Koraput District: The land of serene valleys and waterfalls

Visakhapatnam has plenty of tourist attractions for people to visit. Yet, the people who have lived in the city for a long time wouldn’t want to go to the same places again and again. They’d want to explore some untapped destinations. It’s no issue for them if these places are a little far away from the city. Just as long as they get to experience something different. Assuming that you have checked out all the popular places in the Araku Valley, Koraput District in Odisha should be the next thing on your travel bucket-list. For this place offers what the Araku Valley, in some ways, has lost – peace. At about 200 km from Vizag, it’s neither too far nor too crowded. While most people flock to Araku, you can check out some picturesque locations at Koraput. 

#1 Deomali

With vast green plains set over a valley, Deomali is the new to-go destination for tourists near Vizag. At an elevation of 1,672 metres, this is one of the highest peaks in the Eastern Ghats and the highest in the state of Odisha. It has only gotten popular in recent years, emerging as an ideal place for people to relax with their friends while taking amazing pictures. With refreshing weather, and nature all around, this place can be visited any time during the day. 

#2 Rani Duduma

Located on the Andhra Pradesh – Odisha Border (AOB), this place has been popularised by the waterfalls located here. Though it is not easily accessible for the people of Vizag, the scenery here is worth all the trouble. The sunrise by the waterfalls is very photogenic. The Jalaput Dam, on Machkund River, is also situated nearby.

#3 Putsil

An alternative to Deomali, Putsil is just as green and foggy. The road to Putsil is particularly scenic, twisting beautifully around the hills. It’s not just a great place for nature photographers but also bikers who wish to go on a solo trip to a majestic place. It’s the ideal spot for people seeking an ounce of peace. 

#4 Gupteswar Cave

For the ones wishing to dip into a bit of mythology, here’s a cave in Koraput District. Situated a little away from the urban areas, this cave is not for all. Only those who are fit, and brave enough, should attempt to go inside this cave. But once you get inside and crawl for about 200 steps, you come upon a Shivalinga. This Shivalinga is widely-popular as it automatically grows in size. There’s also a waterfall inside this cave that one can visit but it is much harder to reach. It is necessary for travellers to keep in mind that within this cave, oxygen supply is drastically low. 

#5 Kalya Māli

The fourth highest peak of Odisha, it offers a pristine view of the valley from its hilltop. From that point, all you see down below is vast spaces of greenery. The cloud formations above are also something to cherish. This beautiful place is not too far from Koraput town and definitely a must-visit for all hikers and camping enthusiasts. 

#6 Dudhari

While all the other hilltops are famous for the greenery and scenic views, Dudhari is where you go for some mesmerising stargazing. Visiting this place, and camping overnight, is the best way to capture some stars on your camera while enjoying a breezy night by the fire. Nearby, there are also waterfalls and streams to visit and relax. The woods of Dudhari are themselves something to admire during the day.