If you are looking for a scenic and serene getaway in Odisha, you should definitely visit Khandadhar Falls. This is one of the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in the state, located in Kendujhar district. In this blog post, I will tell you everything you need to know about Khandadhar Falls, including how to reach there, what to see and do, and some tips for a memorable trip.
What is Khandadhar Falls?
Khandadhar Falls (Odia: ଖଣ୍ଡାଧାର ଜଳପ୍ରପାତ) is a 500 ft (152 m) high waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff in the midst of a dense forest. The name Khandadhar means “sword-like” in Odia, as the waterfall resembles a sharp blade cutting through the greenery. The waterfall has a “smoke-like” appearance created by the spraying of water as it falls down the rock face. It also creates a stunning rainbow at the base of the fall, adding to its charm.
Khandadhar Falls is located in Khandadhar Hill, one of the hills partially in Kendujhar district. On the opposite side of the hill, there is another waterfall with the same name, Khandadhar Falls, Sundagarh, which is located in Banei subdivision of Sundagarh district.
How to Reach Khandadhar Falls?
Khandadhar Falls is about 54 km away from Keonjhar town, which is the nearest major city. You can reach Keonjhar by bus or train from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, or other cities in Odisha. From Keonjhar, you can hire a taxi or a bike to reach Khandadhar Falls. The road from Keonjhar passes through jungle and some tribal villages, offering a scenic drive.
Alternatively, you can also reach Khandadhar Falls from Rourkela, which is about 100 km away. You can take a bus or train to Banei and then hire a taxi or bike to reach the waterfall.
What to See and Do at Khandadhar Falls?
The main attraction at Khandadhar Falls is, of course, the waterfall itself. You can enjoy the view of the waterfall from a distance or climb down the steps to reach the base of the fall. There you can feel the spray of water on your face and take some amazing photos with the rainbow. You can also take a dip in the pool formed by the waterfall, but be careful as it can be slippery and deep.
Apart from the waterfall, you can also explore the surrounding forest and hills. The area is rich in biodiversity and home to many birds and animals. You might spot some peacocks, monkeys, deer, or even elephants if you are lucky. You can also go for trekking or camping in the forest if you are feeling adventurous.
Tips for Visiting Khandadhar Falls
Here are some tips to make your visit to Khandadhar Falls more enjoyable and safe:
- The best time to visit Khandadhar Falls is during or after the monsoon season (July-October), when the waterfall is at its full glory. However, you can also visit during other seasons as the waterfall never dries up completely.
- Carry enough water and snacks with you as there are no shops or restaurants near the waterfall. You can also pack a picnic basket and enjoy your meal near the waterfall.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you will have to walk and climb some steps to reach the waterfall. Also carry an umbrella or raincoat as it might rain anytime.
- Be respectful of nature and do not litter or harm any plants or animals. Do not feed any wild animals as it might disturb their natural behavior.
- Do not venture too close to the edge of the waterfall or swim alone in the pool. Follow the instructions of the local guides and authorities for your safety.
I hope this blog post has inspired you to visit Khandadhar Falls and experience its beauty for yourself. If you have any questions or suggestions about this topic, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!
N.B.: This image is taken by Nirakar Khuntia and shared with CC-BY-SA-4.0 license.
0 Comments