Kashmir of Odisha is Back in Focus

Bhubaneswar, Dec. 27: The “Kashmir of Odisha” is back in focus with travellers from across the state and outside thronging the spot, giving tourism a boost.

Daringbadi, by virtue of its valleys, coffee plantations and tall pine trees, has once again turned into a major tourist attraction. Tourism minister Ashok Chandra Panda claimed the situation in the tourism sector had improved a lot. “The steps taken by the department have started yielding results, attracting tourists to not only Kandhamal, but also Odisha as a whole.” Besides Kandhamal, the other major tourist attractions are the Puri-Konark-Bhubaneswar golden triangle, Bhitarkanika and Similipal national parks.

Puri is another major tourist hub at the moment. “I have travelled to most parts of India. But, the Puri beach, particularly along the Puri-Konark marine drive, is unique.

Another major tourist attraction remains Bhitarakanika in coastal Kendrapara. “The albino crocodile works as a magnet for the tourists. However, the national park will remain closed from January 1 to 12 to carry out a census on the salt-water crocodile.

The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj is yet another favourite destination. After the state government initiated steps to free it from Maoist menace, the tourists have started visiting, lured by the prospect of seeing the big cats.