Dhenkanal

About Dhenkanal

Dhenkanal town, east-central Odisha state, eastern India. The town is named for Dhenka, a medieval chieftain of the Savara people. It is a marketplace for Rice, Oilseeds and Timber and is a center of Handloom weaving.

With a long, rich history of strong rulers that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, Dhenkanal is filled with imposing palaces and forts, and intriguing archaeological remains of eras gone by. Much of the region is covered in dense foliage and gushing rivers, such as the Brahmani and Mahanadi and is home to many species of Flora and Wildlife. These areas are bound to excite travelers who have a desire for wildlife and natural wonders. A number of temples also dot this scenic city, notching up its Tourism quotient quite high.

Top 6 Places to Visit in Dhenkanal

Kapilash: It is one of the famous Saiva Pitha of Odisha and also a well-known tourist place. This place is supposedly known as Second Kailash. The way to the temple consists of 1352 steps.The temple was built in 1246 AD by King Narasinghdeva-I. Marichi kunda & Payamruta kunda exist on the right and left side respectively of the main temple. A number of festivals are celebrated here at Kapilas. But the celebration of Maha Shivaratri is a festival to watch.

Saptasajya: A place of scenic beauty, Saptasajya is situated at a distance of about 11 km to the south of Dhenkanal town. According to legends, ‘Pandavas’ spent some days of their disguisedlife(Agnuata vasa) in these hills. The temple of Raghunath, built in honor of Lord Rama, Laxman and Sita by Rani Ratnaprava Devi of Dhenkanal attracts large crowds every year on the day of Ramanavami, in the month of March-April. A small spring flowing close by enhances the beauty of the place. It is an ideal place for picnic and relaxation.

Saranga: At this place, you will find an Anantasyi image of Lord Vishnu, on the rocky bed of the river Brahmani at Saranga. The lids of Ananta, the serpent king spread over the head of Lord Vishnu as the crown and cover. The primal lotus, housing Brahma, the creator originates from Vishnu’s navel, the Supreme Being enjoying the deep delight of his cosmic sleep in the waters of the river Brahmani.

Joranda: Famous as the religious headquarters of Mahima Dharma, Joranda houses the Samadhi of Mahima Gosain, the preacher and propounder of the Mahima Trendy. The other revered temples are the Sunya Mandira, Dhuni Mandira and Gadi Mandira. Pilgrims in large numbers pour into the Joranda fair for celebrations.

Kualo: 72 km from Dhenkanal, Kualo is famous for housing a plethora of temples dedicated to Lord Kanakeswar, Baidyanath, Paschimeswar, Balunkeswar and Kapileswar. In its ruined form, the temple of Kanakeswar is about 24 meters high and preserves some of the earliest specimens of sculptures representing ancient temple building activities in Odisha.

Dandadhar Dam: 67 km from Dhenkanal, Dandadhar is the site of an irrigation project on the river Ramial – an ideal place for outings. Its blue expanse of iridescent waters caged in a sun-bathed valley is a pleasure for the searching eyes.