Paralakhemundi Off The Beaten Track In Odisha

Part of the former Ganjam district of Odisha, now included in the Gajapati district, Paralakhemundi is a former zamindari of the state with a rich historical, literary and cultural legacy. The town is the headquarters of the eponymous municipality. Paralakhemundi town is about 280km by road from state capital Bhubaneswar. However, you may visit it via Vishakhapatnam (about 170km by road) in the neighbouring state of Andhra Pradesh.

Here is a list of things to see and do here

Architectural tour

One of the striking architectural buildings here is the Maharaja&rsquos Palace, inspired by a combination of Byzantine and European styles. The sprawling white Brundaban Palace is also a popular attraction. The Jagannath temple complex is a well-known pilgrimage centre.

Nature tour

The verdant hills of Mahendragiri is about 40km from Paralakhemundi. The second highest peak of the state, it is known for its biodiversity. There are several temples here, many of which are associated with the Pandav brothers of Mahabharat. You may also go trekking in the hill albeit with a guide. For those coming through Paralakhemunid, the base village is Burukhat.

Gandahati, about 27km away by road from Paralakhemundi, is a popular waterfall. Apparently the place takes its name from the herds of elephants that lived here once. The waterfall tumbles over a broad wall in the verdant forest.

About 75km from Paralakhemundi is the Mankadadian waterfall. The waterfall drops from a height to collect in a tranquil pool before flowing out further. This is a popular picnic spot in winter.

Handicrafts tour

Paralakhemundi is known for artefacts made from horns of cattle. Initially, the artists used to make figures of birds with the horns. But gradually they began making animal shapes, human figures, etc. There many showrooms along the Palace Road which offer a range of products. Another craft which is unique to this region is known as Jae Khadi. These are mostly household products, such as bags, made from &lsquojae&rsquo, a kind of plant found here the sticks from the plant are used to make the products.

The best time to visit Paralakhemundi is in winter.