Bhawanipatna Travel Guide

Explore Bhawanipatna, a town rich in culture and history. Discover the best places to visit, local cuisine, accommodation options, and much more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Bhawanipatna

Bhawanipatna is a small town located in the Kalahandi district of South Odisha, in Eastern India. Known for its rich culture and history, Bhawanipatna attracts tourists from all over the world. The town is named after the presiding deity of the region, Gopinath Temple, which is located in the heart of the town.

List of Places to Visit in Bhawanipatna

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gopinath Temple
  • Dokari Hill
  • Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Junagarh Fort
  • Ampani Hills

Gopinath Temple is the most popular tourist spot in Bhawanipatna, and a must-visit for all tourists. The temple was built in the 17th century and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple’s architecture is a fine example of the Kalinga style of architecture.

Dokari Hill is located on the outskirts of Bhawanipatna and is a great place to visit for nature lovers. The hill is known for its scenic beauty and offers a panoramic view of the entire town.

Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many endangered species, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. A visit to this sanctuary is a must for all wildlife enthusiasts.

Junagarh Fort is another popular tourist spot in Bhawanipatna. The fort was built during the 14th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.

Ampani Hills is a must-visit for all adventure enthusiasts, as it offers many exciting trekking routes.

Natural Attractions of Bhawanipatna: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kanak Valley
  • Phurli Jharan Waterfall
  • Patnagarh Waterfall
  • Harishankar Waterfall

Kanak Valley is a beautiful valley located near Bhawanipatna town. The valley is known for its scenic beauty and offers a perfect escape from the hustle-bustle of the town.

Phurli Jharan Waterfall is located around 15 km from Bhawanipatna and is a perfect spot for a picnic or a day trip with family and friends. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a breathtaking view.

Patnagarh Waterfall is another popular waterfall located near Bhawanipatna. The waterfall is known for its crystal-clear water and is perfect for a refreshing swim.

Harishankar Waterfall is located in the Balangir district of Odisha, around 80 km from Bhawanipatna. The waterfall is known for its scenic beauty and religious significance.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bhawanipatna

  • Ampani Hills trek
  • Dokari Hill trek
  • Junagarh Hill trek

Bhawanipatna is a great place for adventure enthusiasts. The town offers many exciting trekking and biking routes. The Ampani Hills trek is a popular trekking route and is known for its scenic beauty.

The Dokari Hill trek is another popular trekking route and is known for its natural beauty. The trek offers a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings.

The Junagarh Hill trek is a challenging trek but is worth the effort. The trail offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Bhawanipatna: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife Safari at Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Visit to Gopinath Temple
  • Trekking and biking at Ampani Hills
  • Picnic at Phurli Jharan Waterfall

Bhawanipatna offers many exciting activities and tours for tourists. A wildlife safari at Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary is a must for all wildlife enthusiasts.

A visit to Gopinath Temple is a must for all tourists, as it is the most popular tourist spot in Bhawanipatna. Trekking and biking at Ampani Hills is another must-do activity for adventure enthusiasts.

A picnic at Phurli Jharan Waterfall is a great way to spend a day with friends and family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bhawanipatna

Day Activity
1 Visit to Gopinath Temple
2 Wildlife Safari at Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
3 Trekking at Ampani Hills
4 Visit to Junagarh Fort and Dokari Hill trek
5 Picnic at Phurli Jharan Waterfall
6 Shop for souvenirs
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Bhawanipatna

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dalma
  • Chhena Poda
  • Pakhala

Dalma is a traditional dish of Odisha and is a must-try for all food lovers. The dish is made with lentils and vegetables and is served with rice.

Chhena Poda is a delicious dessert made with cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom. The dessert is a specialty of Odisha and is a must-try for all tourists.

Pakhala is a traditional Odia dish made with rice and curd. The dish is served with roasted vegetables and is perfect for a hot summer day.

Local Beverages

  • Saunf Sherbet
  • Bel Sherbet
  • Nariyal Pani

Saunf Sherbet is a refreshing drink made with fennel seeds, lemon juice, and sugar. The drink is perfect for a hot summer day.

Bel Sherbet is a traditional drink of Odisha made with bel fruit, sugar, and water. The drink is known for its cooling properties and is perfect for a hot summer day.

Nariyal Pani or coconut water is a must-try for all tourists. The coconut water is known for its health benefits and is a perfect way to beat the heat.

Where to Stay in Bhawanipatna: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Kalpana Palace
  • Hotel Gagan Palace
  • Hotel Bhagirathi

Bhawanipatna offers many options for accommodation, ranging from budget to luxury. Hotel Kalpana Palace and Hotel Gagan Palace are popular choices for budget travelers.

Hotel Bhagirathi is a great option for those looking for a more luxurious stay. The hotel offers many amenities, including a swimming pool and spa.

What to Buy in Bhawanipatna: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Dhokra Crafts
  • Sambalpuri Sarees
  • Pattachitra Painting

Dhokra Crafts are a traditional form of metal casting found in Odisha. The crafts are made using the lost-wax casting technique and are a must-buy for all art lovers.

Sambalpuri Sarees are another must-buy for all tourists. The sarees are known for their intricate design and are a perfect souvenir to bring home.

Pattachitra Painting is a traditional art form found in Odisha. The paintings are made using natural colors and are a perfect souvenir to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Bhawanipatna

Bhawanipatna is known for its rich culture and history. The people of Bhawanipatna are warm and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs.

The local language of Bhawanipatna is Odia, but most people speak Hindi and English. The town is known for its religious festivals and celebrations, including Ratha Yatra and Diwali.

Best Time to Visit Bhawanipatna

The best time to visit Bhawanipatna is between October and March. The weather during these months is pleasant, and the town is at its most beautiful during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bhawanipatna

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Carry sunscreen and mosquito repellent

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture and customs
  • Wear revealing clothes when visiting temples
  • Litter or harm the environment
  • Use unethical wildlife practices

Safety and Health

Safety in Bhawanipatna

Bhawanipatna is a safe town, and tourists are usually not subjected to any criminal activity. However, it is always recommended to be cautious and keep your belongings safe.

Health in Bhawanipatna

Bhawanipatna has good medical facilities, and tourists can easily find medical assistance if needed. However, it is always recommended to carry basic medicines and first aid kits.

Getting to Bhawanipatna: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bhawanipatna

The closest airport to Bhawanipatna is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is located around 320 km from Bhawanipatna. Another airport is the Jharsuguda Airport, which is located around 195 km from Bhawanipatna.

Bus Stations Near Bhawanipatna

Bhawanipatna is well-connected by bus to major cities in Odisha, including Bhubaneshwar, Cuttack, and Sambalpur.

Other Options

One can also hire a taxi or take a train to Bhawanipatna.

How to Get Around in Bhawanipatna

Bhawanipatna is a small town, and most tourist destinations are located within a few kilometers of each other. One can easily get around the town by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw.

Where to Go Next from Bhawanipatna: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sambalpur
  • Puri
  • Konark

Sambalpur is located around 260 km from Bhawanipatna and is known for its stunning temples and ancient history.

Puri and Konark are both located on the coast and are known for their beautiful beaches and historical significance. Both places are around 400 km from Bhawanipatna.

Conclusion

Bhawanipatna is a hidden gem in South Odisha, known for its rich culture and history. The town offers many exciting activities and destinations for tourists, ranging from nature walks to wildlife safaris. A visit to Bhawanipatna is a must for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Odisha.