On leaving Bonai the open area around Khandadhar waterfall opens, first through dense woods and then finally at the foot of the main waterfall you discover a deep, rocky-walled pool. A truly beautiful and tranquil location where you can sit peacefully with no sound of running water, as the river passes through this pool on its journey southward to the valley beyond. This pool is part of the vast Sundargarh District and is said by locals to be used by Mt. Oludhi for drinking water to keep the surrounding forests lush and thriving. Do NOT swim in the middle of this pool, it’s believed that there is no bottom; according to my visit in Nov 2024, the temperature was cold and the mist from the waterfall had coated everything, I could feel as if the mountain was breathing directly onto me.
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ToggleThe Khandadhar Waterfall has a wild geography. It drops approximately 244 meters and looks like a horse’s tail made of pure liquid white light. The Khandahar Waterfall is one of our state’s tallest waterfalls. The climb to the base of the Khandadhar Waterfall is a difficult hike over many black rocks that have been polished for a thousand years by the water. The rocks can be slippery and covered with water from the spray, therefore making everything very wet. However, once you are there, the sounds of the Khandadhar Waterfall will consume all of your concerns. The Khandadhar waterfall distance from Rourkela is approximately 100 km. It seems like quite a long drive to take; however, the drive through the trees on the forest road is beautiful.
This area has a rich tribal culture, and the tribes here treat the hills with a quiet, steady respect. They do not cut the trees down, they do not shout around the water or treat the forest as a living temple. Many have come to visit this area for the purpose of looking for the best places to visit in Rourkela and there abouts. Sundargarh tourist place is the best of the best, therefore a great destination for the perfect picnic spot near Rourkela to have some time away from the noise of the city. If you would like to stay, there are basic accommodations available at Khandadhar Nature Camp, which is a simple and inexpensive way to spend some time in the center of wildlife.
If you want to view the waterfall when it is at its peak, visit between November and February. The water is gentle during this period, and the weather is ideal for hiking. During the wet season, the amount of water flowing down the mountain makes the hiking paths unsafe. Make sure to wear shoes that have rubber soles. Don’t wear flip-flops! My recommendation is to also take a small backpack with some water and dry snacks from the market at Bonai. There are very few stores at the base of the waterfall. If possible, combine other places to see in Rourkela with your visit to the waterfall; this will help you maximize your time for the weekend. When hiking up to the waterfall, be patient. Don’t rush up the trail. Enjoy the sounds of nature; nature has been around longer than either of us!
