
Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Raurkela, Odisha, India
1. Simlipal National Park
Explore the diverse flora and fauna in one of India's largest national parks, featuring the majestic elephant, leopard, and gaur.
- Wildlife Diversity: Home to a rich variety of wildlife species including Asian elephants, tigers, and over 300 bird species.
- Eco-Tourism: Sustainable tourism practices ensure minimal impact on the ecosystem while promoting conservation efforts.
- Hiking Trails: Offers a network of well-marked trails catering to hikers of all levels.
2. Mahanadi Wildlife Sanctuary
Discover the unique biodiversity along the Mahanadi River, home to the endangered Gharial crocodiles and Indian Pied Hornbill.
- Unique Fauna: Provides an opportunity to see rare and endangered species like the Gharial crocodile and Sloth Bear.
- Riverine Habitat: Offers a unique riverine habitat experience that is not found in other hiking destinations.
- Community-Based Tourism: Supports local communities by promoting eco-tourism and creating economic opportunities.
3. Kuldi Rani Falls Trail
Experience the breathtaking Kuldi Rani Falls, nestled amidst lush greenery and offering a refreshing dip in natural pools.
- Waterfalls: Features the picturesque Kuldi Rani Falls, perfect for swimming and photography.
- Lush Greenery: Surrounded by dense forests, offering a serene and rejuvenating hiking experience.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Less crowded than other popular destinations, providing an authentic and untouched hiking trail.
4. Ghatgaon Hill Trail
Climb Ghatgaon Hill for panoramic views of the cityscape and surrounding hills, and explore ancient temples along the way.
- City Views: Offers breathtaking views of Raurkela's cityscape and the surrounding hill ranges.
- Ancient Temples: Features several ancient temples that offer insights into local history and culture.
- Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels, featuring gradual inclines and well-marked paths.
5. Khandadhar Falls Trail
Hike to the breathtaking Khandadhar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India, surrounded by lush forests and scenic vistas.
- Tall Waterfall: Showcases the impressive Khandadhar Falls, standing at over 249 meters tall.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning views of the surrounding forests and valleys.
- Adventure Activities: Offers adventure activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining for thrill-seekers.
6. Pipiliha Falls Trail
Embark on a scenic hike to the serene Pipiliha Falls, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and lush greenery.
- Cascading Waterfalls: Features multiple smaller waterfalls along the trail, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting.
- Lush Greenery: Surrounded by dense forests, offering a serene and rejuvenating hiking experience.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Less crowded than other popular destinations, providing an authentic and untouched hiking trail.
7. Gopalpur Hill Trail
Hike to the summit of Gopalpur Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and ancient temples.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and distant hills.
- Ancient Temples: Features several ancient temples that offer insights into local history and culture.
- Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels, featuring gradual inclines and well-marked paths.
8. Katapali Hill Trail
Traverse the rugged terrain of Katapali Hill for panoramic views of the city and a chance to spot rare bird species.
- City Views: Offers breathtaking views of Raurkela's cityscape and the surrounding hill ranges.
- Rare Bird Species: Home to various rare and endemic bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
- Strenuous Difficulty: Suitable for experienced hikers due to its challenging terrain and steep inclines.
9. Joranda Hills Trail
Discover the scenic beauty of Joranda Hills, featuring ancient temples, lush forests, and panoramic views.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside and distant hills.
- Ancient Temples: Features several ancient temples that offer insights into local history and culture.
- Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels, featuring gradual inclines and well-marked paths.
10. Dholuguma Hill Trail
Hike to the summit of Dholuguma Hill for panoramic views of the city and explore ancient caves along the way.
- City Views: Offers breathtaking views of Raurkela's cityscape and the surrounding hill ranges.
- Ancient Caves: Features ancient caves with rock paintings, providing insights into local history and culture.
- Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels, featuring gradual inclines and well-marked paths.
11. Kantabanjhi Hill Trail
Climb Kantabanjhi Hill for panoramic views of the city and explore ancient temples nestled among the hills.
- City Views: Offers breathtaking views of Raurkela's cityscape and the surrounding hill ranges.
- Ancient Temples: Features several ancient temples that offer insights into local history and culture.
- Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels, featuring gradual inclines and well-marked paths.
12. Ushakali Hill Trail
Traverse the rugged terrain of Ushakali Hill for panoramic views of the city and explore ancient temples along the way.
- City Views: Offers breathtaking views of Raurkela's cityscape and the surrounding hill ranges.
- Ancient Temples: Features several ancient temples that offer insights into local history and culture.
- Strenuous Difficulty: Suitable for experienced hikers due to its challenging terrain and steep inclines.
13. Kotia Hill Trail
Hike to the summit of Kotia Hill for panoramic views of the city and explore ancient temples nestled among the hills.
- City Views: Offers breathtaking views of Raurkela's cityscape and the surrounding hill ranges.
- Ancient Temples: Features several ancient temples that offer insights into local history and culture.
- Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels, featuring gradual inclines and well-marked paths.
14. Balimela Dam Trail
Explore the scenic beauty of Balimela Dam, featuring panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding forests.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning views of the Balimela Reservoir and surrounding forests.
- Wildlife Spotting: Offers opportunities to spot various wildlife species, including crocodiles and birds.
- Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels, featuring gradual inclines and well-marked paths.
15. Barapani Trail
Traverse the beautiful Barapani area for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a chance to spot rare bird species.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside and distant hills.
- Rare Bird Species: Home to various rare and endemic bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
- Strenuous Difficulty: Suitable for experienced hikers due to its challenging terrain and steep inclines.