On World Tourism Day, discover Koraput – where waterfalls sing, hills whisper, tribes celebrate, and temples inspire.

Koraput – A Unique Blend of Nature, Culture and Heritage From Deomali to Duduma, Kotpad to Gupteswar – Koraput is nature’s masterpiece and culture’s heartbeat

On the occasion of World Tourism Day, Koraput is being highlighted as one of Odisha’s most promising destinations where nature, culture, and heritage come together to create a unique travel experience.

The government has rolled out fresh initiatives to boost tourism in the district. Major funds have been sanctioned for the development of Deomali hill, Gupteswar cave, Duduma waterfall and Kolab reservoir. Plans to start hot air balloon rides and a cruise service on Kolab reservoir are also in the pipeline, promising to attract adventure seekers and families alike.

Koraput’s natural charm lies in its breathtaking waterfalls like Rani Duduma, Bagara and Hatipathar, and its rolling hilltops at Nandapur, Sunabeda and Kunduli. Covered in forests and mist, these places are already becoming hotspots for monsoon and winter tourism.

At the heart of Koraput’s identity are its tribal communities, who form a major part of the population. More than 50 tribal groups, including the Paraja, Kondh, Gadaba, Bonda and Mali, enrich the land with their unique culture, festivals, dances and rituals. Weekly tribal markets or haats in places like Kunduli and Onkadeli are a major attraction for visitors, offering a glimpse of authentic tribal life.

Equally captivating are Koraput’s tribal communities, whose age-old traditions, dances, and festivals offer an authentic cultural experience. To showcase this heritage, the administration is developing craft villages at Kotpad, Laxmipur and Boipariguda. The world-renowned Kotpad handloom, woven with natural dyes and tribal motifs, remains a pride of the district and a centerpiece for cultural tourism.

Adding to the appeal are the ancient temples that dot the region. The Sabara Srikhetra Jagannath Temple in Koraput, open to all irrespective of caste or creed, reflects the message of inclusivity. The sacred Gupteswar cave shrine of Lord Shiva continues to attract thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year.

Better connectivity is on the horizon. Under the Bharatmala project, a major road tunnel has already been completed in Koraput, and another is nearing completion. This will reduce travel time and make the district more accessible to visitors from within and outside Odisha.

Officials say Koraput’s rich mix of natural beauty, tribal culture, handloom excellence, and spiritual heritage make it a true tourism hub in the making. With new attractions and improved infrastructure, the district is ready to welcome more travelers and showcase the best of southern Odisha to the world.

Beyond nature and faith, Koraput also carries the grandeur of history. The Jeypore kingdom, once the stronghold of the Suryavanshi dynasty, ruled vast parts of South Odisha and left behind palaces, temples, and rich traditions. The Jeypore Palace and Sun Temple at Jeypore stand as reminders of this royal legacy, making the district not only a natural paradise but also a window into Odisha’s regal past.