Unveil the best and beautiful Keonjhar, Odisha’s hidden gem
Explore Keonjhar, the land of waterfalls, minerals, and tribals
Keonjhar is a treasure trove for travellers who crave solitude, raw natural beauty, and rich cultural traditions. Ideal for slow-paced journeys and eco-conscious explorers, this off-the-beaten-path region in northern Odisha offers an unforgettable mix of cascading falls, ancient temples, and tribal heritage – all far removed from the commercial tourist trail.
Day 1: Welcome to Keonjhar – A Peaceful Start Amidst Nature and Faith
Morning: Arrive & Check In
Begin your journey by arriving at Keonjhar town. Reach via Keonjhar or Joda Railway Station; the nearest airport is in Bhubaneswar (around 220 km away). Check into a comfortable eco-resort or local hotel. Start the day with a traditional Odia breakfast to energize yourself.
Late Morning to Afternoon: Sanaghagara Waterfall Adventure
Travel a short 5 km to Sanaghagara Waterfall – a charming 30-foot cascade nestled within lush sal and teak groves. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy a picnic, or relax by the waterside. Stroll through Sanaghagara Nature Park which features a boating area, children’s play zone, tribal art displays, and walking paths.
Evening: Spiritual Sojourn to Gonasika
Venture 40 km to Gonasika Hills, the birthplace of the holy Baitarani River. Visit the ancient Brahmeswar Mahadev Temple, believed to be centuries old. Experience the unique river origin flowing from a cow-head-shaped rock known as “Gomukh”. Return to town for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Immersing in Wilderness and Tribal Traditions
Morning: Discover Badaghagara Waterfall
Post breakfast, drive about 10 km to witness the grandeur of Badaghagara Waterfall – a dramatic 200-foot drop surrounded by pristine forest.
Engage in photography or a brief hike around the area, embracing the untouched beauty of Keonjhar’s wild landscape.
Late Morning: Forest Trail to Murga Mahadev Temple
Next, explore the remote Murga Mahadev Temple tucked within wooded hills. Both indigenous tribes and Hindu pilgrims visit this sacred Shiva shrine. The tranquil setting, with flowing streams and rocky backdrops, is perfect for moments of silence or meditation.
Lunch: Choose between returning to town for a traditional meal, carrying a packed lunch, or arranging a tribal village lunch experience in advance.
Afternoon: Glimpse into Tribal Life (Optional)
If you’re keen, visit a Ho or Juang tribal hamlet. Get an insight into indigenous lifestyles, traditional housing, food preparation, and handicrafts.
Enjoy a local dance or craft demonstration, arranged through tribal tourism groups.
Evening: Market Walk & Royal Sights
Stroll through Keonjhar’s local market to browse woven fabrics, bamboo items, and regional delicacies like Chhenapoda.
Take an exterior view of the Keonjhar Palace, once home to the royal Bhanja dynasty. Though not open for interiors, the facade is worth a look.
Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.
Day 3: Khandadhar Majesty & Mining Belt Drive
Morning: Scenic Drive to Khandadhar Waterfall (80 km / 2.5 hours)
Depart early to reach Khandadhar Falls – Odisha’s tallest waterfalls at over 500 feet. Set amidst rocky cliffs near Baneikala or Telkoi, this mesmerizing cascade is especially photogenic post-monsoon. Walk through forest trails and enjoy a relaxed picnic near the waterfall or at a nearby forest rest house.
Afternoon: Glimpse of Industrial Keonjhar (Optional)
Drive through the mineral-rich belt of Joda-Barbil. The region is home to major open-cast iron ore mining operations. For a contrasting experience, visit Noamundi’s Tata Steel Eco-Park near the Jharkhand border, offering insight into sustainable mining.
Return to Keonjhar for the evening.
Evening: Tribal Folk Night or Bonfire Gathering (On Request)
Eco-stays may offer tribal dance performances around a bonfire. Savor local cuisine while stargazing in the hills, or unwind after a full day.
Day 4: Final Blessings & Departure
Morning: Temple Visit on the Way Out
On your return route, consider visiting either Jhadeshwar Temple or the revered Ghatgaon Tarini Shrine (about 45 km away), an important seat of Shakti worship.
Midday:
Break your journey at a roadside eatery. Relish an authentic Odia thali featuring dalma, fish curry, and leafy saag. Proceed toward Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur, or Rourkela to catch your onward travel connection.
Quick Travel Guide
Best Season to Visit: October to February is ideal, with lush greenery and active waterfalls. Avoid heavy monsoon months due to slippery trails.
Where to Stay: Choose from eco-lodges near Sanaghagara, simple hotels in town, or pre-book forest rest houses.
Food to Try: Don’t miss Chhenapoda (caramelized cheese dessert), pakhala (fermented rice), dalma (lentil and veg), or spicy mutton curry.
Packing Essentials: Trek shoes, light winter wear, mosquito repellent, torchlight, and a water bottle.
Permissions: No special permits are needed, but notify forest officials if venturing into deeper reserves.
Languages Spoken: Odia is the primary tongue, but basic Hindi and some English are understood. Locals are warm and welcoming.
Ready to explore offbeat Odisha with the best tour packages from Excursion2India? Also, treat yourself to customized tour packages to all over India, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Bali, and many more destinations with Excursion2India!
Please feel free to write to us at [email protected]. Please call us at +91-9163580464. You can also reach us over WhatsApp at +91- 9875310291.
Please let us know in your WhatsApp message to us if you want join our WhatsApp Group. Those in our WhatsApp group will get to know about our tours in advance and may avail possible early bird discounts.