If one’s desire is to marvel at the awesome power of nature, Koraput is the place to be. The district’s main claims to fame are enchanting hills, verdant forests, winding streams and exotic wildlife and a rich tribal way of life. The commercial nerve centre of Koraput district, Jeypore is bounded by hills of the Eastern Ghats and Araku hills on three sides and has also an impressive collection of architectural sights. Untainted by commercial tourist development, Koraput is a tourist’s destination for solitude seekers, wildlife lovers and history buffs. Jeypore is the convenient base for exploring the places of interest in and around. The district of Koraput derives its name from its headquarters the present town of Koraput. In ancient times when the Nalas were ruling over this tract, Pushkari near modern Umarkot was the capital city. In the medieval period Nandapur developed as the capital under the Silavamsi kings and sometimes under the kings of the Solaar dynasty. Vikram Dev of the Solaar dynasty shifted his headquarters to Jeypore about the middle of the 17th century and this town prospered as the capital. Koraput was chosen by the British in 1870 for better health prospects.
Tourist Attractions In Koraput : 11
By Air - The Visakhapatnam is the closest airport to Koraput, which is at a distance of 133 kms.
By Train - Koraput has its own junction named as Koraput Railway station that connects it to nearby foremost places.
By Bus - OSRTC buses are regularly plied from all parts of Orissa state to access the Koraput.
By Road - Koraput has good connectivity with other parts of the state as well as some major cities of neighbouring states, by means of road network. NH 43 passes through Koraput.
Here are some famous traditional dishes and places to eat in Koraput:
Mandia Peja:
Specialty: Finger Millet Porridge.
Location: Local eateries and village markets.
Mandia Peja is a healthy and traditional staple in the region, made from finger millet. It's a must-try dish, particularly loved by the locals for its earthy flavor.
Chitau Pitha:
Specialty: Rice Pancake.
Location: Local stalls across Koraput.
Chitau Pitha, a soft rice pancake, is a traditional Odia dish enjoyed during festivals. It's served with jaggery or coconut milk, making for a delightful and authentic snack.
Dahi Baigana:
Specialty: Eggplant in Curd Gravy.
Location: Tribal food joints and small eateries.
A local delicacy, Dahi Baigana is a yogurt-based dish with eggplant. The balance of tangy and savory flavors makes it a unique experience.
Machha Besara:
Specialty: Fish Curry in Mustard Paste.
Location: Roadside eateries and family restaurants.
This fish curry, made with mustard and local spices, is a popular dish in Koraput. The freshness of the fish combined with the strong flavor of mustard creates an authentic regional taste.
Mudhi Mansa:
Specialty: Puffed Rice with Mutton Curry.
Location: Local eateries.
A popular tribal dish, Mudhi Mansa pairs puffed rice with spicy mutton curry, offering a flavorful and filling meal. It’s a must-try for meat lovers.
Kangu Peja:
Specialty: Foxtail Millet Porridge.
Location: Tribal markets and eateries.
Kangu Peja is a wholesome porridge made from foxtail millet, commonly eaten by the locals. It's a healthy and nutritious option that reflects the agricultural roots of Koraput.
Enduri Pitha:
Specialty: Steamed Rice Cake with Coconut and Jaggery.
Location: Local sweet shops and festivals.
Enduri Pitha is a delicious steamed cake with a filling of coconut and jaggery, typically made during festivals. Its subtle sweetness and soft texture make it a local favorite.
Pakhala Bhata:
Specialty: Fermented Rice.
Location: Local restaurants and homes.
Pakhala Bhata is a refreshing dish made from fermented rice, often eaten with fried vegetables or fish. It’s a great way to cool down and enjoy the simple, rustic flavors of the region.
Sana Khechudi:
Specialty: Khichdi (Rice and Lentil Dish).
Location: Temples and traditional eateries.
Sana Khechudi, a light yet flavorful rice and lentil dish, is often served as prasad in temples. Its simplicity and taste make it a comforting dish to try.
Poda Pitha:
Specialty: Baked Rice Cake.
Location: Sweet shops and local festivals.
Poda Pitha is a slow-cooked rice cake, baked to perfection, often enjoyed during the Raja festival. It has a rich taste, with hints of coconut and jaggery, and is a must-have dessert in Koraput.
When in Koraput, explore these authentic dishes and savor the diverse and traditional flavors of the region's tribal cuisine.
In the gentle folds of time's embrace, where ancient traditions whisper through the windswept hills, Koraput, a mystical land of natural beauty and tribal heritage, calls to the curious soul, weaving stories of culture, wilderness, and timeless tranquility.
Koraput enjoys a pleasant climate from October to March.
The ideal time to explore Koraput is 2-3 days.
Koraput is surrounded by many nearby tourist destinations like Araku Valley (96 km), Jeypore (22 km), Duduma Waterfalls (70 km), and more, offering a rich tapestry of natural and cultural wonders.
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Updated 28 Nov 2019