keonjhar

Location: 227-km from Bhubaneswar, Orissa
Main Attractions: Vishnu Temple, Jagannath Temple, and Siddha Kali & Panchabati
Famous As: Picnic Spot
Excursions: Sitabinji, Khandadhar, Gonasika & Ghatgaon
The district headquarters town, Keonjhar is the gateway to one of the most scenic destinations in India. Worth seeing here are the Vishnu and Jagannath temples, as are the Siddha Kali and Panchabati shrines. Sanghagara waterfall (30.5m) and Badghagara waterfall (61m) are close to this town. The exciting environment of Badghagara has made it a popular picnic spot of the state.
The rich mineral deposits have been a blessing to Keonjhar in many ways. Natural landscapes and exuberant waterfalls cascading down forest-clad hillsides make up just a few of the district's wondrous attractions. Terraced valleys and forested land provide shelter to the tribal folk who give the visitors a glimpse of Orissa's rich past in their simple lifestyles and exotic festivities.

Sitabinji: 30-km from Keonjhar, on river Sita, Sitabinji is a place having ancient fresco paintings on a rock shelter called 'Ravan Chhaya'.

Khandadhar: Famous for the waterfall of 152m high amidst lush green forests, it lies 60-km from Keonjhar and is an ideal place for picnic.

Gonasika: Surrounded by a series of valleys and wooded hills of varying colours, the place is famous for the origin of river Vaitarani as well as a center of pilgrimage for the temple of 'Brahmeswar Mahadev'. A little away from the point of its origin, the river goes under ground, and seen after jumping a short distance over a stone projection looking like the nostril of a cow. It lies 45-km from Keonjhar.

Ghatgaon: About 50-km from Keonjhar towards Cuttack Goddess Tarini holds sway over her devotees from her beautiful shrine.

HOW TO GET THERE

Air: The nearest airport is situated at Bhubaneswar.

Rail: The nearest railhead is J.K. Road - 114 km.

Road: Keonjhar is linked with Calcutta, Bhubaneswar (227-km), Ranchi, Tata and important places of the State by regular bus services.

Nearby Cities