TOURIST PLACES OF KORAPUT DISTRICT
JAGANNATH TEMPLE
In Koraput town there is a big Jagannath Temple, known as the Sabara Srikhetra, the biggest Temple of the District, which has been constructed in the 19th Century. Now a days, this temple becomes the main attraction for the Koraput town. The famous Ratha Yatra is also celebrated here in a grand way. The Temple is surrounded with a boundary wall. In order to reach at the Temple, one has to over come more than 100 steps, to see Lord Jagannath. The height of the temple rises to about 50 feet and has a four chambered Complex with Deula, Jagamohan, Nata Mandapa, and Bhoga Mandapa, closely affixed to each other. By 1982 all the side deities are established round the Temple-Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are worshipped in the main sanctum of the Temple.
The Temple of Lord Jagannath, known as “Sabara Srikhetra” is located on a top of hillock. Important deities have been installed there in and around the Temple. It attracts quite large number of tourists from neighbouring areas each year. A tribal museum has situated near the Temple site. In the Museum collections of life styles of different tribal groups, their customs and costumes, musical instruments, their both cultural and economic life are decorated. It maintains a well developed library rich with books on tribes.
Some people go to the extend of saying that the Jagannath cult which found its highest manifestation at Puri has originated from Koraput. The imposing Temple of Lord Jagannatha on the top of the Nisan Pabli (Pabli is the Desia term for hillock), renamed as “Nilasaila” in the centre of Koraput, dominating the structural landscape of the town, had a momentous beginning.
The devotees steal a devotional glance of almost all major deities of the Hindu pantheon, such as Mhabira Hanuman, Maha Ganesh, Surya, Laxminrusihan, Bimala, Maha Saraswati, Patar Saurani (Lalitambike) Mahalaxmi, and the Nabagraha and the Dolo Mandapa, as they go round (Pradaksana) the Lord in the main enclosure (Bedha). The pilgrims enjoy the blessings of the presiding deities of almost every centre of pilgrimage (Peethas) of Bharata, instilled in a second enclosure, below the main. They are Amarnath, Kedarnath, Vaishnodevi, Pasupatinath, Pruthiviswar, Sri Govinda Jiu, Sri Krushna Janmabhumi, Bhutnath, Payag Rajeswar, Brahmasila, Kasibiswanath, Biraja, Kali, Kamaksi, Badrinath, Dwarakanath, Rameswar, Somonath, Puskar, Srinath, Mahakaleswar, Haridwar, Vithaljee, Mukhalingam, Sri Kurma, Varahanrusimha, Sri Balaji, Ayyappa, Minaksi, and Srirangam.
A third bedha gives the benefit of the blessings from the deities from the major Peethas of Orissa. These are Siddha Mahavira, Badadevajiu, Nilamadhaba, Alarnath, Raghunath, Anantabasudeva, Varahanatha, Marjarakesari, Nrusimhanatha, Krirachora Gopinath, Mahavinayaka, Ladubaba, Akhandalmani, Gokornaeswar, Gupteswar, Birupaksa, Chandra Sekhara, Lingaraja, Chausati Yogini, Taratarini, Pataneswari, Subarnameru, Siddha Bhairavi, Narayani, Sarala, bhattarika, Samalai, Hingula, Tara Tarini( of Ghatagam), Kichakeswari, Bhagabati, Mangala, Charchika, Kataka Chandi, Byaghra/Bagdevi, Manikeswari, and Ardhasani.
An exclusive Bedha is adorned by an unusual Shrine dedicated to Matarbnom, the guardian deity of the Sabar, as conceived by revered Mangai Gamang, an awakened soul, who instilled a strong Spiritual urge among his community member and left behind a blazing trail of intellectual curiosity in search of God, during the second half of the 20th Century. This bedha stimulates a tribal culture and forest environment character. It is situated strategically at the entrance of the complex so that devotees would first have their first reverential glance before proceeding further. It is nostalgically known as Champakabana.
An exclusive temple where Lord Siva bearing the name of Sabareswara, is represented by the Banalingam, fetched from Varanasi, stands facing Jagannath to the left of the Simhadwara, at the foot of the Baisipahauccha. A small Temple with its ritual ancillaries, such as the Humakunda, etc, dedicated to Mother Gayatri, stands in front of the Laxmi Bazar to the left of Sabareswara.
A pilgrimage to Sabara Srikesetra is, nationally a pilgrimage to Chaturdhama and every other major centre of worship from Kutch to Kamrup and from Rameswaram to Barinatha.
Bata Ganesha Temple is located at the meeting point of the foot steps and the motorable road to the main Temple. On the left this temple is the Bhagabata Ghara, adorned by a life size wooden statue of the 15 Century saint Sri Jagannath Das, immortalized for his translation of the Bhagabata Maha Purana in to simple Odiya.
The abode of the presiding deity of any tribal dominated village (The Grama Devata) in this region is called Nisanimunda. All activities of the village, individual or collective begin with permission ritually sought from this deity. The Nisanimunda of Koraput is located at the foot of the hill (Nisan Pabli) on which Sri Jagannath Temple was raised.
Atithi Bhavan a well equipped sixty four bedded guest house, with a spacious conference hall, provides a congenial venue for seminars, concerences, workshops and training programmes, in addition to lodging facilities. Two other guest houses, The Atithi Nivas and the Yatri Nivas, adequately meet the need of the pilgrims, tourists and other visitors to Koraput.
The top of a small hillock, close to the Koraput Railway Station, is sanctified by a temple dedicated to Sri Sabareswara Mahadeva. The management of this Temple is taken over by the Sabara Srikhetra for its proper maintenance.
Jainism,Saivism, Vaisnavism and Saktism are equally popular in Koraput district similarly the presiding deity of Koraput is goddess Mutyallama. Kanakaparameswari Temple, Radha Krushna Temple, Bata Mangala Temple, Rama Temple are also other attraction for visiting tourist at Koraput. Rajiv Gandhi Children’s Park, (a small park), and Chandana Sorobar located in the heart of the town attracts visitors. A stay in circuit house constructed by Britishers on a hill top is pleasant and memorable. Tourism department has also built on accommodation unit there. The district museum had done the job of collecting sculptures from different places and keeps it inside the museum.
Koraput is the head quarter of the District of Koraput. The place is surrounded by a cluster of hills from which flow small and perennial streamlets. Painted springs and slumbering summer and its cold winter convert it as poor man’s Kashmir i.e. the paradise on earth. Th town is provided with a small bazaar which is growing rapidly and its weekly Hat on Sunday is crowded by the tribal people who came from neighbouring hamlets to sell their products and to purchage the necessaries.
The Panoramic view and salubrious climate of Koraput make it on attractive health resort here; nature speaks a variety of language. The breath taking scenery brings heavens to earth. The black clouds hovering in the sky and kissing innumerable hills in Koraput region, the torrential rain and wide spread vegetation all around transformed it as one of the best tourist hubs during rainy season. In the remote area of the District there are more tribal settlements. Visitors come to Koraput to see its dense forest, its amazing flora, fauna and the beautiful tribal people.
TRIBAL MUSEUM, KORAPUT
Some members of the Sabara Srikhetra management helped to create an autonomous institution for proper research and documentation of the tribal cultures of this region. It took shape in the form of council of Analytical tribal studies (coats). The other such two institution are the tribal museum and the tribal culture Research Centre (TCRC). This institution while taking of independent studies on Jagannath Philosophy in the context of local tribal cultures attracts serious scholars from different parts of the country and beyond. A sizable collection of very rare books on the stacks of its library is a special attraction. Both function as sister institutions of Sabara Srikhetra. The tribal museum has situated near the temple site. In the museum collections of life styles of different tribal groups, their customs and costumes, musical instruments, their both cultural and economic life. It maintains a well developed library rich with books on tribes.
On the backdrop of the explosion of knowledge, consequent upon the development of information technology, there has been a felt need of the elite of this backward region to get adequate exposure to the ever increasing area of scientific and technological developments. The response of the temple trust is materializing in the form an integrated institutionalized knowledge centre, to be named as Gyan Mandir. On completion, it will be first of its kind in Orissa.
JEYPORE
Jeypore town located 22 Km from Koraput. Jeypore is one of the biggest town and main trading centre of Koraput District. Once it was the home of royal family. One can make it a base point to visit the tourist places. The worth seeing site is the palace in Jeypore from where the Dev Dynastic ruled the estate. It is situated on main road encircled by high masonry wall with an imposing get way. The Jagannath Sagar is situated in western part. It is a very big tank of size 1.25 Km 10.75 Km. The presiding deity of Jeypore is the Jagat Janani, located at a distance of one Km from Bus stop. A government museum is located with antiquities and craft works, mostly famous for Jain Iconography. It is inside the town hall campus. There is also an art school inside the town. The town has quite good number of Luxury hotels where tourists can stay.
Jeypore, other wise called the city of victory was the official residence of the Maharaja of Jeypore. Jeypore is also a famous centre of Jainism. Jeypore has a college named after Maharaja Vikramdev, one high school and one art school, also named after the same Maharaja. At present there are two picture houses and a number of hotels. There is also a beautiful old Church. From the Jagannatha Sagar one can get a complete view of the town of Jeypore. The tank presents a picture sque sight. The Dasahara festival is a great event of the year in Jeypore. It lasts for 16 days with much pomp and grandeur in honour of goddess Kanaka Durga.
Maa Bhagabati Temple located near the old residential palace, the shrine contains several Jaina images. Maa Kali Temple or Durga Temple is situated in Purunagarh (old town ship) within the locality of Jeypore. Dangeradei Temple situated in Purunagarh locality. Nilakantheswar Temple is also situated in the Purunagarh locality.
Jeypore is very rich in old Siva Temples. In one corner of the Kalika Temple a beautiful image of Tirthankar Risabhanath is under worship as Mahadeva.
The important Sakta sites are the Jagat Jannai Temple, The Kali Temple at Purunagarh, Dangardevi Temple, Kanaka Durga Temple, Bhagabati Temple of Jeypore. So a number of Shaiva, Sakta and Vaishnava Temples were built by the royal family. Important Sakti Pitha of Jeypore are Dangardei, Sevensister, Ugratara, Jagat Janani, Kanaka Durga, Bhagabati, Dakhina Kali, Basantai etc. Other small temple of Maa Sitala, Budhi Thakurani, Mangala, Gangamaa, also situated inside Jeypore town.
The Jaina Sitambar Temple of Jeypore is the centre of attractions for the Jaina people. The Rajasthani art of the temple attracts the tourist very much. The temple is about 30 year old.
Kali Krushna Temple of Nua Sahi situated in Jeypore town. The temple is the main centre of Sanatana Dharma.
The Dasahara festival of Jeypore is compared to the Dasahara festival of Maisure. Another main attraction of Jeypore is the “Dangar Devi Harachandi” temple. The temple is situated in the hill near Sargiguda Panchayat of Borigumma Block.
In the District of Koraput under Jeypore block remain the village Badajiuniguda. In the village Badajiuniguda of Salapa villae situated the Nilakantheswar siva temple. A miracle is happened in tree near this temple. The Salapa village is about 18 Km away from Jeypore. An image of Lord Gajanana is seen in a Bija tree. People of near about and other places came to see and worship the temple and the image of Gajanana in the Bija tree.
NAGESWARI CAVE, KORAPUT
In the Nandapur block of Balda Panchayat situated the “Nageswari” Mali Parvata. In this Mali hill remain about 12 small and big caves. Among these caves Nageswari cave is very old. From the hill top of Nageswari Gumpha tourists can see the beauty of nature. In side the Nageswari cave people came to worship Nageswari Devi in the time of Chaitra. In the entire area of hill top of Mali Parvata is plain ground. Now this place attract many tourists and this is a Eco-tourists place of Koraput District.
BHIMAKHOJ
On the way from Boipariguda to Malkangiri about 6 Km away remain Tanginiguda junction. From that place about 8 km away on the side of Bhatiguda village on the hilly road situated “Bhim Khoja”. Bhimakhoja is about 2 Km from village Bhatiguda. Near this place remain the river Kasigad which is falling down from about 15 foot Height. The waterfall is the main attraction for the tourists in the area. Near Bhimkhoja in a stone remains foot print of Bhima, one among “Panchu Pandava”. For this reason the place is famous in the name of “BhimaKhoja.
MACHKUND WATERFALL – DUDUMA
Machkund is about 49 miles south of Jeypore. Near Badigoda the river Machkund falls from a mountain top of 540. 19 feet as recorded by D.W Gollan on 4th may 1929. Duduma is famous as the highest waterfall of Orissa. From 1980 the place is identified as the main tourist spot of Koraput District. The Machkund waterfall is the beauty spot and main tourist spot of Koraput district. A view tower is made to see the waterfall from long distance. Near the Duduma water fall remain the Banda Pahada. The Machkund is regarded as the famous Matsya Tirtha, a place of pilgrimage.
NANDAPUR
In the district of Koraput Nandapur is a place of natural beauty. And in the Nandapur block in Bhitargarh remain the most beautiful waterfall named as Rani Duduma in Kutunimla area. In winter season the place attracted the tourists and nature lovers.
In the foot hill some important gods and goddesses are worshiped by the tribal people. Till now the Sarbeswar Temple, big stone idol of Ganesh about 6 feet hight, Hanumana temple and Batrishasinghasana (Throne with 32 steps) are the main attraction of Nandapur town. Nandapur is 45 Km from Koraput. Some important tourist places of Nandapur area are Kutunimala, Chandan Mali Pahada, Rani Duduma waterfall, Batrishasinghasana, broken image of Hati Pathara, Bhitargarh, Paruamali Gumpha (cave), Jina remains of Khemundiguda, Chatua, Ganesh temple etc. Near Nandapur in the place of Subai, Paliba, Chatua, Khemundiguda, some Jaina remains and images are found. The Panthlung village of Nandapur and chandan hill of Simla are also attract the tourists.
Nandapur is about 14 miles from Semiliguda town. Historical remains and Jaina antiquities are found in Nandapur. The village was surrounded by a mud wall remains of which are still noticeable.
In Nandapur block of Panlung Panchayat remain the famous Raja Gumpha (cave) and Valmiki Aashrama. The Raj Gumpha (cave) is situated in the foot hill of “Nilama Hill” of Muktiamba village. The Raj Gumpha (cave) is three stored. The Sarveswara Siva temple of Nandapur is an old site of Saiva worship. A Ganesh image near the Bhitaragarh areas is another important spot, which has preserved one of the biggest sitting Ganesh images in Orissa. The image measures 6 feet 5 inches (1.8 mtr) in height and 5 feet and 6 inches in breadth. The Bhairavi temple in the Bhitaragarh area is nothing but a tin-roofed wooden structure. It contains much ruined images of Mahisamardini Durga, Ganesh, Narasimha, bull and few sati stones. In the undivided Koraput district the reigning Raj families of the locality have constructed many forts and gadas at places of strategic importance. Some of them are found in Nandapur village.
In the foot hill of Chandan Mali hill of Semala village “Maa Pata Devata” worshiped by the people every year. People from Semla, Alaghati, Nalichua, Doraput, Durkaput, Barput, Khadagpur, Baliaput, Burudeiput came to worship Maa Pata Devata.
In the village of Chatua, Nandaka, Handar, Badel Jaina images are found.
In Khurji panchayat of Nandapur block remain the village Semla. Near the village Semla situated the Chandan Mali hill. Inside the hill a cave is found. And inside the cave a Siva Linga named as “Pata Devata worshipped by the people. The place is surrounded by Sandal tree.
DUDHARI
In Semiliguda block of Dudhari village remain the old temple of “Maa Maulimaa”. About 12 Km away from Semiliguda situated the Dudhari village. The temple is very old. King of Jeypore erected the temple. Now many broken images and idols are found in the temple. Near the temple situated the “Chanakata” hill. In the foot hill remains the river “Kerandi”. The natural beauty of the place attracts many tourists.
SEMILIGUDA
The village is the head quarter of the Semiliguda police station in Koraput subdivision. Semiliguda is situated on Koraput Sunabeda road at a distance of 15 Kms from Koraput. A town ship is fast growing here. A remains of a fort named “Dumb Fort” is found in this place. Recently an agriculture mixed farm has been established in the village. Near Semiliguda situated the beautiful “Mali Pahada”. Mali Pahada is surrounded by beautiful waterfall and dense forest, which attract the tourists to this place.
PATALESWAR CAVE
In the Pottangi block of Koraput district about 40 Km away from Pottangi situated the Pedapadu village. Near the village remain a cave, inside which people worship some Jaina images and other Hindu goddesses. The cave is named as “Pataleswari” and Bana Devi Rushavnath by the local people. In the entrance of the cave a temple of Mahavir Jain is found. People worship the Jaina image as Sivalinga. Another Devi image is worshipped by the people as Devi Parvati.
From Pottangi on the ghat road on the way to Sunki one can reach at the ampabali road. From Ampabali about 20 Km away situated the Pataleswar cave. The Pataleswar cave of Ampabali is a beautiful tourist spot of Koraput District.
SUBEI
Some important Jaina remains are found in Koraput district. Among them Jain temple at Subei in the Koraput District of South Orissa is now a most important tourist place. This is the only surviving Jain temple in Orissa of the early medieval time. The village Subei is located at a distance of five miles from Nandapur of the Koraput District. Near the village, at the foot of the Panigiri hill, are noticed Jaina Monuments.
Groups of Jaina temples at Subei:- It is about 35 Km from Koraput on the main road leading to Nandapur. The site is located near the village Subei at the foot of Pangiri Hill.
Subei is situated on the road between Semiliguda and Nandapur. There is an old Jain Monastery and some images of Tirthankars are found. Subei, located at a place of abut 15 Km from Semiliguda in an important Jaina Site. There are large number of Jaina Sculptures scattered in the forest near Subei. There is a big Ganesh image near Subei.
BOIPARIGUDA
In the past Boipariguda was an important trade centre. The place Boipariguda means traders settlement. Boipariguda is 22 Km away from Jeypore. In the dense forest of the place the tribal people worship “BiraKhamba Devi” their main deity. This place is situated near the village Kendupoda. In Boipariguda block remains of Saivism are found. The Nilakantheswara Siva Pithe is 3 Km away from Boipariguda. In the foot hill of Birakhamba hill lord Nilakantheswara worshipped by the tribal people.
From Ramagiri on the way to Gupteswar road about 32 Km away situated the famous Historical Fort “Tikaragada”. In this place found many Historical remains, broken images and prisoner’s hand cuff, and Samadhi. In Tikaragada people worship Maa “Tikira Gadiani Devi”. Once the hand cuff of the prisoner’s are worshipped here.
In Boipariguda block of Gadiput village tribal people worship Pataleswar Siva. About 8 Km away from Boipariguda in the dense forest of Kolar Panchayat remain a cave in which “Mahadeva Dudumeswara Siva” is worshipped by the local tribal people. About 3 Km away from Kolar in the forest situated a cave named as “Dudumpar”. Inside the cave Dudumeswar Sivalinga is found.
MALIKESWARA OF MALYABANTA
About 107 km away from Jeypore on the road side remain the town named Malkangiri. But the place is famous as “Malyabanta giri about 935 foot height on the top of the hill situated a Sivalinga. Sivalinga is famous in the name of Malikeswara”. The height of the Sivalinga is more then 5 feet. The Sivalinga is situated in the top of the hill and in a open space. The place is surrounded by dense forests and hill which attracts many tourists.
JALAPUT
Jalaput is famous for a major reservoir that is Jalaput reservoir on the river Machkund. The reservoir water is utilized for power generation at ankadeli. This place is famous for Scenic beauty and a very good picnic spot. It attracts many tourists due to its natural beauty. This place is about 60 Km from Koraput.
DEOMALI
Deomali is the highest mountain peak of Orissa in the eastern ghat. Its height is 5800 feet above the sea level. It is an idyllic place for aero gliding and trekking expedition. Tourists in large number participate in trekking. Deomali is a important Eco tourist place of Koraput district. Many tourists came to here to enjoy the beauty of nature from the top of the Deomali hill. 3 view point is made for tourist to watch the beauty of the hill.
KUTIA
Kutia is about 26 km away from Kunduli village. After 39 km of Koraput in the national high way No 34 situated the Kunduli village. In Kutia area only the Kondha community are found. The name of the village Kutia named after these Kutia Kondha communities. Kutia is situated in the border area of Andhra and Orissa. These Kutia Kondha people believe and worship “Daru Devata” or “Daru Brahma”. For them a temple of Sri Jagannatha was constructed at Kutia village. The temple in the hill side surrounded by jungle and trees attract many tourists to this place.
BORIGUMMA
Borigumma situated mid way between Jeypore and Nowrangpur at a crossing of roads to Koraput via Raniguda and to Kotpad and Jagdalpur (M.P). About 1 km from the village, ruins of a fort, tanks, structures and a modern tin roofed temple popularly known as Bhairava temple which appears to have been belonged to the ancient Jaina temple are found. There is an inspection Bungalow maintained by public works department. Borigumma is famous for its old Jaina images and remains. Near Borigumma under the foot hill the famous Bhairava temple is situated. Near this place the Rajarani cave also situated.
KECHELA
The village Kechela situated on the southern bank of the river Kolab at a distance of 7 miles from the Bagara waterfall. The village Kechela is in Pottangi tahasil situated near by the Koraput town.
After the construction of modern reservoir on the river Kolab, presently one needs a boat to reach to the site. There is also a land route, but it is long and not connected by bus or public conveyance. Remains of a Jaina temple was in existence on the south of the Kechela village, but at present submerged in the Kolab water reservoir.
Once upon a time it was a strong hold of Jaina activity. To the south of the village under the foot of the Deo Donger hill are noticed the ruins of a stone temple and six sculptures of Jaina pantheon. It indicates that Kechela was a seat of Jainism in the medieval period.
PALIBA
Paliba is situated near Nandapur Railway station. Once the place was the centre of Jainism in different place of this area, found Parsvanath, Rishavanath, and Padmavati images. Another idol of twelve handed Devi image is also worshipped near the village “Kumaraganjana”. Near this Kumaraganjana hill a beautiful cave is situated. which is named ”Pitei Gumpha”.
ANKADELI
Ankadeli is under Lamtaput block of Koraput District. The weekly market of ankadeli is the main attraction for the local and foreign tourists. Near the Machkund reservoir on the way to Ankadeli road in every Thursday people of near by area visit to the weekly market. In this weekly market specially the Bonda people came to purchage and sell their products. Many people from Koraput, Andhra Pradesh and Malkangiri came to this weekly market to buy and sell. The Bonda people sell different forest products; some time foreign visitors came to this weekly market to watch the activities of the Bonda women.
AMPHABALI
Ampabali is under Pottangi block. In the Orissa and Andhra Pradesh border area from 90 Km away from Koraput the ancient cave remain in the road side of Ampabali. This cave is famous as “Pataleswar” cave in this area. Some Buddhist remains also found in this place. Near Ampabali a small village named Pedapadu situated. In Sivaratri festival many devotees from Andhra and Orissa came to worship the “Pataleswar Sivalinga” of the cave. The linga is about 2 feet height.
GADI-GULUMI
Gadi-Gulumi of Kundura block of Koraput district is a beautiful tourist place. This place is 24 Km away from Kundura. People came to here for picnic in the month of Dec-Jan. Tourists from Chhattisgarh and Koraput district came to here to enjoy the beauty of the place.
KANSPABLI
Kanspabli is a small island inside the back water of Kolab reservoir. One can glimpse the surrounding view from the watch tower. Tourist packages are available by Tourist office Koraput. Near the surrounding areas many broken Jaina remains and images are found. To reach the place Kanspabli people go through the motor lunch. The place is about 40 Km away from Koraput. And the tourists go through the Kolab reservoir about 10 Km in the motor lunch.
GUPTESWAR
Gupteswar Cave is at a distance of 42 Km from Jeypore and connected by black-top road. It is a place of natural beauty and is famous for its shrine. Travel to the cave is an exciting journey for one has to pass through a thick Sal forests covering about 15 Km. The cave is near the top of a lime stone hill which is about 500 ft. Higher than the surrounding area. One has to walk through flight of 176 steps flanked with line of champak trees. The entrance of the cave is 9 feet wide and 8 feet in hight. There is one rougly circular chamber of about 10 feet in diameter. There is one stalactite resembling lingam of 6 feet height and 10 feet in circumference. The lingam is called Gupteswar Mahadev because it is lying hidden inside the cave for a long time. There are several other caves but of little interest. In the second cave there is a large stalactite formed by dripping of water containing carbonates. People worship it is as the udder of Kamadhenu, the celestial cow and wait under it with out stretched palm to collect drops of water at long interval. (Gupteswar is the highest Saiva Phallic in the whole of India). Gupteswar is situated on the bank of river Saberi which divides Orissa and Chhattisgarh. People of Chhattisgarh call it Gupta Kedar. It is said that Ramachandra of epic fame passed through these hills and worshipped here lord Siva Kedarnath. The Lord blessed him. A hill near Gupteswar has been named after Ramachandra and called Ramagiri where Bondas reside. Gupteswar is located on a plateau surround by hills. State tourism department has built a tourists centre in the middle of this plateau where a tourist may make night halt.
PUJARIGUDA
Form Boipariguda to Ramagiri on the way to Gupteswar situated the Pujariguda village. Near the village in the dense forest remain the “Pataladei Pitha”. Here no image is worshipped but the stone feet of Devi is worshipped by the local people.
BHAIRAVASINGPUR
This village is situated in the Jeypore subdivision of Koraput. Bhairavasingpur is very rich in Jaina antiquities. As many as Twenty One Jaina statues of Risabhanatha, Parsvanatha, Ajitanatha, Mahavira, Ambika and Gomedha have been collected from this place for the district museum at Jeypore. The remains of ancient shrines are found in the form of mounds located in the foot hills of the near by hills.
GULUMI
Gulumi is about 32 Km away from Kotpad. Gulumi is a scenic spot situated in Kotpad block of Chatarla Pachayat amidst deep forest 90 Km from Jeypore, 35 Km from Kotpad. Gurgling sound of the river Kolab on rocky surface enchants the visitor. The waterfall of Gulumi and natural beauty of the place attract the tourists of Orissa, Chhattisgarh, and the people of Andhra Pradesh.
KENDUPADA
The village Kendupada lying at a distance of 3 Kilometre from Boipariguda. Here Birukhombo is the famous forest deity of the tribal people. Birukhombo is a variant from of the goddess Sthambheswari.
KAMTA
Kamta, a place rich in Jaina antiquities of the district yielded an image of Risabhanatha, bust of a Tirthankara and two pillars otherwise known as Subhastambhas for the district museum at Jeypore.
ALAMANDA
Alamanda is situated on the bank of river Jhanjhavati on Laxmipur Parvatipuram road in Narayanpatna Police Station. The Siva temple found here is of 17th century A.D. Sivaratri and Chaitra Jatra are the main festivals celebrated here.
BANDHUGAON
The village is under Narayanpatna Police Station and is served by Laxmipur-Parvatipuram road. A festival known as Agnigangamma is observed here every year.
LAXMIPUR
A village in Koraput subdivision. Turmeric is cultivated in the area round Laxmipur by the local Khonda:-
KOTPAD
Kotpad town is located at a distance of 40 km from Jeypore. It is considered as one of the healthier places in the district. In Kotpad some Jaina antiquities are found. The picturesque tank named Damayanti Sagar is situated to the west of the town. Kotpad is situated on the important main road, which connects Bastar with Jeypore and Salur. Damayanti Sagar is the oldest ponds of the districts.
PADUA
The village was the head quarters of the Pottangi taluk from 1893 to 1936. Its southern side is well guarded by a chain of hills, which separates the district of Koraput from Vizagapatam district.
RAMAGIRI
This place is situated between (Boipariguda) and Gupteswar road. The place is famous for its natural beauty and hilly areas. It is believed that Lord Sri Ram stayed for some time in Ramagiri hill. For this reasons the place is named as Ramagiri.
POTTANGI
Pottangi is situated on the main road of Salur Jeypore near the eastern edge of the 3,000 foot, Plateau at the base of the Damukuhills, the highest peak of which is 4, 642 feet above sea level. It is the coolest place of the district. The Gangeswari Devi is famous as village goddesses of the village.
JAMUNDA
It is an important Jaina site located in the Jeypore Tahasil of Koraput district. Recently as many as seven Jaina status have been collected from this place by the district museum. Jamunda is located near Jeypore town.
RAISIL
Raisil is 3 Km from Laxmipur. This is famous for one stone hill. There is perennial stream and attracts tourists.
SUNKI
The village is named after Col. Jankey, a German Engineer, who improved the Ghat roads. It is situated at the gateway of 3,000 foot plateau on the road running from Salur to Jeypore. There is a check post to prevent unauthorised removal of forest produce and smuggling of food grains. There is a P.W.D inspection Bungalow and a police out post.
NARAYANPATNA
Narayanpatna is a village. 102 km away from Koraput. It is situated at height of about 1,000 feet above the sea on the bank of river Jhanjhavati in the subdivision of Koraput. Temple of god Jhareswar stands on the bed of the river Jhanjhavati. The place is important for two historical remains named as “Satigarbha” and “Satikunda”. The ruins of an old mud fort survive as a relic of their residence. During the reign of Biswambara Deo on the side of the fort wall was constructed a big dam for the bathing purpose of his Ranis, which is called Gharia ghat. Narayanpatna was the capital of Jeypore kingdom for about 40 years. Near by Narayanpatna, Neelabadi is famous for the presiding deity of goddess Agnigangamma.
MALIGUDA TUNNEL
Maliguda is a small village; about 35 kilometres coastward from Jeypore. This is the India’s largest broad guage Railway Tunnel.
BAGRA WATERFALL
Bagra waterfall was one of the most attractive tourist spots not only of Koraput district but also of Orissa (Odisha). Bagra waterfall is 21 Kilometres from Koraput town and 10 Kilometres from Jeypore town. It is 5 Kilometre from Koraput to Jeypore National Highway. It is about 5 Kilometres from Khondhoguda. This was a famous picnic spot. After construction of upper Kolab reservoir the downstream of Kolab River became dry and thus the Bagra waterfall is now non existence. This is a rare case. To activise the waterfall; 1 or 2 cubic meter per second of water can be release for about 8 hours a day; so that this place will be once again a most attractive tourist spot. Exports stay that by this, there will be no irrigation loss and there will be only minor generation loss.
RAILWAYS IN KORAPUT
When we talk about development of Railways in Koraput district we mean undivided Koraput district, because the new district i.e. Koraput. Nabarangapur, Malkangiri and Rayagada district were formed on 2nd October 1992 only. Earlier all these new districts were under undivided Koraput district. All the Railway lines in Koraput district one under Walteir division of East Coast Zone. The total length of Railway line in Koraput District (Not Rayagada) is about 113 Km. The stations in Koraput district are Jemadeipentha - Rayagada - Singapore Road - Theruvali - Bissumcuttack Muniguda - Daikhll - Ambadola. The entire length of 158 Km (i.e. in Orissa) is in Koraput district. The stations which are in Koraput district are Darliput - Padua - Bijaguda - Machkund road - Paliba - Telaput - Koraput - Manabar - Jarti - Maliguda - Jeypore - Hadia- Kusumi - Kotpad. The total number of stations in this line is 42 Nos. There are 46 Tunnels, having total length of 12.76 Km, out of which 9.81 Km are with steel concrete lining.
1. Maliguda Tunnel is the highest broad gauge tunnel in India. It is about 50 Kms from Koraput Railway station and 25 Kms from Jeypore Railway station.
2. This was the highest broad gauge line in the world.
3. Semiliguda station (Andhra Pradesh) is the highest broad gauge station in India. It is 15 Kms from Aruku.
Koraput - Rayagada Rail line :- was constructed in two phases.
- The first phase work, i.e. Koraput Damanjodi line was completed in 1985.
- The Hirakhand Express (Koraput to Bhubaneswar) started in December 1997.
There are altogether 12 stations enroute. There are 36 Tunnels and the longest tunnel is 16 Km.
Koraput - Gopalpur via Gajapati:- This line will pass through Koraput - Rayagada - Gunpur, ParlaKhemundi - R Udayagiri, Digapahandi, Berhampur, Gopalpur. If these proposed will be considered, the tribal people of undivided Koraput district will be highly benefited.
DUMURIPUT
Dumuriput is a village located in between Koraput and Sunabeda by the side of N.H. 43. The famous Ram Temple is situated there over a vast field. A 32 feet kneading Hanuman statue attracts tourists passing by that road. Ram Navami festival is celebrated with Pomp and ceremony every year.
SUNABEDA
Sunabeda is 18 Km away from Koraput. Sunabeda is situated by the side of Koraput-Salur road at about 11 Miles to the East of Koraput; very recently an Aero-engine factory is being constructed here with an attached township. Sunabeda has become an urban centre with construction of HAL and Mil-Engine and Sukhoi-Engine factory. The modern township has been properly planned. The back water of Kolab reservoir adds picturesque beauty to the town. A deer park in side HAL Campus is a special attraction to the tourists.
HINDUSTAN AERONAUTICS LIMITED (H.A.L)
The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (H.A.L) is a Public sector company under the ministry of defence, Government of India. Today it is the largest P & U under department of defence production. It is now ranked 34th in the list of world’s top 100 defence companies. HAL Engine division Koraput is situated in Sunabeda under Semiliguda block and about 18 Kms away from the district head quarters Koraput. It may be noticed here that HAL is the first public sector undertaking in Odisha. Today HAL has emerged as a major Aeronautical Complex in Asia. Today HAL has rich and enviable experience of manufacturing more than 1000 aero engines and over hauling of over 4000 aero engines.
Hal has entered into a number of joint ventures for production and marketing of its products in India and international markets. HAL has supplied Dhruv, Lancer, Chetak and cheetah helicopters and Do-228 aircraft to international customers; over the last six decades HAL has been showing its capabilities in the field of air craft engineering catering to the needs of Indian defence. The mission of HAL to become a global player in the aerospace industry will be fulfilled. It is a pride of Odisha to have two divisions of such a prestigious company in Koraput, a backward region.
DAMANJODI
Damanjodi is a town came to light with the discovery of Bauxite mines in the Panchapatmali hills and setting up of Nalco, the biggest Alumina Complex in Asia. Nearby stands the highest peak of Orissa. The presiding deity “Kantabansuni” is there in the bamboo forest which offers another attraction to tourists. It is 35 Km away from Koraput. Prior permission is necessary from Nalco authority for visiting this place.
NALCO
On the auspicious day of 7th January 1981, M/s National Aluminium Company Limited (Nalco) was registered under the company’s Act to implement one of the largest integrated Alumina – Aluminium Complex in the State of Orissa. Nalco is the one of the largest Aluminium Complex in the world.
Development of road and Railway line: - The Koraput Rayagada Rail link was developed by the Indian Railways, for Nalco as Nalco paid for part of the capital cost; for the transportation of Alumina from the Damanjodi plant. The Rayagada - Koraput rail link is used for passenger traffic now and provides a very picturesque enchanting journey for the commuters as the train encircles the hills and passes through the 32 Nos of tunnels. This rail link has proved to be the economic cord of Koraput and also opened up tourism potential for the district.
The Nalco township adds to the beauty of Koraput, where in blue coloured flower trees of Jacaranda, pink and violet colours of lagerstroemias, golden garland flowers of sunari gives a illasirn of Kashmir in winter and summer seasons. The hill top parks at pan cheat malli mines as well as the numerous streams along the serpentine road to hill top mine attract dozens of parties for picnic. The newly developed Shiva Lake and the Sabari Lake are points of celebration and marry making.
UPPER KOLAB
The river Kolab originates from within the Pottangi plateau. After flowing for some distance, the river flows down in several rapids and falls to the lower Jeypore plateau. In the district of Koraput upper Kolab dam is the main tourist place. Inside the dam a beautiful park and the natural beauty of the place attracts many people from Koraput and outside the district. Inside the reservoir remain “Kechela Jaina Temple”. Boating facility for the tourists also available in the reservoir.
Kolab Hydro Power Project has been constructed in the upstream of the river Kolab Originating from within the Pottangi Plateau. The Project is supplying drinking water to Jeypore, Koraput, Sunabeda and Damanjodi.
It is located at a distance of 15 Km from Jeypore. At the toe of the Dam a Brindabana type garden has been developed. The area has been covered with a lot of decorative and fruit bearing trees, shrubs and flowers buds. Local tourists come in large numbers for picnic and enjoy the scenic beauty by the dam site. There is ample scope for water sport in the dam. Further development of dam site and its surrounding would create ample scope for development of domestic tourism besides the recreation facilities.