Pandi Picnic Spot
Pandi Picnic Spot, also known as the area near Kechala, is one of the most picturesque waterfront destinations in the Koraput district. Located approximately 15 KMs from the main town, it is situated along the vast backwaters of the Kolab reservoir. This spot is a perfect blend of natural beauty an d historical intrigue. The area is famous for the Kechala Dam and the serene environment it creates, making it an ideal location for day-long picnics. Historically, the region holds immense value; an ancient copper plate inscription from 1620 suggests that this land was granted to a scholar named Narasingha Mishra by the Maharaja of the time. Furthermore, Pandi and Kechala are significant centers of Jainism from the medieval period. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient Jain temples, including a notable 30-foot-high structure that houses images of Tirthankaras like Rishabhanatha and Mahavira. The picnic spot itself is characterized by its wide, calm waters surrounded by rolling green hills, providing a landscape that feels almost like a coastal retreat in the middle of the mountains. One of the main draws for tourists is the opportunity for boating. Taking a boat ride across the reservoir allows you to truly appreciate the scale of the water body and the beauty of the submerged hills. The spot is particularly popular during the winter months when the weather is mild and the water is a deep, clear blue. Families from across the district gather here to cook meals in the open air, a traditional part of the local picnic culture. The tranquility of the place is its biggest asset, offering a stark contrast to the busy market areas of Koraput. Whether you are interested in exploring the Jain heritage of Odisha or simply want to spend a day relaxing by the water, Pandi Picnic Spot offers a multi-faceted experience that caters to all types of travelers. It remains a somewhat offbeat destination, ensuring that it hasn't lost its pristine, natural charm to over-commercialization. :
General information
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Ideal Duration:
4 to 5 HoursPlace Type:
Waterfront & Picnic SpotEntry Fees:
General Access: There is no formal entry fee to visit the Pandi Picnic Spot as it is a public natural area.
Boating Charges: A boat ride can cost anywhere between Rs 200 to Rs 500 depending on the duration and the type of boat.General Access: There is no formal entry fee to visit the Pandi Picnic Spot as it is a public natural area.
Boating Charges: A boat ride can cost anywhere between Rs 200 to Rs 500 depending on the duration and the type of boat.
Parking: Small fees of Rs 20 may be charged for vehicle management during the peak winter picnic season.
:Timing:
Regular Timings: Accessible from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive by 11:00 AM if you plan to have a picnic lunch and enjoy the afternoon sun.
Sunset Exit: It is recommended to leave by 5:3...Regular Timings: Accessible from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive by 11:00 AM if you plan to have a picnic lunch and enjoy the afternoon sun.
Sunset Exit: It is recommended to leave by 5:30 PM as the road leading back to the main highway is not well-lit.
:Special Events:
Solar Eclipse Fair: Historically linked to a solar eclipse event in 1620, local commemorations or gatherings sometimes take place during astronomical events.
New Year Picnics: The biggest crowds gather on January 1st, making it a festive at...Solar Eclipse Fair: Historically linked to a solar eclipse event in 1620, local commemorations or gatherings sometimes take place during astronomical events.
New Year Picnics: The biggest crowds gather on January 1st, making it a festive atmosphere with music and feasts.
:Best Photo Spots:
Photo Spots:
The Waterfront: A classic shot of the blue water with the green hills in the background is the most popular frame.
Jain Temple Silhouette: Photographing the 30-foot temple against the morning sun...Photo Spots:
The Waterfront: A classic shot of the blue water with the green hills in the background is the most popular frame.
Jain Temple Silhouette: Photographing the 30-foot temple against the morning sun creates a majestic and spiritual image.
Boat Perspective: Taking photos from a moving boat captures the dynamic beauty of the reservoir and the ripples in the water.
:Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Boating: Hire a local boat to explore the vast expanse of the reservoir and visit the island-like hills.
History Exploration: Visit the ancient Jain temple to see the Tirthankara idols and learn about medieval Jainism in Odisha.
Outdoor Cooking: Join the local tradition of 'Van Bhoji' (forest feast) by cooking a meal over a wood fire with friends and family.
Photography: Capture the stunning reflections of the hills in the still waters of the reservoir.
Fishing: Engage in local-style fishing with the help of village fishermen who frequent the banks.
Sunset Watching: The spot offers some of the best sunset views in the district, with the sky turning vibrant shades of orange and pink.Boating: Hire a local boat to explore the vast expanse of the reservoir and visit the island-like hills.
History Exploration: Visit the ancient Jain temple to see the Tirthankara idols and learn about medieval Jainism in Odisha.
Outdoor Cooking: Join the local tradition of 'Van Bhoji' (forest feast) by cooking a meal over a wood fire with friends and family.
Photography: Capture the stunning reflections of the hills in the still waters of the reservoir.
Fishing: Engage in local-style fishing with the help of village fishermen who frequent the banks.
Sunset Watching: The spot offers some of the best sunset views in the district, with the sky turning vibrant shades of orange and pink.
Bird Watching: Spot various water birds like kingfishers and egrets along the shoreline.
Village Walk: Visit the nearby Kechala village to see the traditional lifestyle of the local tribal communities.
Meditation: Sit by the water's edge and enjoy the profound silence for a relaxing mental break.
Nature Study: Observe the unique flora that grows in the transition zone between the water and the hills.
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Information
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Why Famous:
Waterfront Beauty: Famous for being one of the best spots to enjoy the scenic backwaters of the Upper Kolab reservoir.
Jain Heritage: Renowned for its ancient Jain relics and temples, making it a key site on the Buddhist-Jain circuit of Odi...Waterfront Beauty: Famous for being one of the best spots to enjoy the scenic backwaters of the Upper Kolab reservoir.
Jain Heritage: Renowned for its ancient Jain relics and temples, making it a key site on the Buddhist-Jain circuit of Odisha.
Boating Destination: A popular hub for recreational boating and ferry rides that connect nearby tribal villages.
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Architecture:
Ancient Jain Temple: The primary architectural highlight near the spot is a 30-foot-high Jain temple built in the traditional Kalinga style, featuring stepped roofs and stone carvings.
Modern Dam Design: The Kechala dam structure itself is ...Ancient Jain Temple: The primary architectural highlight near the spot is a 30-foot-high Jain temple built in the traditional Kalinga style, featuring stepped roofs and stone carvings.
Modern Dam Design: The Kechala dam structure itself is an example of modern hydraulic engineering, designed to manage the waters of the Kolab river for irrigation and power.
Statue Dimensions: The Jain idols within the temple are approximately 1 meter tall, carved with precision from dark chlorite stone.
Boating Jetty: A small wooden and concrete jetty serves as the architectural point for boat departures, extending about 10 meters into the water.
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How To Reach:
By Air: The closest airport is Visakhapatnam (VTZ), followed by a road journey of about 5 hours.
By Train: Jeypore Railway Station is closer to this spot than Koraput, located about 10 KMs away.
By Road: Dr...By Air: The closest airport is Visakhapatnam (VTZ), followed by a road journey of about 5 hours.
By Train: Jeypore Railway Station is closer to this spot than Koraput, located about 10 KMs away.
By Road: Drive from Koraput towards Umuri/Kechala. The road is scenic but narrow in some parts.
By Local Transport: Shared autos and private taxis from Jeypore or Koraput are the best ways to reach the spot.
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Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Winter Season: October to February is the absolute best time, with clear skies and perfect temperatures for being outdoors.
Summer Mornings: In March and April, visit during the early morning before the sun gets too strong.Winter Season: October to February is the absolute best time, with clear skies and perfect temperatures for being outdoors.
Summer Mornings: In March and April, visit during the early morning before the sun gets too strong.
Evening Time: Late afternoons throughout the year are pleasant due to the cooling effect of the large water body.
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Near Tourist Places:
Jeypore King'S Palace (12 KM), Jagannath Sagar Lake (11 KM), Kolab Dam (15 KM), Subai Jain Temple (25 KM), Koraput Tribal Museum (16 KM), Duduma Waterfall (60 KM), Gupteswar Cave (80 KM), Sunabeda (25 KM), Putsil (45 KM), Bagra Waterfall (25 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Be extremely careful near the water's edge, especially with children, as the depth can increase suddenly.
Packing: Bring your own food and cooking supplies if you plan to have a picnic, as there are no major restaurants nea...Health & Safety: Be extremely careful near the water's edge, especially with children, as the depth can increase suddenly.
Packing: Bring your own food and cooking supplies if you plan to have a picnic, as there are no major restaurants nearby.
Accommodation: Stay in Jeypore or Koraput as there are no lodging facilities at the picnic spot itself.
Cash & Connectivity: Cash is Required for boating and local purchases. The nearest ATM is in Jeypore (10 KMs). Mobile Connectivity can be patchy near the water but is generally okay on higher ground.
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