Visitors to the western part of Odisha will now be able to enjoy a boat cruise in the reservoir of the famous Hirakud Dam. According to reports, the cruises will begin from August.

Often claimed to be the world&rsquos largest earthen dam, the Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River is about 15km north of Sambalpur town.

On April 1 this year, water sports on the right dyke of Hirakud Dam near Jhankarani temple in Burla was inaugurated. Jet ski, speed boats, water scooter, bumper boat, banana boat, kayak and paddle boat rides were being offered at the reservoir between 8am and pm for payments ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 1500, according to reports. However, everything was put on hold owing to the pandemic restrictions.

The state government is also planning to set up cottages and other tourist facilities on an island in the reservoir, the local media quoted Asit Tripathy, chairman of Western Odisha Development Corporation, as saying.

Tourists can combine a visit to the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located on the right bank of the dam, and has a nature camp operated by the Odisha Forest Development Corporation.

Note Before planning your trip to Odisha, check for the latest COVID protocols with the state tourism department.