Baria Pathara waterfall at Mahendragiri draws visitors from Odisha and outside

The naturally stunning Mahendragiri hills, located on the border of Gajapati and Ganjam districts, are drawing a large number of tourists, with the Baria Pathara waterfall turning into a buzzing hotspot during weekends and holidays.

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Travellers with friends and family members are arriving from distant places to experience the region’s serene greenery, cascading waters and the charm of the surrounding hills.

Located on the route to Mahendragiri, the Baria Pathara waterfall offers an inviting escape as cold water streams down rocky slopes. Thousands of tourists visit each season to bathe in the refreshing waters and enjoy the scenic environment. Young visitors say the site provides a perfect break from daily routines, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.

The waterfall also carries local cultural significance. A Barahi idol sits beside the cascade, and residents share a folklore that an ancient boar hunted by local tribes had turned into stone at the very spot, leading to the installation of the deity brought from Srikakulam. The idol is still worshipped by villagers these days.

Despite the growing tourist rush, visitors complain about the lack of basic facilities. Local leaders say several waterfalls in Patrapur block need development and that DPRs have already been submitted to the Tourism Department for upgrades.

“This site is quite clean. I enjoyed myself with my friends. But, I request the State government to develop the site and make it more attractive for visitors,” said Rahul Sethi, a tourist.

“For the development of tourism in this region, as the local legislator, I have continued my efforts. I am in touch with the PWD and Tourism departments in this regard. A DPR (Detailed Project Report) was prepared and has been submitted to the State government to develop these natural sites,” Chikiti MLA, Manoranjan Dyan Samantara, stated.

Reported By: Satyanarayan Padhi