Odisha is known to preserve India’s largest forest land area, which includes various species of plants, trees, animals, and mesmerizing waterfalls. The tourism sector has seen Odisha’s growth due to its natural beauty, and tourism recognized it globally.
However, Odisha’s waterfalls have a unique attraction for visitors both locally and internationally. NO matter if it’s a sunny day or cloudy, waterfalls offers tremendous fun.
So, here are some of the best Waterfalls of Odisha that are worth visiting:
1. Badaghagara Waterfall
It is a waterfall that has water all around the year. Part of a small river called the Machha Kandana. It has a height of sixty meters. It is located at a distance of nine kilometres from the district headquarters of the Kandahar district.
It is a part of a shorter waterfall called Sanaghagara Waterfall, which begins three kilometres upstream.
Location: Kendujhar District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Height: Approximately 60 meters
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush green forests
- Picnic Spot: Ideal for family outings and picnics
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Picnicking, photography, nature walks
Tips: Carry food and water as facilities are limited. Wear comfortable walking shoes for the short trek to the waterfall.
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2. Duduma Waterfall
It is a horsetail type waterfall with a height of 175 metres. It has two sub-waterfalls, one in the Koraput district in Odisha and another in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
It is formed by the Machkund River, which is a pilgrimage destination. Nestled between thick coverings of deciduous forest, it looks like a gateway to heaven.
A dam has been constructed on it, consisting of 6 units and a capacity of generating 120 megawatts of electricity. It is located about 92 km away from Koraput and 177 km away from Vishakhapatnam.
Location: Koraput District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Height: Approximately 157 meters
- Twin Falls: Divides into two streams, forming a beautiful twin waterfall
- Hydroelectric Project: Nearby Machkund hydroelectric project adds to the attraction
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Photography, nature walks, exploring the hydroelectric project
Tips: The area can be slippery, so wear sturdy footwear. Carry snacks and water as the location is relatively remote.
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3. Barehipani Waterfall
Barehipaniis the second-highest waterfall in India, with 400 metres. And it is a perennial stream with water all around the year. It is nested around Simplipal Natural Park, which makes it a prime location for tourism. The River Budhabalanga generates it.
It houses 1076 species of plants belonging to 102 families with 96 species of orchids. The fauna here totals 42 species of mammals like tiger, giant squirrel, leopard and Asian elephants, 242 species of birds and 30 species of reptiles.
Location: Simlipal National Park, Mayurbhanj District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Height: Approximately 399 meters
- Two-Tiered Fall: One of the highest waterfalls in India
- Wildlife: Located within Simlipal National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna
Best Time to Visit: October to June
Activities: Wildlife spotting, trekking, photography
Tips: Obtain necessary permits to enter Simlipal National Park. Carry insect repellent and wear long sleeves to protect from insects.
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4. Harishankar Waterfall
It is named after the temple it is attached with, the Harishankar temple, which was constructed around the 14th century, making it a pilgrimage place. It is located in the hills of Gandhamardan, south of the city of Rourkela.
Inside the temple, there is a huge statue of Lord Hanuman and a dancing statue of Lord Ganesha. The nearest town from where you can reach here is Jharsuguda.
There are various tourist spots like Ispat Nehru Park, Indira Gandhi Park and Hanuman Vatika.
Location: Balangir District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Scenic Location: Situated on the slopes of the Gandhamardhan hills
- Temple: Nearby Harishankar Temple adds a spiritual touch to the visit
- Nature Trails: Various trekking routes around the waterfall
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Pilgrimage, trekking, picnicking
Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Respect the sanctity of the temple area.
5. Khandadhar Waterfall
It is a horsetail type of waterfall dropping from a height of 244 metres, making it India’s 12th highest waterfall. It is situated in the Sundergarh district of the state. Tourists can hike here in the post-monsoon season as it is the best time to visit it.
It is named after a goddess named Khand Kumari. It streams out of a deep hole and is the source of water for the tribes like the Pauri Bhuliyas.
Location: Sundergarh District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Height: Approximately 244 meters
- Horsetail Fall: Unique horsetail shape, creating a stunning visual
- Dense Forests: Surrounded by thick forests, offering a serene atmosphere
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Trekking, photography, nature walks
Tips: The trek to the waterfall can be challenging. Carry sufficient water and snacks, and wear proper trekking gear.
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6. Pradhanpat Waterfall
It belongs to the city of Deogarh and is blessed with astounding hills and deep forests. It falls from a height of 9.1 metres and makes soothing echo sounds. It is perfect for photography tours due to its verdant beauty.
The steep hills, the waterfall and the dense forest make it ideal for picnics. The temples of Deogarh add another choice to visit when near Pradhanpat falls.
Location: Deogarh District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Height: Approximately 15 meters
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from Deogarh town
- Picnic Spot: Popular among locals for picnics and day trips
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Activities: Picnicking, photography, nature walks
Tips: Facilities are available nearby. Ideal for a short visit or a day trip.
7. Nrusinghanath Waterfall
It gets its name from the temple it is close to, the Nrusinghanath temple. It is situated at the foothills of the Gandhamardan hill, towards the north. It is surrounded by dark forest and hilly terrains of Bargarh District.
The best time to visit the fall would be between October and March. There are many smaller waterfalls like Gadadhar, Pitrudhar and Chaladhar around the temple of Nrusinghanath.
Location: Bargarh District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Scenic Beauty: Located on the foothills of Gandhamardan hills
- Temple: Nrusinghanath Temple is a popular pilgrimage site nearby
- Cascading Fall: Flows in multiple cascades, creating a picturesque view
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Pilgrimage, trekking, picnicking
Tips: Combine the visit with a trip to the Nrusinghanath Temple. Carry water and light snacks.
8. Handibhanga Waterfall
It is carved out of the Bahalada Village of Keonjhar District. It flows down from a height of 30 metres; the best time to visit would be between October and March. It is located near another famous waterfall called the Sanghaghra waterfall.
Village sightseeing is also a good option to learn more about the cultures and traditions of the tribes living in that area. Many wild animals like the Indian Gaurs can be found roaming in the forest.
Location: Kendujhar District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Height: Approximately 30 meters
- Tranquil Spot: Lesser-known, offering a peaceful environment
- Forested Area: Surrounded by dense forests, enhancing its natural beauty
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Photography, picnicking, nature walks
Tips: Ideal for those seeking solitude and tranquility. Carry essentials as facilities are limited.
9. Phurlijharan Waterfall
It is located in the Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary in the Kalahandi district. It is 15 kilometres away from the city of Bhawanipatna. Its flow direction is that you can see a good rainbow during the day when the sunray falls on it.
It descends from a height of 9.1 metres. The best time to visit is in the months between September to January.
Location: Kalahandi District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Height: Approximately 16 meters
- Rainbow Effect: Known for the rainbow created by the sun’s rays through the water mist
- Picnic Spot: Popular among locals for picnicking
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Picnicking, photography, nature walks
Tips: Visit during mid-morning to early afternoon for the best chance of seeing the rainbow effect.
10. Murga Mahadev Waterfall
This waterfall also gets its name from the temple adjacent to it, called the MurgaMahadev temple. Visiting this place is during the festivals of Kartika, Shravana, and Shivratri shows the real charm of the area.
The best time to visit this place would be between October to March as the weather during these months is pleasant. It is one of the major picnic spots in Odisha. It drops from a height of 30 feet and is a perennial type of waterfall.
Location: Kendujhar District, Odisha
Highlights:
- Temple: Murga Mahadev Temple located nearby
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by dense forests and rocky terrain
- Tranquil Environment: Ideal for a peaceful retreat
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Activities: Pilgrimage, picnicking, nature walks
Tips: Combine the visit with the temple. Carry water and snacks as the area is remote.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the highest waterfall in Odisha?
Barehipani Waterfall in Simlipal National Park is the highest waterfall in Odisha, with a height of 399 meters.
2. What is the second highest waterfall in Odisha?
The second highest waterfall in Odisha is Khandadhar Waterfall in Sundargarh, with a height of 244 meters.
3. How many waterfalls are there in Odisha?
Odisha has over 20 significant waterfalls.
4. Which are the most beautiful waterfalls in Odisha?
Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Odisha include Barehipani, Duduma, Khandadhar, Harishankar, and Handibhanga waterfalls.
5. What is the biggest waterfall in Odisha?
Barehipani Waterfall is considered the biggest in terms of height.
6. Which waterfall is best for a picnic in Odisha?
Harishankar Waterfall and Phurlijharan Waterfall are popular picnic spots in Odisha.
7. What is the best waterfall to visit near Bhubaneswar?
Bhimkund Waterfall and Khandadhar Waterfall are good options near Bhubaneswar.
8. Where is Duduma Waterfall located?
Duduma Waterfall is located on the border of Koraput and Malkangiri districts in Odisha.
9. Which waterfalls are close to Puri?
The Dhabaleswar Waterfall near Cuttack is relatively close to Puri.
10. Is there a waterfall in Simlipal National Park?
Yes, the Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls are in Simlipal National Park.
11. What are some famous waterfalls in Odisha?
Famous waterfalls in Odisha include Barehipani, Duduma, Khandadhar, Harishankar, and Handibhanga waterfalls.
12. Are there any waterfalls in Bhubaneswar?
Bhubaneswar itself doesn’t have waterfalls, but there are several nearby, such as Bhimkund and Khandadhar.
13. Which waterfall is closest to Rourkela?
Khandadhar Waterfall is the closest major waterfall to Rourkela.
14. What is the best time to visit waterfalls in Odisha?
The best time to visit waterfalls in Odisha is during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons (June to November).
15. Are there any lesser-known waterfalls in Odisha?
Yes, lesser-known waterfalls include Nrusinghanath Waterfall and Galigabdar Waterfall in Koraput.
