Uncovering the Hidden History of Koraput: Exploring the Untold Stories of an Indian Town
EXPLORE KORAPUT Koraput one of the most beautiful place in the sate of Odisha ,India. The district is known for the heavenly beauty of nature surrounded by flora and fauna and also called as heaven on Earth. People who are in search of an adventure tour, exploring the Mountains and Waterfalls for Trekking and Hiking. Koraput is the best place for them. Where is Koraput ? Koraput is located in the green valley contemplating immaculate freshness and was established on 1st April 1936. Decorated by Forests, Waterfalls, terraced Valleys and Darting Springs, the District draws the nature-loving people. The Koraput District lies at 17.4 degrees to 20.7 degrees north latitude and 81.24 degrees to 84.2 degrees east longitude. The Koraput is bounded by Rayagada in the east, Bastar District of Chhattisgarh in the west and Nabarangpur District in the south. Ancient History of Koraput Koraput district was ruled by several dynasties such as Satavahanas, Ikshvakus, Nalas, Ganga kings and kings of Surya vans. In ancient times when the Nalas ruled this tract with Pushkari near modern Umarkote was their capital city. In the medieval period, Nandapur developed as the capital under the Silavamsi kings and after them under the kings of the solar dynasty. Viravikrama Deo of the solar dynasty shifted his capital to Jeypore about the middle of the 17th century and developed into a prospered town.As far as the history of the District is concerned, the region of Koraput existed far back in the 3rd century BC when it belonged to the valiant and dreaded Atavika people, the Koraput became a District in the year 1936.In October 1992, erstwhile Koraput district was divided, resulting in the creation of Malkangiri, Rayagada and Nabarangpur district along with present Koraput district. Places to visit in Koraput More than 50+ tribal communities are living in forest areas of Koraput. Every year thousands of tourists from different countries and different states of India are traveling to Koraput to explore this place. Foreigners are traveling to Koraput only to explore the Tribal community and Medication plants. Being at the heart of tribal belt in South Odisha, it has also many hill stations ,historical places and 50+ visiting sites , I will be describing one on one by categories Like Historical places , Temples, Mountains for Trekking , Hiking, Night Camping, Tribal market ,Landscape and Beautiful tribal villages. Temple, Cave and Historical Places to visit in Koraput RAJA CAVE AND BALMIKI ASHRAM Raja cave and Balmiki Ashram in other name know as Kapat Parbat. It is believed the ancestor of Balmiki resides in this site situated on the bank of river Machakund and the river dividing border of Odisha & Andra Pradesh. It is a scenic spot & best place for trekking in Nandapur block for Eco & Cave tourism. Akhayaturtiya is the main festival of this site. BATRTISA SINHASANA The ancient capital of Jeypore Kingdom Nandapur is famous for the presence of Batrisa Sinhasana. It is a 32 step well-preserved relic linked with the fabled throne of Vikramaditya. The arresting red image as a six-feet Ganesha and the shrine of Bhairavnath and other monuments of great antiquity. JAIN MONASTERY It is a roadside village 16 Kms from Sunabeda and 34 Kms away from Koraput has the relics of a Jain monastery, containing rare images of the Tirthankaras. JEYPORE PALACE It is the city of victory is the largest town in the district and home to the royal family is steeped in history. The old fort is encircled by a high masonany wall with an imposing gateway. Towards the eastern part of the town is a big tank called Jagannath Sagar attracts water sports. KOTILINGESWAR TEMPLE Kutuni Padar Shiv Temple aka Mukteswar & Tarini Temple aka “Kotilingeshwara Temple of Koraput”. Kutuni Padar is situated in Laxmipur block of Koraput district . Cores of Shiva Lingas have already been surfaced on the mountain popularly called as “Koti Shiv linga parvat”. This is the only temple where Lord Shiva called as “Mukteswar”& goddess Parvati called as Maa Tarini are worshiped together MAA KANTA BAUNSUNI TEMPLE, DAMANJODI Maa kanta baunsuni Temple is situated in Damanjodi 36km away from koraput .The main festival celebrate here is Kanta Baunsuni Jatra. HANUMAN TEMPLE ,DAMANJODI. World’s Second tallest Hanuman Statue that stands at 108.9 feet(33.1 meters) located at NALCO township, Damanjodi, Koraput. SABARA SRIKHETRA (Jagannath Temple) KORAPUT Koraput is mostly famous for its Jagannath Temple which is also known as Sabara Srikhetra. Srikhetra is normally referred to as Puri Jagannath, but the unique identity of the Koraput temple is because no section of society is barred entry. HANUMAN TEMPLE, DUMRIPUT A small village Dumuriput is located between Koraput and Sunabeda by NH-26. The famous Sri Ram Temple situated in the locality is widely known for the highest kneeling Hanuman Statue in Odisha. Ram Navami festival is popularly celebrated every year which attracts a large number of devotees. GUPTESWAR TEMPLE 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. BALDA CAVE Balda Cave situated 66 Kms away from Koraput. Surrounding with natural beauty. The top of the mountain plateau is flat one. 05 nos of football matches can be played at a time. The Jalaput reservoir from this plateau is enchanting one. Donger Dei is the main deity of the cave worship by the local people during Chaitra Festival. It is best place for trekking and place for nature lover. WATER RESERVOR AND FAMOUS WATERFALLS TO VISIT IN KORAPUT DUDUMA WATERFALL, MACHKUND Duduma waterfall is one of the most significant waterfalls in Odisha. The 3rd highest waterfall (547 ft.) in Odisha after Barehipani waterfall and Khandadhar waterfall. Machkund River forms this waterfall; A 120 MW, Hydropower plant project is going on. A perfect place for nature lovers and people looking for a picnic starts exploring this place. You can find many
Discover the World of Koraput: A Fascinating Journey
Discover the World of Koraput: A Fascinating Journey Koraput, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. Known for its natural beauty and rich culture, the world of Koraput is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the true essence of India. The region is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, each with their own unique customs and traditions. Visitors can explore the vibrant culture of the local tribes, such as the Bonda, Didayi, and Gadaba, and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. One of the main attractions in Koraput is the natural beauty of the region. The region is known for its lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque hills. The most famous of these is the Duduma waterfall, which is a must-see for visitors. The waterfall is located in the heart of the region and is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Koraput is also home to a number of historic sites, such as the Jagannath Temple, which is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is a significant religious site and is visited by many pilgrims throughout the year. The region is also known for its rich history and heritage. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient Kondh Tribe’s fortresses, and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. The region is also home to a number of museums and cultural centers, such as the Koraput Museum, which is dedicated to showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Koraput is a popular destination for trekking and adventure sports. The region offers a wide range of trekking routes that are suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as rock climbing, rappelling, and paragliding. The world of Koraput is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those who are interested in learning about India’s rich culture and heritage. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and fascinating history, the region is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the true essence of India. The best time to visit Koraput is between October and May, when the weather is pleasant and the region is in full bloom. During this time, the temperature ranges between 15-25 degrees Celsius and the monsoon season is over. When it comes to accommodation, Koraput has a range of options to suit all budgets. Visitors can choose from budget-friendly guesthouses and lodges to luxury resorts. Some of the popular hotels and resorts in the region include the Koraput Jungle Camp, the Koraput Tourist Lodge and the Machkund Eco-Tourism Complex. Koraput is also known for its delicious local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as dalma, a lentil-based dish, and pitha, a sweet rice cake. Visitors can also indulge in traditional tribal cuisine, such as bamboo shoots, wild fruits, and wild vegetables. To get to Koraput, visitors can take a flight to Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, and then take a train or bus to Koraput. The nearest airport is the Jeypore Airport, which is well connected to major cities in India. In conclusion, Koraput is a hidden gem in India that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and fascinating history. With so much to see and do, the region is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those who are interested in learning about India’s rich culture and heritage. So, pack your bags and head to the world of Koraput, a guide to India’s untouched paradise.
