Kandhamal Tourism

Overview of Kandhamal Tourism

Kandhamal is a district in Odisha, India, established on January 1, 1994, known for its dense forests, hilly terrain, and rich tribal culture. Covering over 71% forest area, its economy is rooted in agriculture (turmeric, ginger) and forestry. The district, with headquarters in Phulbani, is a popular destination for eco-tourism and wildlife.

Location	Eastern India, Odisha
Nickname	Land of Nature & Tribes
Historical	Known for its rich tribal heritage and forest-based culture; historically inhabited by indigenous communities like the Kondh tribe, with minimal influence from ancient urban kingdoms
Population (as of 2025–2026)	8–9 lakh (estimated based on 2011 Census: ~7.3 lakh with growth trends)
Main Attraction	Daringbadi (popular hill station known as “Kashmir of Odisha”)
Nearby Landmark	Belghar Sanctuary
Major Religion	Hinduism (majority), along with significant tribal religious practices and Christianity

Famous Tourist Places in Kandhamal District

Daringbadi
Hill View Park
Coffee Gardens Daringbadi
Emu Bird Park
Doluri River
Putudi Waterfall
Midubanda Waterfall
Belghar Sanctuary
Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Phulbani
Balaskumpa Hills
Ludu Waterfall
Birguda Waterfall
Mandasaru Gorge

Historical & Archaeological Heritage

Kandhamal is a region deeply rooted in tribal history and ancient cultural traditions. Unlike other districts known for large monuments, Kandhamal’s heritage lies in its indigenous communities, age-old customs, and natural landscapes.

Historically, the district has been home to tribal groups like the Kondh tribe, whose traditions, rituals, and lifestyle reflect centuries-old cultural continuity. The region’s historical identity is closely tied to forest-based living and spiritual practices rather than grand architectural remains.

Kandhamal also reflects the legacy of ancient Kalinga, with influences seen in local traditions, festivals, and rural settlements. The district’s villages, terraced fields, and forest settlements provide a living example of Odisha’s traditional past.

Religious Significance

Kandhamal is known for its strong spiritual culture, blending tribal beliefs with mainstream Hindu traditions. The district hosts several temples and sacred sites that attract devotees and visitors.

Popular religious sites include local देवी temples and Jagannath temples in areas like Phulbani and Baliguda. The district is also known for vibrant festivals such as Dola Jatra, Durga Puja, and local tribal fairs, which reflect a unique mix of devotion and cultural celebration.

Religious tourism is growing steadily, with government investments being made to develop temples and sacred sites, improving facilities for pilgrims.

Economy & Industrial Growth

Kandhamal’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, forest produce, and small-scale industries. The district is especially famous for its organic and GI-tagged turmeric, often referred to as Kandhamal Haldi, which has gained recognition in national and international markets.

The region also produces crops like maize, paddy, vegetables, and mustard, supported by its fertile valleys and forest ecosystem.

Cottage industries such as bamboo crafts, terracotta, and dokra art play a vital role in the local economy, providing employment to tribal communities.

In recent years, Kandhamal has started attracting investment, with proposals worth over ₹540 crore aimed at boosting industries like tourism, food processing, and agriculture.

How to Reach Kandhamal, Odisha

By Road

Kandhamal is well connected by road, making it one of the most convenient ways to access the district. It is linked via major highways like NH-326 and NH-217, ensuring smooth connectivity from nearby cities. Regular buses and taxis operate from key locations such as Bhubaneswar, Berhampur, and Sambalpur.

By Air

For air travelers, the nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, located approximately 211 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire private taxis or use public transportation like buses to reach Kandhamal comfortably. The journey offers scenic views of Odisha’s countryside, making the trip enjoyable.

By Train

Kandhamal does not have its own railway station, but it is accessible via nearby major railheads. The closest railway stations are Berhampur Railway Station (around 165 km away) and Rairakhol Railway Station (approximately 99 km away).

Things to Do in Kandhamal

Kandhamal offers a refreshing escape into nature and culture. Here are some top activities:

Explore scenic hill stations like Daringbadi, often called the “Kashmir of Odisha”
Visit beautiful waterfalls such as Putudi, Pakdajhar, and Katramala
Experience eco-tourism camps and forest stays surrounded by greenery
Walk through coffee gardens, pine forests, and tribal villages
Enjoy local festivals and cultural events
Capture breathtaking landscapes, especially during winter and monsoon

With its cool climate and natural beauty, Kandhamal is ideal for relaxation and exploration.

Travel Tips for Visitors

Planning a trip to Kandhamal? Keep these tips in mind:

Best Time to Visit: October to February for pleasant weather
Carry Warm Clothes: Temperatures can drop significantly in winter
Book in Advance: Limited accommodation options in remote areas
Transport: Hire local taxis for exploring remote tourist spots
Respect Tribal Culture: Always be mindful of local traditions and customs
Stay Connected: Mobile network may be weak in forest areas

Being prepared will help you enjoy a smooth and memorable journey.

Why Visit Kandhamal?

Kandhamal is one of Odisha’s most underrated destinations, offering untouched natural beauty, rich tribal culture, and peaceful surroundings. With dense forests covering nearly 66% of the district, it is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Unlike crowded tourist spots, Kandhamal provides a calm and authentic experience, making it perfect for offbeat travel. From scenic hills to cultural richness, it offers something truly unique.