Odisha’s Hidden Paradise: Sarafgarh and Kanakunda Tour

For some, the Puja holiday means hanging out at home and feasting, while for others, it means getting away from your busy life and exploring a new destination. But if you can’t get a train or plane ticket? No problem, set off on your own four-wheeler. And now, go on a trip to the completely unknown yet picturesque places of Odisha, Sarafgarh and Kanakunda. On the way, if you stay overnight at the literary-famous Ghatshila, the trip will be even more exciting.

Ghatshila, a meeting of literature and nature

The distance from Kolkata to Ghatshila is about 241 km. The name of this place, which sits on the banks of the Subarnarekha River, has repeatedly appeared in the writings of Bibhutibhushan Banerjee. After visiting the sparkling resorts, Bibhutibhushan’s house, Ratmohana, Burudi and Galudi lakes, you can understand why this place attracts travel lovers so much.

Sarafgarh, the abode of mountains and forests

A drive of about 9 hours from Ghatshila will take you to Sarafgarh in Sundargarh district. This small destination surrounded by mountains and forests has reservoirs, waterfalls and a serene environment. Spending the night at the Odisha government’s nature camp will be a great experience. Although there is a crowd of picnickers in winter, Sarafgarh is quiet, secluded and relaxing the rest of the time.

You can visit here —

• Sarafgarh reservoir
• Crowded waterfalls
• Mountain-surrounded park, floating jetty and boating arrangements

Kanakunda, the shadow of the Grand Canyon

Kanakunda is just 50 kilometers away from Sarafgarh. Here, a magnificent gorge has been created by the erosion of the Ibi River. Many compare the strange landforms created by the combination of hard and soft rocks with the Grand Canyon. The appearance is not clear due to the high water level of the river during the monsoon, but you will be fascinated in the winter.

The rocks are so smooth that it looks as if someone made them with wax. But be careful – there is a risk of slipping if you are not careful. You can visit the Shukha Mahadev temple nearby, where it is not so crowded.

Read more :- 7 Easiest Foreign Travel Destinations From India For A Long Weekend

Return route

If you want to visit Sarafgarh- Kanakunda, you can return via Jamshedpur. The way back to Kolkata will be more enjoyable after visiting Dalma Hills, Dam and Park.

Travel tips

• Kolkata to Ghatshila – 4-5 hours by car
• Kolkata to Sarafgarh – About 10-12 hours drive
• Accommodation – Hotels in Ghatshila and Jamshedpur, Nature Camp in Sarafgarh

If you are a nature lover, this tour will not disappoint you. Mountains, rivers, forests and artificially created gorges – all together, Sarafgarh and Kanakunda will be the best pages of your travel diary.