TV
Tucked deep within India's eastern hinterland, the geographical tri-junction where Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh converge. This unique point lies near the Sileru Dam, at the confluence of the Sileru and Sabari rivers, forming a natural boundary.
Notably, the actual meeting point of the three states lies within the river itself, making it a rare geographical landmark.
Bordering this tri-junction are Motu (Odisha), Konta (Chhattisgarh), and Kalleru (Andhra Pradesh), each contributing to the area's cultural and ecological fabric.
The Sileru River: Lifeline and Landscape
The Sileru River, a key tributary of the Godavari, originates in Andhra Pradesh and winds its way through rugged hills and tropical forests.
As it delineates state boundaries, it supports vital hydroelectric projects such as the Upper Sileru, Donkarayi, and Balimela dams. These sites not only generate substantial electricity for Andhra Pradesh and Odisha but also form serene reservoirs that are ideal for eco-tourism, bird watching, and monsoon getaways.
Tribal Heritage and Cultural Encounters
This confluence area is home to indigenous tribes such as the Koya, Gadaba, and Paraja, each with distinct languages, rituals, and traditions. Visitors can engage in guided cultural interactions, handicraft showcases, and local cuisine experiences.
As cultural tourism grows, local communities are beginning to benefit through homestay initiatives and craft-based cooperatives.
ALSO READ: Odisha’s newest and largest national park is also its biggest tiger reserve; know unique details
Not Yet a Tourist Destination
Despite its natural beauty and cultural richness, the Sileru tri-junction is not yet a formal tourist destination. The region is affected by Maoist insurgency, especially in forested pockets near the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border.
Security concerns have hindered the development of large-scale tourism infrastructure, and movement in some areas is restricted.
Authorities in all three states are actively engaged in anti-Naxal operations, with infrastructure and road connectivity projects underway to improve conditions. As peace and stability gradually return, state tourism departments are considering ways to develop the area as a future eco-tourism hotspot.
ALSO READ: Maoist hideout busted in Odisha’s Boudh; several explosives, contrabands seized
A Region with Future Promise
The tri-junction currently offers promise more than presence. With increasing coordination between states and ongoing efforts to combat extremism, this frontier may one day find a place on India’s eco-tourism map. Until then, it remains a rare and hidden geographic marvel—where rivers meet, borders blend, and traditions quietly endure.
