Archive · 16 Dec 2025
Mahendragiri In Odisha To Become Pilgrimage And Eco-Tourism Hub
A group of Odisha legislators visited Mahendragiri, a tall mountain in Odisha, India.
This mountain is very special because it is not only the highest in the Eastern Ghats of Odisha but also has a lot of plants and animals, and it is important in Hindu stories.
The government wants to make it a place where people can go to pray and enjoy nature.
They recently opened some special cottages for people to stay.
The mountain has many old temples and is home to a tribe called the Sabar.
The government is also making plans to protect the mountain while developing it for visitors.
A 12-member delegation of Odisha legislators visited Mahendragiri to review development efforts for pilgrims and tourists.
Mahendragiri is the highest peak of the Eastern Ghats in Odisha, with an elevation of 1,501 metres.
The mountain is known for its rich biodiversity, mythological significance, and ancient temples.
The government has inaugurated 10 eco-retreat cottages to promote eco-tourism in the region.
The state government aims to develop Mahendragiri as a confluence of nature and spirituality while protecting its ecological and spiritual integrity.
- Who
- Odisha legislators led by steel and mines minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena
- What
- Visit to Mahendragiri to review development efforts for pilgrims and tourists
- When
- Two-day visit on Sunday and Monday
- Where
- Mahendragiri in Gajapati district, Odisha
- Why
- To develop the site into a major destination for pilgrims and tourists, balancing development with conservation
- Location
- Gajapati district, Odisha, India
- Elevation
- 1,501 metres (4,925 feet)
- Significance
- Highest peak of the Eastern Ghats in Odisha, rich biodiversity, mythological roots
- Recent Development
- Inauguration of 10 eco-retreat cottages
- Mythological Importance
- Site where Lord Parashurama performed austerities, mentioned in ancient scriptures and Puranas
- Temples
- Shiva temple, Bhim Temple, Kunti Temple, Yudhisthir Temple, Hanuman Temple, Gokarneswar Temple
- Tribal Communities
- Sabar tribe, connected with local spiritual practices
- Government Initiative
- Included in the Ramayan Circuit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi