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in India as well as very important eco-tourism site. The down stream of River Mahanadi after Hirakud Dam flows through a stunning 22KM narrow gorge (1,500 to 2,500 ft high) of Satkosia before falling into the Bay of Bengal.It is located in the districts of Angul, Nayagarh and Boudh. The Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary is extended in an area of 745.52 sq.km. with a rare place of beauty where nature is generously bountiful in all its forms of flora and fauna. Here, the River Mahanadi divides the entire area into two parts which are accessible from two separate districts- Nayagarh and Boudh. On the south of the river is a high range of hills and on the north are the mountainous parts of Athamallik and Angul subdivsions. The scenic beauty of Satkosia with its undulating mountain skyline is mesmerising. The sylvan beauty of the forest with captivating fragrance is simply bewildering.
The meandering Mahanadi flowing closeby amidst bountiful hills, forms here the mightiest gorge of India, twenty-two km long. The nature camp is located on the banks of Mahanadi. The camps have 10 tents with separate toilet facility (Indian style) on the back of the each tent. Each tent has two camp type beds, comfortable enough for a good night sleep. Blankets are provided as it gets real chilly in the winter times. 5 of the tents are called Gharials (alligators) and 5 of the other ones are called Maggars (crocodiles).
It is acclaimed as one of the World’s most enchanting spot. The place is ideal for boating, angling and adventure. The forests and hills around the village have varieties of fauna to fascinate the visitors. A Gharial Crocodile Sanctuary, setup here, has enhanced the importance of the place.
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Hirakud Dam, Sambalpur, Odisha
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Hirakud Dam built on Mahanadi River is the longest dam in India. The overall length of the main dam is 4.8 km, and the total length is 25.8km with dam and dykes taken together. The dam is about 15 km upstream of Sambalpur town in State of Orissa and was the first post independence major multipurpose river valley project in India. The dam irrigates 436000 ha of CCA in Mahanadi delta and has an installed capacity of 307.5 MW. Hirakud Dam is a composite structure of Earth, Concrete and Masonry. Hirakud Dam intercepts 83400 sq. km (32200 sq miles) of Mahanadi catchments. It has a reservoir spread of 743 sq km at full reservoir level and the reservoir has a storage of 5818 M. Cum with gross of 8136 M Cum.
Hirakud Dam is built across the Mahanadi River, about 15 km from Sambalpur in the state of Orissa in India. Built in 1956, the dam is the worlds largest earthen dam.[1] Behind the dam extends a lake, Hirakud Reservoir, 55 km long. Hirakud Dam is one of the longest dams in the world, about 16 mi (26 km) in length. It was the first major multipurpose river valley project started after Indias independence.Construction history.
Before the devastating floods of 1937, Sir M. Visveswararya proposed a detailed investigation for storage reservoirs in the Mahanadi basin to tackle the problem of floods in the Mahanadi delta. In 1945, under the chairmanship of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the then Member of Labour, it was decided to invest in the potential benefits of controlling the Mahanadi for multi-purpose use. The Central Waterways, Irrigation and Navigation Commission took up the work
KHURDA DISTRICT
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Kedareswar Temple :
Dedicated to Siva (who is also called the Kedareswar) and Goddess Gouri, the temple is situated within the same premises next to the Mukteswar Temple. The legend goes that king Lalatendu Kesari, after a tragic episode relating to two lovers Kedar and Gouri, had built this temple in their memory.
Svarnajalesvara temple :
The Svarnajalesvara temple, since restored is located near the Kotitirtha tank and temple. It is a replica of the deul of the Parasuramesvara temple , both architecturally and sculpturally.
The three ruined temples, commonly known as Lakshmaneswar, Bharateswar and Satrughneswar , standing in a row opposite and the much later Rameswar temple are generally regarded as the earliest temples, being assigned to the closing of the sixth or beginning of the seventh century A.D.
Brahmesvara :
According to an inscription originally attached with the temple (now missing), the temple was built to enshrine a linga called Brahmesvara by Kolavati, the mother of Somavamsi king Uddyotakesari, in the latter’s eighteenth regnal year at a locality known as Siddhatirtha at Ekamra. Thus the temple provides a datum-line in the chronology of Orissan architecture.
Megheswar :
According to an inscription the Meghesvara temple along with the tank near it, came into existence at the instance of Svapnesvara, brother-in-law of the Ganga king Rajaraja (circa A.D.1171-92) during the reign of the latter’s brother Anangabhima (circa A.D.1192-95).
Parasurameswar :
This is the best preserved specimen of the early group of Orissan temples assignable to the 7th century A.D. It has a flat roofed rectangular pillared hall (Jagamohana) attached to a “Triratha” Sanctum (Deul) about 12.8 metres high, which carried a squat heavy-shouldered Sikhara. Its carvings are known for their simple charm.
Rajarani :
Picturesquely set the Rajarani temple is a combination of grace and elegance, famous alike for its sculptural embellishments and the unusual formation of its tower. Facng east, the double amlas, crowning some of the anga-sikharas are reminiscent of the Kandariya Mahadeva temple of Khajuraho. Built in the 11th century the specialty of this temple is that it has no presiding deity.
Siddeshwar :
Signaling the end of the first phase and anticipating the second phase, the Mukteswar temple, facing west is an important landmark in the progressive course of the architectural movement in Bhubaneswar. To the north-west of the Mukteswar temple is the Siddhesvara temple. The temple is a specimen of the khakhara Order, in which the emergence of the typical Orissan form is almost complete.
Lingaraj temple :
The product of the accumulated and crystallized experience of several centuries, the Lingaraj temple, built in 617-657 A.D., is the quintessence of Orissan architecture. In the elegance of its proportions and the richness of its surface-treatment, it is one of the most finished and refined manifestation of temple architecture in India.
Dhauli :
The Peace Pagoda built by the Kalinga Nippon Budha Sangha in 1973 and known as Shanti Stupa commemorates the change of heart of Emperor Ashok and the journey of budhism to the nation. There are two temples at Dhauli. One of Vairangeswar Mahadev and Dhabaleswar Mahadev. The proclamations of Emperor Achok are recorded in prakrit language in bhramin script on the rock of Dhauli on the Southeast end.
District Headquarter : Khordha
State Capital : Bhubaneswar
Nearest Railway Station : Bhubaneswar
Nearest Airport : Bhubaneswar
How to Reach :
The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhuwaneswar, which is 6 km away. Well connected by rail to all major tour destinations of the country. Bhubaneswar is on the National Highway linking Kolkata 480 km to Chennai 1225 km. There are only a few buses specifically plying to the caves but there are plenty going by the near by road junction. Otherwise you can also avail private cars and taxis from Bhuwaneswar station
NandanKanan :
Nandan Kanan National Park is situated 20 Km from Bhubaneswar, capital city of Odisha, India. The name Nandan Kanan means Garden of Pleasure, which gets justified when one enters the park. Along the banks of Lake Kanjia and amidst natural forest, is located. The Zoo has earned International Reputation for breeding of white royal Bengal tiger in captivity and has two separate safaris for Lions and Tigers.
There is a Botanical Garden on the northern side of the zoological park overlooking the Kanjia Lake which is a resort of delight for the boating lover. Elepahant Ride, toy train and ropeway amusements are also available in the Park District Headquarter : Khordha
State Capital : Bhubaneswar
Nearest Railway Station : Bhubaneswar
Nearest Airport : Bhubaneswar
How to Reach :
The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhuwaneswar, which is 6 km away. Well connected by rail to all major tour destinations of the country. Bhubaneswar is on the National Highway linking Kolkata 480 km to Chennai 1225 km. There are only a few buses specifically plying to the caves but there are plenty going by the near by road junction. Otherwise you can also avail private cars and taxis from Bhuwaneswar station
District Headquarter : Khordha
State Capital : Bhubaneswar
Nearest Railway Station : Barang
Nearest Airport : Bhubaneswar
How to Reach :
The nearest airport is the Biju Pattnaik Airport. Bhubaneswar about 20 km from Nandankanan. One can hire taxi directly from the Airport to reach the destination . The nearest railway station to Nandankanan is Barang Station which 3 kms from Nandankannan but the express and superfast trains normally do n0t halt here. It is advisable for the tourists to drop at Bhubaneswar Station it is near about 15kms from Nandankanan and hire Taxi, Auto rickshaw to reach Nandankanan. The city Buses are also available near the Rly Station From which Travelers can get direct Bus to Nandankanan. Bhubaneswar is well connected to other parts of the state. A number of City buses and town buses are available from Bhubaneswar to Nandankanan.
Khandagiri :
The Khandagiri and Udayagiri Craves relive the memories of Kalinga Empire under the Jain emperor Kharvela. There are about 40 rock cut cave adoring the two hills separated by a road.
It is believed that the founder of Jain faith, Mahavir had visited Udayagiri and khandagiri in the 6th Century B.C. Modern scholars are found in Rani and Hati Gumpha in the Udayagiti with description of the culture of dance in Orissa as far before as the 2nd century B.C.
Modern scholars are of the opinion that the Udayagiri cave complex was also a theatre complex. Emperor Kharvela was a staunch and a great patron of culture. It is possible that he had created the caves for use of Jain ascetics as well as for cultural shows.
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Thakurani hill :
It is situated by the side of a perennial spring of Thakurani hill in Champua Sub Division of Keonjhar District. It is famous for the temple of Murga Mahadev. No accommodation facilities is available at the spot. Murga Mahadev is well known for its cascading waterfall that casts a magical spell on the local citizens and tourists as well.
The spot is 70 kms. From Keonjhar of this 6 kms, fair weather road. Regular service buses are available upto Bileipada 64 kms from Keonjhar. Tourist will have to stay either at Joda 11 kms or at Keonjhar 70 kms.
50 kms. from Keonjhar town on the N.H.215 towards Cuttack, the place is known through the state for the shrine of Goddess Tarini Pitha. The place is famous as a centre of pilgrimage for Goddess Tarini. A P.W.D. I.B., Tarini Yatri niwas of Tarini Trust and a Panthasala of Tourism Deptt. Are available to cater the accommodation facilities.
Ghatagaon :
Ghatagaon is only 50 km from Keonjhar town. Tourists visiting Ghatagaon have to pick the bus Services from Bhubaneswar to Keonjhar. Tourists travelling by bus can find also direct bus services to Ghatagaon Pitha Mandir.
Those who travel by train the nearest Railway Station is Harichandanpur(17 K.M. From Ghatagaon).Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is the only civil airport in the state connected to different parts of the country through regular flights. The major cities connected to Bhubaneswar are Kolkata, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. From Bhubaneswar very good road transport facility is available to reach the Temple of MAA.
Keonjhar/Telkoi, India, August 27, 2012: In a major initiative for empowerment of the local community and make the youth employable, Essar Steel today started an Industrial Training Centre relfecting the basic tenet of corporate philosohpy of growing business with local area development. The Essar Industrial Training Centre (ITC).
Gonasika :
Surrounded by a series of valleys and wooded hills of varying colours, the place is famous as a centre of pilgrimage for the temple of Brahmeswar Mahadev established by the side of river Baitarani. In fact, this is the place from where the river starts flowing.
A little away from the point of origin, the river goes underground and hence called guptaganga only to be seen jumping after a short distance over a stone projection looking like the nostril of a cow. The scenic beauty of the place is simply charming. For accommodation tourists will have to stay at Keonjhar town.
It is 33 kms. from Keonjhar out of which service buses are available for 24 kms. for rest 9 kms tourist will have to go by either foot or hired vehicles.
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keonjhar hill :
A quiet hillside town, Keonjhar district is the playground of nature, away from the hoards of tourists that throng to popular hill stations.The place thus presents an exotic mix of natural beauty alongwith intoxicating peace and serenity of humming river to the visitors which remain to be explored by the visitors.
Keonjhar enjoys a hospitable climate, cool almost through the year round. Surrounded by hills and forests that are home to bears and other wild animals, Keonjhar reveals a whole new world of breathtaking beauty and scenic locals that can never be associated with any coal mining town.
Bhimkund :
It is a beautiful natural water reservoir on the River Baitarani. It is located exactly on the boundary line between the districts Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj, at a distance of about 100 km from Keonjhar. This reservoir is two storeyed which resulted into the formation of two waterfalls one above another.
It is being told that, Bhima, the second Pandava had taken bath in this reservoir and hence it was named after him.During Makar Festival in the month of January thousands of people gather here to take their holy dip.
The place can be approached from Dhenkikote (20 Kms.) on State Highway No 11 connecting Keonjhar and Panikoili. The place is ideal for picnickers.
Sanghagra :
It is a perennial waterfall. The Machha Kandana, a small river, plunges from a height of 30.5 metres (100 ft) in two drops. It is a small (100 ft. high) and beautiful waterfall, suitable for outing. The area is spread over 488 Ha. In a hilly tract with characteristic mixed deciduous and miscellaneous type of forest vegetation.
The famous Sanaghagara waterfall with perennial stream adds to the natural beauty of this forest tract and attracts large number of visitors throughout the year. The area is an extremely undulating terrain with hills, pediments and a “V” shaped narrow valley. The hills and pediments are very steep and the rock formation is of Doleritic and Granitic origin.
Badaghagara :
Badaghagara is located at a distance of 9 km from the district headquarters (Kendujhar) of Kendujhar district. Being a perennial source of water, a dam has constructed on the downstream side. It is situated at a distance of 3 kilometers on the downstream of Sanaghagara Waterfalls.
Badaghagara :
It is famous for a small charming waterfall about 50 ft. high on the river Mudala being situated amidst lush green forest. It is ideal for picnic during winter.
It is 65 km from Keonjhar via Ghatagaon. For accommodation a revenue rest shed at Harichandanpur 5 km and PWD I.B.,tarini Yatri Niwas and Panthasala of Tourism Deptt. Are available at Ghatagaon.
Sitabinj :
30 km from district Head quarter. Situated by the side of river Sita the spot has gained prominence as a place of having ancient fresco painting on a rock shelter called Ravan Chhaya which is looking like a half opened umbrella. The painting depicts a royal procession.
It is 30 Kms from Keonjhar.5 kms. On Jajpur to Keonjhar road upto Katarabeda and 5 kms. from there. Tourists visitingSitabinj have to pick the bus Services from Bhubaneswar to Keonjhar. Tourist can also choose hired Autorickshaw and Other Vehicles are available at Keonjhar to visit the spot.
PURI DISTRICT
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Jagannath Temple :
The Jagannath Temple in is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Jagannath (Vishnu) and located in the coastal town of Puri in the state of Odisha, India. The name Jagannath (Lord of the Universe) is a combination of the Sanskrit words Jagat (Universe) and Nath (Lord of). The Jagannath Temple is an important pilgrimage destination for many Hindu traditions, particularly worshippers of Krishna and Vishnu, and part of the Char Dham pilgrimages that a Hindu has to be visited in one’s lifetime.
Konark Sun Temple :
Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century Sun Temple (also known as the Black Pagoda) at Konark, in Odisha, India. It was supposedly built by king Narasimhadeva I of Eastern Ganga Dynasty around 1250. It has been built in the shape of a gigantic chariot with elaborately carved stone wheels, pillars and walls. A major part of the structure is now in ruins. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is also featured on NDTV’s list of Seven Wonders of India and Times of India’s list of Seven Wonders of India.
The name Konark derives from the combination of the Sanskrit words, Kona (corner) and Arka (sun), in reference to the temple which was dedicated to the Sun god Surya.
The monument was also called the Black Pagoda by European sailors. In contrast, the Jagannath Temple in Puri was called the White Pagoda. Both temples served as important landmarks for the sailors.
Chandrabhaga :
At about 3 kms from the Sun Temple at Konark is the Chandrabhaga beach. The strong currents do not make it either safe or easy for swimming. But the picturesque view of the sunrise and sunset at this place is enchanting.
For tourists can be availed at Konark, which is just 2km away from Chandrabhaga beach. Hotels in Chandrabhaga are available with all basic amenities.
District Headquarter : Puri
State Capital : Bhubaneswar
Nearest Railway Station : Puri
Nearest Airport : Bhubaneswar
How to Reach :
By Air Biju pattnaik Airport is the nearest airport and is situated just 65 km away at Bhubaneswar. By Rail There are no direct trains to Chandrabhaga.
The nearest railway points are at Puri that is just 35 km away from Chandrabhaga and Bhubaneswar that is 65 km away.
By Road The place is connected to Bhubaneswar and Puri by excellent road. Taxis and buses ply at regular intervals from these cities to Chandrabhaga.
Sakhigopal :
Sakhigopal, located at distance of nearly 10 to 20 kilometers from Puri, is one of the most famous pilgrimage spots of Odisha. It is an ideal place to get an insight into the Hindu philosophies and learn more about the religion. Sakhigopal is basically famous for the Sakhigopal Temple. This is at temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is one of the oldest temples of Odisha and one of the most famous ones too.
Mausima Temple :
The three chariots of Jagannatha, Balabhadra and Subhadra start from the Singha Dwara of the Temple of Jagannath and reach at ‘Gundicha Temple’, at the other end of the Bada danda. In between ‘Gundicha Temple’ and ‘Singha Dwara’ there comes the Shrin of the Goddess, Ardhamsini or Ardhasini. Popularly known as Mousima (aunt) of Jagannath where the Lord take a bhoga of ‘Podapitha”, a special cake. It is stared in Skanda Purana, Vaisanava Knadha that during the deluge, when the sea overflooded Puri, this goddess drank half of the flood water and saved the town. There for her name become Arthasini.
Lokonath :
This is the fomous Siva temple of Puri Located about One Kilometer away from the Jagannath Temple towards the western end. There is a popular belief that Lord Ram had installed this lingam with a Lauka or Pumpkin. The Temple was build during 10th-11th century A.D. The devotees come here to see Lord Loknath in order to be cured from any kind of disease. There are certain festivals observed in this temple out of which ‘Saranti-Somobar-mela’ is the important one.
There is a streem on the head Sivalinga playing the roal of the Ganges and linga, It self remains under the water. The flowers, sandal paste, ‘Bilva-patra’, etc. offered to the God remain decomposed in the water emittining a special smell and teast being medicated as a whole. people take it as Prasad, in order to be cured from the disease that they suffered for. The festival of Siva Ratri is observed in the temple of Lokanath with great devotion. A meeting of Siva and Vishnu takes place on the day.
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Harachandi Temple :
Goddess Harachandi temple is at a distance of 25 kms from Puri. It is situated on the side of sea where the river from Atharnala entered into sea near Harachandi temple. It is the best place for picnic. In the side of Harachandi temple there was only one old routes from Puri to Decan via chilika lake. An important health resort of Odisha, the fresh air and exotic landscape of Baliharachandi rejuvenates the tourists with a fresh bout of energy and vigor. The well known tourist destination of the sea side beach of Baliharachandi is easily accessible by good roads and well laid railway tracks.
Shyamakali :
These shrines are there in the old palace of Gajapati Kings of Puri. Now the historical Royal Palace is situated in the grand trunk road (Bada danda) of Puri. This is a new Place. The old Palace was there in Bali Sahi. From the Southen door of Lord Jagannath temple one can go to this place.
Gundicha :
The most important sanctuary of Jagannath is the Gundicha temple, the abode to which Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are driven each of his or her wooden cars once in a year, during the Car Festival. Except for these few days it is unoccupied, but there is a small establishment of servants by whom it is regularly maintained. It is situated at the other end of the great highway (Badadanda). The distance between the gates of Jagannath temple and the Gundicha temple, is exactly 2,688.0696 meters (8327 feet).
The temple is surrounded by a wall and stands in the middle of garden. It consists of four pars connected with kitchen rooms by a narrow passage. The tower, a construction of Pidha type, is 75 feet high with a base of 55 feet by 46 feet outside, and 36 feet 8inches by 27 feet inside. All the four structures (Vimana, Jagamohan, Natamandap, and Bhogamandap) bear the traces of several plastering and are carved in places with obscene figures in mortar. There is a plain raised seat, 4 feet high and 19 feet long, made of chlorite, and this is called the Ratnavedi- the throne on which the images are placed when brought to the temple.
Puri Sea Beach :
Puri is one of the most popular Orissa beaches that is thronged by the pilgrims all round the year. The shimmering sand, high rising waves and the unbroken sea bed of Puri lure national and international tourists. Puri is popular for its temple of Lord Jagannath. The temple was built in the 12th century and dedicated to the Lord of the Universe. Indian and foreign tourists arrive in large numbers every year to seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath, the reigning deity of the region. The pilgrims wade through the waters of the Bay of Bengal and often gather in large numbers in the beaches to take the traditional dip.
Baliharachandi Beach :
Baliharachandi beach of Orissa is situated at a short distance of just 27 km from the famous place of Puri. Salubrious weather, vast stretches of sandy beach and turbulent sea represent the picturesque landscape of Baliharachandi. One of the worth seeing Orissa beaches, Baliharachandi is famous for the revered religious shrine of Goddess Harachandi that draws several devotees from far and wide who visit the holy monument to seek divine blessings and eternal happiness. The sea side beach offers the tourists with a wonderful opportunity to experience the natural splendor of Orissa.
Balighai Beach :
The casuarina fringed Balighai Beach, located 8 km from Puri, is a famous picnic spot. The juxtaposition of gentle casuarina-lined river with crashing, desolate ocean coast is a strange and extremely beautiful one. One may also catch a glimpse of the shy Baliharina a kind of deer who inhabit the area. The Sea Turtle Research Center is another attraction of this beach.
Pipili Chandua :
Pipili of odisha, Puri (also known as Pipli) is a town and a NAC under jurisdiction of Puri district in the Indian state of Orissa. It is famous for designing beautiful Applique handicrafts. It is a town of artisans famous for their colourful fabrics.Best known is probably the gorgeous applique work of Pipili. Pipili is on the way from Puri to Bhubaneswar. It is 40 kilometres from Puri, at the junction where the konark road branches from the Bhubaneswar to Puri road. It is a small village.
On the main road at Pipili there are many shops selling Applique work products, tourist visiting Puri buy these products from Pipili. It is famous in Orissa as well as in India for it’s applique craft. Each and every family of the village engaged themeselves in this applique craft. Most of the people of the village depend on this applique craft for their day to day life. Applique, a French term, is a technique by which various cutting pieces of coloured fabrics are applied to the surface of another foundation fabric. Applique works of Pipili is also known as patching cloth design and in local language this handicraft is known as ‘Chandua’.
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JHINKESWAR TEMPLE :
JHINKESWAR TEMPLE is situated at jhinkpada,udala,mayurbhanj . It is found at a distance of 45km.
Lulung :
Lulung is one of the entry points to Similipal National Park and is located on its eastern fringes. The other entrance is through Jashipur. Lulung is situated on the banks of the tributary River Palpala. The river has a perennial water flow. The crystal clear water with pebbles of different sizes on its river bed and dense forest on both its sides is an idyllic picnic spot for many nature lovers.The climate at Lulung, located at an altitude of 300 metres, is wonderful. The view of the hillocks in the distance is just as nice.
Devkund Water Fall :
Devkund Water Fall a Beautiful Picnic Spot , which is a part of the Udala division of Similipal Forest Range can be visited via Nilagiri / Udala from Panchlingeswar. It is 90 km from Lulung, 69 km from Kuldiha and 87 km from Balasore. From Balasore there are regular bus services to Udala (59 km). From Udala there are jeeps forgoing to Devkund at a distance of 28 km. The last 5 km trail is through a dense forest surrounded with hills. The lake formed by a waterfall jumping from a height of 50 ft to the Devkund.
There are four other falls too and each of them makes a Kund or lake so there are five Kunds in total; and that explains the name—Pancha Kunda (Place of five lakes). Climbing up more than 100 steps from Devkund, at the source of the river, there is the temple of Devi Ambika Mata (Durga temple), which is worth seeing. Pujas are still performed in the temple built by the kings of Mayurbhanj in 1940. The chirping sound of known and unknown birds, the multi-coloured butterflies add to the charm of Devkund.
The Joranda Falls is located in the core area of Simlipal National Park in Mayurbhanj district in the Indian state of Orissa. The Barehipani Falls is located close to the Joranda Falls.[1] It is the 19th highest waterfall in India.
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Tarasish Mohanty 