Koraput district of Odisha is one of the three KBK districts of Orissa surrounded by Rayagada and Srikaklam (A.P) district in the east, Bastar District of Madhya Pradesh in the west, Nowarangpur District in the north and Vijayanagaram and Visakhapatnam District of Andhra Pradesh in the south. The district derives its name from its headquarters town Koraput. Jeypur is another important town of the district.
What is Koraput District of Odisha famous for?
Koraput District of Odisha is famously known as the “Switzerland of Odisha” for its breathtaking hill station scenery, featuring lush mountains, terraced valleys, and enchanting waterfalls. It is celebrated as the home of Deomali, the highest peak in Odisha, and is a rich tribal heartland with unique cultural heritage. As part of the KBK region, it offers spectacular natural attractions like the Duduma Waterfall and the revered Gupteswar Cave Temple.
Scenic Crown:
Home to Deomali, the highest mountain peak in Odisha, offering panoramic views.
Natural Wonders:
Famous for its roaring waterfalls, including the majestic Duduma Waterfall (Machkund), and the serene Kolab Dam reservoir.
Spiritual Site:
Houses the sacred Gupteswar Cave Temple, a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Cultural Hub:
A core tribal district with a rich heritage, historic sites like the Batrisa Sinhasan in Nandapur, and the town of Jeypore.
Geographical & Cultural Profile:
Koraput’s identity is defined by its stunning, undulating landscapes that have earned it the nickname “Switzerland of Odisha.” Part of the tribal-centric KBK region, the district is a tapestry of rolling mountains, meadows, and deep valleys. This dramatic geography hosts Deomali, Odisha’s rooftop, and creates the perfect setting for roaring waterfalls and vast natural resources. Beyond the scenery, it’s a vibrant cultural mosaic, with indigenous communities preserving ancient traditions in towns and villages across the hills.
Historical Legacy & Local Life:
The district holds a significant historical legacy as the seat of the erstwhile Jeypore Kingdom. Remnants of this past can be explored in places like Nandapur, with its historic Batrisa Sinhasan (32-step throne), and the old palaces. Life in Koraput is intimately connected to its terrain, with terraced farming adorning the hillsides and weekly markets (haats) in towns like Jeypore and Koraput buzzing with local handicrafts, textiles, and agricultural produce, offering an authentic glimpse into highland living.
Tourist Places of Attraction
Deomali Peak:
The premier attraction for nature lovers and adventurers. As the highest point in Odisha, the peak and its surrounding areas offer challenging treks, breathtaking vistas of the Eastern Ghats, and a chance to experience unique high-altitude flora and fauna.
Duduma Waterfall (Machkund):
One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Eastern India, located on the Machkund River along the Odisha-Andhra border. The thunderous cascade plunges from a great height into a deep gorge, creating a powerful and mesmerizing natural spectacle surrounded by dense forests.
Gupteswar Cave Temple:
A highly revered pilgrimage site. The temple is located in a natural limestone cave where a sacred Shiva Lingam is worshipped. The spiritual ambiance, combined with the unique geological setting and the surrounding forest, makes it a deeply peaceful and significant destination.
Kolab Dam & Reservoir:
A man-made marvel set amidst the hills. The dam creates a vast, serene reservoir whose backwaters extend into picturesque forested areas. It’s a perfect spot for boating, picnics, and enjoying stunning sunset views over the water against a mountain backdrop.
Jeypore Town & Nandapur:
Jeypore, the cultural and commercial heart, features the historic Jeypore Palace and vibrant markets. A short distance away, Nandapur is an ancient site known for the Batrisa Sinhasan, an archaeological relic, and its historical importance as an old capital, offering a quiet journey into the region’s royal past.
Savara Shrikhetra & Tribal Villages:
For a deep cultural immersion, Savara Shrikhetra near Koraput town is a unique temple complex. Visiting surrounding tribal villages allows travelers to witness indigenous art, traditional dance forms, and the distinctive lifestyle of communities like the Paraja and Gadaba, known for their unique music and Dokra metal crafts.
Koraput district of Odisha is a tribal district of Orissa with great natural reserves. It has rolling mountains, dulating meadows, roaring rapids, largest mountain enchanting waterfalls and terraced valleys leading up to verdant hills. The whole district has a large deposit of largest mountain Deomali is also located in Koraput.
Attractions
Savara Shrikhetra -Koraput, Duduma Waterfall- Machkund, Gupteswar Temple, Dumuriput, Nandapur, Batrisa Sinhasan, Jain Statue,Kolab Dam, Damanjodi, Maliguda, Old palace
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