Discover Gajapati: Mahendragiri, Waterfalls and Jirang

Gajapati can be explored through a range of natural and cultural themes. Mahendragiri offers a clearly defined mountain destination, while the waterfalls and Jirang Monastery add other places and historical themes. When planning your trip around your interests, you can consider landscapes, monastery history and historic architecture as distinct focuses.

Mountain Landscapes and Waterfalls

Mahendragiri is a mountain in the Rayagada block of Gajapati district in Odisha, India. It lies in the Eastern Ghats and reaches an elevation of 1,501 metres. This elevation gives the mountain a specific place in the destination’s landscape. Those interested in mountain regions will find a clearly identified starting point here that can also be located geographically: in the Rayagada block, in Gajapati district and in the Eastern Ghats.

The waterfalls can also be distinguished by their respective locations. Gandahati Waterfalls are in the Rayagada block of Gajapati district. Khasada Waterfall is near the town of Chandragiri, also in Gajapati district. The names therefore point not only to different natural attractions, but also to two distinct geographical locations within the district.

Jirang: Monastery History and Cultural Sites

Padmasambhava Monastery, commonly known as Jirang Monastery, is in Jeerango in Gajapati district and is the largest monastery in eastern India. The Dalai Lama inaugurated it in 2010. The two names help with orientation: Padmasambhava Monastery is the formal name, while Jirang Monastery is the name by which it is commonly known. Together with the year of its inauguration, the monastery offers a concrete entry point into the destination’s cultural history.

Chandragiri is also part of this history: the site was designated Camp No. 4 for the settlement of Tibetans. A peace pagoda stands at the entrance to Camp No. 4 in the Jirang area. In the same area, the seated Avalokiteswara statue in Mahedragad is another attraction. These distinct points of interest give culture-minded travellers additional names and themes to consider when finding their way around the Jirang area.

Another historic site is Brundaban Palace, now called B N Palace. It was built on the Mahendratanaya River and is considered an example of India’s rich cultural heritage and finely crafted art of ancient times. Its changing name and riverside location help place the palace as a distinct part of Gajapati’s cultural history.

Orissa: Further Cultural and Landscape Perspectives

At a broader level, Orissa offers further themes beyond the attractions in Gajapati. These include the history of Odissi: the dance form evolved from the centuries-old Mahari tradition, performed by Devadasi dancers at the Jagannath Temple in Puri. It later developed into Odissi, Odisha’s classical dance form. Those interested in dance and cultural history will find a distinct regional point of reference here.

Similipal also offers a distinctive nature experience in Orissa. The tiger reserve is in Mayurbhanj district in northern Odisha and covers 2,750 square kilometres. The Baheripani and Joranda waterfalls plunge approximately 400 and 150 metres, respectively. Jungle safaris, guided hikes and birdwatching are listed among the most recommended activities. Check access and operating conditions before travelling.

Orissa’s cuisine offers further insight into regional traditions. Mahaprasad is the offering to Lord Jagannath in Puri and is prepared in stacked earthen pots over a fire; the topmost pot cooks first. Pakhala is fermented rice prepared overnight with water and eaten with fried vegetables and fish. In Odisha, it is considered a typical summer dish. These different ways of preparing food show how strongly regional cuisine is shaped by its traditions.

Discover more destinations: Mohana, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Khordha, Gopalpur, Puri, Kalahandi, Sundargarh.

For the broader travel overview: Orissa.