Odisha is abode to plenty of natural attractions, wildlife sanctuaries, temples, beaches and resources worth seeing and visiting. Also, the state is enriched with umpteen waterfalls and lakes scattered all over the region. One must not miss exploring these as there is no doubt it is the place to be for a relaxing getaway. The top-notch and worth checking out waterfalls and lakes that you must include in your itinerary are as follows.
1. Barehipani:- This is Odisha’s and India’s second-highest waterfall and it lies in the Mayurbhanj district of the state. The district is famous for sheltering Bengal tigers, wild elephants, and Indian Bison, and the waterfall comes down from 400 meters. At the time of the full moon, it looks unworldly.
2. Pradhanpat:- This incredible waterfall is famous for having the first hydroelectric power unit in Deogarh city in Odisha, surrounded by the rare scenic beauty of nature. It has hills on all four sides, covered by a thick forest helping in hearing the pleasant sound of the water.
3. Duduma:- This magnificent waterfall is situated in Odisha’s Southernmost state called, Malkangiri. The water falls from a height of 155 meters, providing water to the Machhakunda Dam. The area was known to be ruled by the Nanda dynasty of Magadha.
4. Joranda:- It is the 19th highest waterfall in India and is also the home to Similipal National Park. The water falls from a height of 150 meters, and the place is surrounded by thick forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and tall trees, giving it a breathtaking appeal.
5. Khandadhar:- Perfect spot for hiking and trekking and among nature lovers, this waterfall is famous as the second highest waterfall in Odisha and the 12th highest in India. The waterfall looks like a sword, and the area is enriched with rare medicinal plants.
6. Hatipathar:- A great spot to have a picnic with friends and family, this waterfall is located in the Rayagada district in Odisha. Its height is 334 meters, and October to February is an excellent time to visit here.
7. Lulung:- This waterfall is a great place for people who love nature and adventure. Surrounded by hill rocks and scenic views, it is at an altitude of 300 meters.
8. Sanaghagara:- It is a famous picnic spot in the Kendujhar district in Odisha. The combination of pools, waterfalls, rocks and green forests gives tourists and visitors a fantastic place to look around and explore.
9. Hirakud:- It is constructed over the Mahanadi River, and behind it lies a lake 55 km long and worth visiting once in a lifetime.
10. Tampara:- The lake is among one of the freshest water lakes in Odisha, located nearby the Chilika lagoon, where tourists can enjoy boating and water scooter rides.
11. Chilika:- Sprawled in a large area of 1100 square kms, it is popularly known as the world’s second-largest brackish water lagoon. Covering the Puri, Ganjam, and Khurda districts of the state, it is the biggest wintering ground and has an ecosystem for migratory birds and fishery resources.
12. Anshupa:- This freshwater lake is a 141-hectare horseshoe-shaped located on the left bank side of the Mahanadi river in Cuttack district in Odisha. Boating and fishing facilities are accessible here around the lake.
13. Kanjia :- Located on the Northern outskirts of Bhubaneswar city in Odisha, this naturally beautiful lake is spread over a large area of 190 acres of land, enriched with rich biodiversity.
14. Devkund:- There are five waterfalls at this famous religious and tourist site in Odisha. Devkund is one of them and is at the height of 50 feet from the ground. Tourists can even bathe and have a gala time here.
The captivating south-eastern Odisha state is home to plenty of variety found in flora and fauna. The host of bird and wildlife sanctuaries is evident, with each one being unique and spectacular and every nature lover’s delight. Undeniably, the state is among one of the most pristine destinations of the country, blessed with the most exceptional wildlife and natural resources that can make anyone feel filled with a sense of wonder, amazement and bliss.