Atri of Odisha is a well-known tourist spot, ranking among the top destinations. But do you know the actual reason behind Atri odisha being so popular ? The actual reason is the presence of hot springs with Sulphur rich water.
It is estimated that the constant temperature of Atri is about 50-57°C Or 130-135°F, which is definitely a much higher temperature than usual. There are a lot of speculations about why Atri experiences such high temperatures.
Why is Atri Odisha called the Hot Spring of India?
- It is observed that the tectonic friction created in the Earth’s crust and the radiogenic heat being generated from it are the main reasons for the hotness spread throughout Baghamari atri.
- Another reason why Atri baghamari is a hot spring is because of the presence of Sulphur in the waters. There is a presence of a very high percentage of Sulphur in the waters of Atri, which eventually keeps the water heated to a very great extent internally, for a much longer time.
- A cultural and spiritual reason for Atri having a hot spring is due to the collaboration of a huge geothermal occurrence with the presence of the Hatakeswar Mahadev temple. This combination is believed to be the merger of medical healing (called Chikitsa) and spirituality (called Adhyatma).
Consequences of Atri Odisha being the Hot Spring of India
- Chloroflexi and Proteobacteria Microbes Live in Atri’s Water:
It is observed through various research experiments of scientists that Atri odisha consists of microbes such as Proteobacteria and Chloroflexi. These are the only microorganisms which were able to survive in the extreme heat of this place.
Proteobacteria and Chloroflexi didn’t only survive, but their generations have now adapted with the weather conditions of Atri baghamari now.
- Atri has become an Open Laboratory:
Due to its unusual temperature and proven survival of various species, the Atri hot spring has become an open laboratory for scientists to carry out their experiments.
The temperature, habitat, and lifestyle of animals in Atri is regularly studied by geological scientists & it has therefore turned into a critical research hub.
Conclusion
As the water of Baghamari atri flows down the runoff channels, it gradually starts to cool down bit by bit. In this process, the water slowly becomes an adaptable habitat for aquatic animals such as temple fishes and other local fishes.
Therefore, Atri hot spring is living evidence that nothing remains the same and at the right time, even the hottest spring of India can cool down & find stability. So, visiting this beautiful place once and experiencing the beauty of it with your own eyes is a must for explorers and nature enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit
October to February is considered the best time to visit Atri hot spring.
Nearest Bus Stop
Baghamari is a place that comes on Nayagarh route and is the nearest bus stop which is 2 kms away from Atri. However Khordha bus stop is the more convenient one for frequent connectivity.
Nearest Railway Station
Khordha Junction railway station is the nearest one which is situated about 17 kms away.
