Orissa Tourism, Tours, Travels, Tourist destination

3Destination to Dhenkanal4

It is the gateway to one of the most ancient forest covers of Orissa which shelters the elephants, tigers and numerous species of birds and beasts. The broad plains of the river Bramhani were the dwelling place of early homo-sapiens who lived on the berries and wild fruits before the advent of rice on these heavily watered expanses.

The surrounding Sal forests come ablaze with the changing seasons making this district headquarters town focal point of trips to beautiful interiors. Close by is the industrial town of Angul which has the smelter plant of one of the worlds largest producers of Aluminum - NALCO.

How to get there: Ideally located on the National Highway No. 42, Dhenkanal has direct road connections to major towns of the State. 100 km from Bhubaneswar, the State Capital, it is a railhead on the S.E. Railway.

Where to stay: Hotel and lodges are available in Dhenkanal town.

Places around Dhenkanal
Kapilas (16 km)*	The loftiest peak of range enshrines the temple of Lord Shiva 'Chandrasekhar' at a height of about 457 mtrs. approachable by a flight of 1351 steps and a ghat road. Identified with "Kailas', the legendary abode of Lord Shiva, the hill has several caves, shrines and the ruins of a medieval fort which are regularly visited by pilgrims. The Deer park and Science Park are other attraction of the place.
Tikarpada (120 km)*	The tiny village of Tikarpada (120 km from Dhenkanal and 58 km from anugul) has one of the splendid setting in the world. It offers some of the most exciting visuals of the satkosia gorge, India's mightiest gorge, into which the turbulent Mahanadi river crashes with amazing ferocity through 22 km of emerlad forests, that seem to change their hues with every bend of the river's meanderings. Apart from offering gorgeous views from the pinncles of the surrounding hills, there is an excellent potential for angling, boating and trekking around these parts.
Saptasajya (11 km)*	Located 11 km out of Dhenkanal, is said to act as host to the Pandavas during their Agnyayvas days in these hills. The place, eith its beautiful surrounding, is popular with holidays makers. It is also favourite pilgrimage spot with the temples of Saptarshi and Raghunath reigning supreme during Ramanavami festival.

* Indicates Distance from Dhenkanal