Things To Do
in Sundargarh
Sundargarh is a district located in the state of Odisha, India, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The region is home to several tribal communities, each with unique traditions and art forms. Sundargarh is famous for its traditional music, dance, and handicrafts, showcasing the vibrant cultural diversity of the area.
The district is also known for its lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Kacharya Lake where you can enjoy a peaceful sunrise. Engage with local fishermen to experience their traditional fishing methods.
After lunch, visit the famous Hirakud Dam, one of the longest earthen dams in the world. Enjoy the scenic views and learn about the engineering marvel from local guides.
In the evening, head to a local market for some shopping and tasting street food. Don't miss trying the local favorite, pakhala.
Kickstart your day with a trek to the stunning Ghatkuri Hills. The lush greenery and scenic views will invigorate your spirits.
Post-trek, relax at a nearby café and enjoy some refreshing drinks and light snacks. Use this time to chat with fellow travelers and locals.
As the sun sets, return to Sundargarh town for a leisurely stroll. Experience the vibrant evening atmosphere in the markets filled with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich in natural beauty, surrounded by hills and forests.
- Culturally diverse with various festivals celebrated throughout the year.
- Abundant mineral resources and potential for industrial development.
- Agricultural opportunities due to fertile land.
- Strong sense of community and hospitality among locals.
- Limited infrastructure and connectivity compared to urban areas.
- Challenges with healthcare and educational facilities.
- Economic opportunities may be less compared to larger cities.
- Occasional issues with water supply and sanitation.
- Environmental concerns related to mining activities.
Best Activities in Sundargarh
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush greenery, colorful flowers, and serene environment in this beautiful botanical garden.
Embark on a thrilling trek to witness the majestic Khandadhar Falls and indulge in nature photography.
Engage in activities like river rafting, kayaking, and camping amidst the scenic beauty of Vedvyas.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sundargarh with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sundargarh
Visit one of these nice places.
Mandira Dam offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and the reservoir, making it an ideal spot for photography and sightseeing.
Khandadhar Waterfall is a picturesque natural attraction that provides stunning photo opportunities and breathtaking views of the cascading waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
The viewpoint near Rourkela Steel Plant provides panoramic views of the industrial complex and the city skyline, offering unique photography opportunities.
Food in Sundargarh
Sundargarh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular sweet dish made from rice flour, jaggery, and grated coconut. It is traditionally enjoyed during festivals and special occasions. The best place to find Arisa Pitha is at local sweet shops and during traditional events.
Must-Try!
A delicious seafood curry made with prawns, cooked in a flavorful gravy of onions, garlic, and spices. It is a staple in many local households and can be savored at seafood specialty eateries.
Sarapulli is a savory pancake-like dish made from lentils, colacasia leaves, and various spices. It is often enjoyed with a side of tangy tamarind chutney at local eateries and food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sundargarh better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of street food stalls offering an array of delectable treats such as chaats, samosas, and various snacks. It's a great place to experience the local street food scene.
Along Panposh Road, you'll find a vibrant collection of food stalls serving a variety of local and fusion street food including kebabs, momos, and regional snacks, providing a true taste of Sundargarh's culinary diversity.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sundargarh, it is important to show respect to elders by touching their feet as a sign of reverence.
When visiting religious places or attending cultural events, it is respectful to wear traditional attire like a saree for women and dhoti-kurta for men.
When dining with locals, it is customary to wash your hands before and after the meal as cutlery may not always be used. Also, it is polite to accept food offerings with your right hand.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sundargarh with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sundargarh
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sundargarh, India, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. If a service charge is not included, a small tip of 5-10% of the total bill amount is appreciated.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Sundargarh, India. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments, but it's always good to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sundargarh.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and dry weather, suitable for outdoor activities but can be quite hot
Heavy rainfall, lush greenery, and occasional flooding; may not be the best time for outdoor activities
Pleasant weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures; ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities
Cool and dry weather, perfect for exploring the region and enjoying outdoor adventures
Sundargarh at Night
Hiking in Sundargarh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, Khandadhar offers scenic views and hiking trails. It is located in the Sundargarh district and is popular among nature lovers.
This hill provides a nice hiking challenge and rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding area. It is a less crowded spot, ideal for those seeking a peaceful experience.
Known for its rich biodiversity, Gulunda Hill offers various trails for hikers. It's a great spot for bird watching and experiencing the local flora and fauna.
A forest area with multiple trails, Deragada is perfect for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region. It also provides opportunities to spot wildlife.
Located near the town of Sundargarh, Sikri Hills is known for its hiking paths that wind through dense forests and lead to stunning viewpoints.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sundargarh through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sundargarh by plane.
The nearest major airport located in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, approximately 250 km from Sundargarh.
Located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, around 260 km from Sundargarh, this is one of the major international airports in the region.
Situated in Kolkata, West Bengal, it is about 540 km from Sundargarh and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Also known as Visakhapatnam International Airport, located in Andhra Pradesh, approximately 400 km from Sundargarh.
Located in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, it is about 730 km from Sundargarh and serves several international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group comprises a significant portion of the population in Sundargarh, known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional practices.
Scheduled Castes in Sundargarh have diverse backgrounds, contributing to various occupations and social structures.
The general category includes individuals from various communities who do not fall under the SC or ST classifications.
OBCs in Sundargarh include groups that are socially and educationally disadvantaged, but are not classified as SC or ST.
The Soul of Sundargarh
Discover the essence of Sundargarh through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hockey is the most popular sport in Sundargarh, known for producing several national players and having a robust grassroots structure.
Cricket enjoys significant popularity, with many local tournaments and a strong following among the youth.
Football has a growing fanbase, with local clubs and schools actively participating in tournaments.
Athletics is promoted through schools and colleges, and several athletes from the region have competed at state and national levels.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport that remains popular in rural areas, with many local competitions held regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sundargarh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local eateries and restaurants in Sundargarh offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, typically prepared using fresh produce and indigenous ingredients. Look for lentil-based dishes, vegetable curries, and flavorful rice preparations.
While traditional Odia cuisine heavily features rice-based items, individuals seeking gluten-free options should communicate their dietary requirements clearly when dining out. Many restaurants will accommodate gluten-free needs with rice-based dishes and other gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sundargarh with these cultural adventures.
