Odisha, India’s Best Kept Secret. But within this land of wonders lies another secret, even more mystical, more untouched — Koraput, Odisha’s best kept secret. It’s a paradise wrapped in the silence of the Eastern Ghats, where nature lives in its purest form and culture breathes through ancient roots.
Hidden away from mainstream tourist places of Odisha, Koraput is the kind of place where adventurers, travelers, nature lovers, and seekers of peace feel instantly at home. From scenic hilltops and sparkling waterfalls to sacred heritage and vibrant tribal culture, Koraput tourism promises experiences that remain in the heart forever.
Nature’s Canvas: Hills, Valleys & Waterfalls
Koraput’s stunning natural scenery is nothing but a masterpiece. Hills wrapped in forests rise and fall across the horizon, while valleys stretch below in deep, lush green. Every path brings fresh, captivating views, and open skies make it a dream-like experience.
Hidden waterfalls tumble through thick jungles, creating calm pools that glow under soft sunlight. Reaching them is both thrilling and peaceful — a true escape into the unexplored beauty of Koraput.
Popular Natural Spots to Explore in Koraput:
• Deomali Hill– Highest peak of Odisha, rises to about 1,672 metres above sea level. The road climbs through lush terrain, and the final stretches reward you with sweeping panoramas of forest, ridges and distant hills. It’s a popular spot for trekking, camping and paragliding.
• Kalyamali Hill– It rises to around 1,548 metres, making it the 4th highest peak in Odisha. Blanketed with dense forest it offers wide valleys and enchanting view of the surrounding.
• Talamali Hill– It offers broad, sweeping perspectives of the surrounding valleys and hills, and its tranquillity. It’s particularly suited for camping in a magnificent meadow-atmosphere, or for gentle hikes that rise to a vantage point instead of steep climbs.
• Duduma Waterfall– It is a spectacular natural cascade on the Machkund River, plunging around 157 to 175 m. Also famous by the name of Matsya Tirtha, this mesmerising fall offers soul warming locations for photography and picnic.
• Rani Duduma Waterfall– Consists of multiple cascades, three of them are prominent falls where two of them are accessible through trekking.
• Kolab Reservoir– Situated at about 3000 ft above sea level, this dam serves multiple purposes: hydroelectric power generation, irrigation and drinking water supply. It’s also a quite popular picnic spot.
A Cultural Treasure: Land of Rich Tribal Heritage
Koraput is home to many indigenous tribes, each has its own customs, festivals, dialect, and lifestyle — a beautiful blend of identities living in harmony with nature. Their colorful festivals, unique customs, handcrafted art, and heart-warming hospitality make every encounter feel special and culturally rich.
Tribal attractions-
• Tribal Museum: A fascinating look into the history, art, tools, and traditions of the region’s tribes.
• Kotpad Textiles: India’s first GI-tagged tribal textile, known for its natural dyeing and exquisite designs.
• Weekly Local Markets: Explore market lanes filled with tribal jewelry, spices, food and traditional textiles.
• Tribal Coffee: Enjoy Koraput’s renowned organically harvested indigenous coffee.
• Village Visits & Folk Performances: Witness traditional dance, music, and storytelling that celebrate tribal heritage and community spirit.
Spiritual Escapes:
Amid the untouched beauty of Koraput, various historical temples are standing with timeless grace.
Here, spirituality is woven into the very landscape — where forests whisper prayers and hills watch over sacred shrines.
Whether you seek a peaceful moment, or a simple break from the adventures of Koraput, these divine sites offer you the space to breathe easier, reflect deeper, and rediscover the quiet voice within your soul.
Popular Spiritual Sites-
• Gupteswar Cave Temple: A sacred Shiva shrine hidden within deep forests and limestone caves, known for its mystical aura.
• Subai Jain Temple: A historic Jain temple, admired for its ancient significance and calm surroundings.
• Sabara Srikhetra: A beautiful Jagannath temple that reflects the essence of Odisha’s culture and beliefs.
Adventure Activities: A Paradise for Thrill Seekers
Travelers who crave thrill will find many to love. Winter is the best time to visit — cool weather, clear views, and the joy of waking up inside clouds among rolling mountains. For those who love the outdoor fun, Koraput turns every day into a fascinating expedition.
Adventure Highlights:
• Trekking Trails– Explore scenic routes through Deomali, Talamali, and Kalyamali hills — each offering panoramic views and untouched wilderness.
• Paragliding Adventures– Soar above valleys and forests, watching Koraput’s landscape unfold like a living painting.
• Waterfall Trails– Hike through forests to reach stunning cascades like Rani Duduma, where the sound of rushing water echoes through the valleys.
• Nature Walks– Perfect for those seeking peace — stroll through serene forests and listen to the symphony of birds at dawn.
Koraput Hilltop Carnival: A Celebration of Life
From October to February, Koraput transforms into a vibrant festive stage with the Koraput Hilltop Carnival — a five-month-long celebration of adventure, music, culture, and local traditions.
From trekking and paragliding to tribal performances and artisanal displays, the carnival captures the very soul of this region. It’s one of the best ways to explore — lively and colorful, yet deeply connected to nature and heritage.
Highlights of the Koraput Hilltop Carnival 2025:
• Adventure Activities: Thrilling experiences like trekking, paragliding, and zip-lining across the scenic hills.
• Hilltop Camping: Spend nights under a starlit sky, surrounded by misty peaks and the warmth of bonfires — a perfect blend of peace and thrill.
• Cultural Performances: Traditional tribal music, folk dances, and drama shows that bring local legends to life.
• Local Cuisine Stalls: Authentic tribal and Odia delicacies served fresh, letting visitors taste the true flavor of the region.
• Night Festivities: Light shows, open-air concerts, and campfires under starry skies turn the hills into a glowing festive wonderland.
Camping & Glamping At KHC:
For those looking to stay amid nature, the Koraput Hilltop Camping and Glamping sites offer a cozy retreat with all essential comforts. Guests can enjoy station pickup and drop, comfortable accommodation options including cottage stays, and delicious breakfast, dinner, and high tea. Each stay includes attached washroom facilities, blending the charm of outdoor living with modern convenience. From traditional camping under the stars to luxury camping experiences surrounded by misty hills, every moment here promises comfort, serenity, and an unforgettable connection with nature.
Finest Eco-Tourism:
Koraput stands as a shining example of eco-tourism in Odisha. Its untouched landscapes invite travelers to explore responsibly and appreciate the delicate balance of nature. From scenic hill stays to the eco retreat in Koraput, every experience promotes harmony between comfort and conservation. The district encourages sustainable travel practices, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the wilderness while protecting it for generations to come.
Why Koraput Remains a Hidden Treasure:
Though blessed with stunning landscapes and rich culture, still Koraput is Odisha’s best-kept secret. Its distance from the usual tourist places has helped it retain a rare, untouched charm. Those who journey here find a place that feels both wild and welcoming — adventurous yet serene.
Final Thoughts:
Some places are tourist destinations. But some are heavenly discoveries.
Koraput is the kind of discovery that feels like a secret poetry written by nature itself — a treasure preserved by time and silence.
Here, misty hills cradle emerald valleys, waterfalls sing through ancient forests, and tribal melodies echo in the distance. Every corner feels untouched, every sunrise feels ethereal— that’s what makes Koraput the best-kept secret of Odisha.
Visit once, and its magic will linger with you forever.