Koraput, tucked into the hills of southern Odisha, is a lesser-visited district known for its tribal culture, coffee plantations, and landscapes that feel far removed from typical tourist circuits — which is exactly its appeal.
Getting there
Koraput has its own railway station, connected to Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar, making it reachable without needing to fly.
Highlights
- Deomali — the highest peak in Odisha, with sweeping views over the surrounding valleys
- Duduma Waterfalls — a dramatic waterfall on the Machkund River, on the border with Andhra Pradesh
- Koraput’s coffee plantations — one of the few coffee-growing regions in eastern India, run largely through tribal cooperatives
- Local tribal markets (haats) — weekly markets that offer a genuine look at the region’s indigenous communities and their crafts
- Jagannath Temple, Koraput — a regional temple with its own distinct local character
Where to eat
Look for local Odia tribal cuisine — simple, millet- and rice-based meals, often paired with regionally grown vegetables.
Practical tips
- Infrastructure is more basic than in bigger tourist towns — plan for fewer amenities and slower travel
- Hiring a local guide is genuinely useful here since English/Hindi signage is limited