Beyond the well–beaten paths of tourists exists an alluring world of secrets, where Nature speaks softly to us and Culture flourishes in its purest expression. This location can be found near Salebhata in Balangir District, where Gaikhai Eco–Tourism begins with untouched natural beauty.
We do not offer an artificial experience (manicured resort); instead, we provide you with a genuine opportunity to explore the wilderness and warmth offered by Western Odisha‘s communities. As Gaikhai is operated and managed by residents, it serves as the ideal example of Sustainable ECO Tourism.
Our promise to you includes untouched scenery, deep–rooted cultural ties, and experiences unavailable anywhere else. Get ready to disconnect from everything else and reconnect with Nature!
The Heart of the Community: Salebhata Village and Tribal Homestays
Gaikhai’s fascinating communities embody the essence of a traveller’s experience; there is no better way to connect than by staying in Salebhata village, where tribal communities will treat you with hospitality. When you stay at a tribal homestay, your experience will be enriched through your nightly home-cooked meals, traditional folk stories told over shared food and drink, and the opportunity to learn about and participate in traditional crafts.
Your visitation will go way beyond merely visiting; you will have had full access to all aspects of the community and their way of life. When you stay in a homestay, you will sleep in an authentic tribal-style room, wake up in the morning to the sounds of village life, and develop an intimate understanding of a culture that has co-existed with these forests for generations.
A Trekker’s Paradise: Exploring the Lush Forests and Vantage Points
The terrain is both beautiful and challenging in its own right, so make sure to lace up your boots before venturing into the wilderness to experience the natural beauty of Gaikhai and its environment. Gaikhai Eco Tourism provides access to an extensive network of captivating nature trails and trekking routes located within dense, tranquil, and idyllic Sal forests—compliments of nature.
The aroma of fresh dirt mingles with the perfume of wildflowers in the air. Every step taken along the trails leads you to something new—be it a hidden stream, a curious deer track, or an opportunity to have cleared away trees or shrubs to find yourself in a clearing surrounded by gorgeous tree-covered hillsides.
The views from the top of an ascent are typically breathtaking views across miles of pristine wilderness, views of the landscape below you—endless green rolling hills supported by an all-encompassing sky—exemplifying the beauty and tranquillity of the land.
Wings Over Gaikhai: A Birder’s Sanctuary
For bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts, Gaikhai, a place for bird watching, provides an ideal environment. It offers a variety of unique ecosystems from densely wooded areas to lakes and other bodies of water, each of which is home to a wide variety of bird species.
With your binoculars in hand, prepare yourself for a fun time watching birds. You will likely come across brightly coloured Kingfishers, elusive hornbills, and other birds of prey flying above you. Each morning in this area, you will be serenaded by the beautiful sounds of birds singing.
This is an excellent opportunity to record your findings on both resident and migratory birds. Birdwatching in this area requires a lot of time and patience, as it helps us better appreciate the delicate balance of the environment and all of its inhabitants.
The Sacred and The Scenic: Ghagara Dam and Spiritual Essence
In addition to being a great place for bird watching, the geography and history of the landscape are intertwined with the spirituality of the local people and their daily lives. The Ghaghara Dam, for example, provides an opportunity for people to meditate and reflect amongst beautiful scenery and water.
The dam is very important for agriculture in the area and is also a peaceful place for people looking to reflect and meditate. The ancient sacred groves of the area contain many trees that have been preserved by local belief systems for hundreds of years.
Many of these groves are seen as places of worship or sacred spaces, and their continued preservation by the local community highlights the deep respect for nature and for how local traditions support the environment.
Planning Your Sustainable Escape: A Practical Guide
Between October and March, the weather is perfect, and you’ll get to enjoy all of your trip. The town is in Balangir District; you can come to Balangir via train or road. Once you reach Balangir town, take a local mode of transportation to Salebhata. When you go here, embrace the sustainable way of doing things, and support the local economy through your tourism efforts by respecting the area’s customs and traditions and by minimizing waste while using natural resources mindfully and responsibly.
By doing this, you help to further develop the economy of Salebhata. You’ll also want to book your homestay some time in advance using official channels. Bring light, breathable clothing made from cotton, sturdy shoes for walking, and a willingness to be adventurous—because that’s what this trip will be all about.
Conclusion: More Than a Visit, An Experience
Gaikhai Eco Tourism is a rare example of how travel can change your point of view. Gaikhai Eco Tourism also reminds you that memories created through your travels often have to do with the strong connections you make with nature, culture, and the slower, easier pace of life—the heartbeat of a village.
You will leave with not only images of the area, but you will have memories of the sounds of the forest paths, the emotion of sharing experiences with others, and the satisfaction of knowing that your visit supports preservation efforts of this natural landscape in one small area of Odisha.
Tourist Facilities, Transportation, Tourist Attractions, How to Reach, Accessibility
Opening Time
Majhighariani temple open timings are Everyday Morning 5.30 am to 12.30 pm, and from 01.30 pm to Evening 9 pm.
Best Time to Visit
The Best time to visit Majhigouri Temple is at all times of the year.
Closest Bus Stand & Distance
The Closest Bus stand is Rayagada, which is located around 1.5 KM distance from Maa Majhighariani Mandir.
Closest Railway Station and Distance
The Closest Railway Station is Rayagada, which is located around 3 KM distance from the Majhighariani Temple. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to reach the Beach.
Closest Airport
The Closest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, which is located around 380 KM distance from the Majhighariani Temple
