Mahendragiri is a mountain in Rayagada block of the district of Gajapati ,odisha. It is a prominent hill station in the Gajapati district of Odisha ,situated within the Eastern ghats mountain range, near the border with Andhra Pradesh. Mahendragiri is known for its biodiversity ,ancient temples and spiritual significance as the abode of lord parashurama. It is located in the eastern ghats of Odisha state and is 40 Km distance from Paralakehemundi and 85 km from Berhampur town.
Mahendragri in Odisha is famous for its spiritual and religious significance, biodiversity and natural beauty. It is considered inviolate in hinduism ,with parable trying to the lord parashurama and being mentioned in the Ramayana. It is also a momentous and biodiversity hot spot in the eastern ghats ,known for its dense forest ,medicinal plants and diverse fauna.
Which is the nearest hill station to Mahendragiri?
Mahendragiri hills are located in the Gajapati district of Odisha, India, forming part of the eastern Ghats mountain range ,known for its rich biodiversity ,tribal population ,ancient temples and as a significant ecological and spiritual site. Some of the popular hill stations in Odisha include Daringbadi, known as the ‘’kashmir of Odisha,’’the second highest peak Deomali mountains and the scenic Taptapani, which features hot springs. Some of the other hill stations near to Mahendragri are:
Daringbadi:
It is also known as ‘’kashmir of Odisha ,which offers disorienting views as well as a good spot for certain activities such as mountaineering and hang gliding.
Malayagiri Hills:
It is the third-heighest peak in the state, it is a great destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts.
Chandragiri:
Chandragiri is a hub of Tibetan culture ,featuring several Buddhist monasteries and is democratic for its trekking trails.
Taptapani:
Tapatapani is famous for its natural beauty and as the only place in the state to have recorded snowfall in winter.
Is Mahendragiri the highest peak?
Mahendragri peak is a significant mountain in the eastern Ghats ,primarily known for its location in the Gajapati district of Odisha , standing at about 1,501 meters, known for its mythological ties to Ramayana and Mahabharata , and rich biodiversity. It is Odisha’s second-highest peak after Deomali ,though other Mahendragri exist in Tamil Nadu near ISRO facilities. Mahendragiri is often cited as one of the highest points known for its rich biodiversity and mythological importance . It is located in the Gajapati district and is part of the eastern ghats mountain range.
What are the rituals and festivals celebrated in Mahendragri?
Mahendragri in Odisha is a sacred place known for its deep connection to Hindu epics. Lord Parashurama, an incarnation of Vishnu, is believed to reside here, adding to its spiritual importance. Some of the major festivals as well as rituals celebrated in Mahendagri are as follows:
- Maha Shivarartri: The most significant event ,celebrated a day before national date. Devotees trek up the hill overnight to offer prayers at the Gokarneswar temple at sunrise ,a ritual linked to the pandavas’ departure.
- Vaishnavite offerings: while less documented on the peak itself, the region honors Byanjan Dwadashi ,a festival of celebrated foods offerings to Krishna ,showing broader regional devotion.
What are Mahendragiri hills famous for?
Mahendragiri hills are famous for their spiritual and religious significance , biodiversity and natural beauty. It is also an important biodiversity hotspot in the eastern Ghats , known for its dense forests ,medicinal plants and diverse fauna. It is a beautiful place in the midst of cloud covered hills . The common misconception of the people is that it is a picnic spot, which is not true ,rather it is considered as a religious site. One can find temples built by the pandavas on the top of the hill.
These hills are ones which are often mentioned in the poetry of Kalidasa and Sarala Das other than its mention in archeological works. It is a beautiful hill covered with dense green forest and wildlife. It is a place of natural beauty ,spiritual significance and ecological importance making it a unique destination for both pilgrims as well as nature lovers.
Conclusion:
Mahendragri hills are a vital eastern Ghats location, renowned for immense biodiversity and deep cultural to Ramayana/mahabharta. The place has a rich in economic flora and fauna. It is linked to epics and ancient temples ,attracting pilgrims. The place also represents a cultural nexus of ecological, cultural and spiritual value in Odisha currently caught between rapid development and urgent conservation needs.
Best Time to Visit
October to February is considered as the best time to visit Mahendragiri hills as the temperature is pleasant during this time.
Nearest Bus stop
Paralakhemundi bus stop in Gajapati district is the nearest bus stop to Mahendragiri hills which is situated around 51kms away.
Nearest railway station
Paralakhemundi station is the nearest railway station which is 53kms away from Mahendragiri hills. Palasa is also another station from where it is easily accessable.
