Sunabeda Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, foods to try, and activities to do in Sunabeda, Odisha. Learn about its culture and customs, safety and health information, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Sunabeda Travel Guide: Discovering Odisha’s Hidden Gem

Located in the southern part of Odisha, Sunabeda is a lesser-known but breathtaking travel destination in India. This hidden gem boasts an abundance of natural and cultural attractions, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. In this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about Sunabeda, from its must-visit places to its local cuisines and customs.

List of Places to Visit in Sunabeda

Visitors to Sunabeda can immerse themselves in the town’s rich culture and stunning natural scenery. Here are some of the top places to visit in Sunabeda:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ganjifa Art & Craft Museum: This small museum houses an impressive collection of traditional Ganjifa cards, a type of playing card made from paper, ivory, or tortoise-shell. Visitors can learn about the history and techniques of this ancient art form.
  • Sunabeda Fort: Built in the 18th century, this fort was once the residence of the local king. Today, it’s a popular spot for enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
  • Tribal Museum: This museum showcases the diverse cultures and traditions of the local tribal communities. Visitors can see traditional clothing, musical instruments, and handicrafts.

Natural Attractions of Sunabeda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: Covering an area of over 600 square kilometers, this sanctuary is home to various species of animals, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. Visitors can explore the lush forest on foot or by jeep safari.
  • Deomali Peak: At over 1,672 meters above sea level, Deomali Peak is the highest peak in Odisha. Visitors can trek to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
  • Kolab Reservoir: This tranquil lake offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Visitors can take a boat ride, fish for carp and catfish, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sunabeda

The surrounding hills and forests of Sunabeda offer some of the best hiking and biking routes in Odisha. Here are some of the most popular trails:

  • Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Trek: This three-day trek takes visitors through the heart of the wildlife sanctuary, offering a chance to see exotic animals and stunning landscapes.
  • Deomali Peak Trek: Experienced hikers can tackle the challenging trail to the summit of Deomali Peak, which rewards with a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
  • Kolab Reservoir Cycling Route: This scenic route follows the winding road around the reservoir, offering views of local villages and farms.

Best Things to Do in Sunabeda: Activities and Tours

Sunabeda offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the must-try experiences:

  • Jeep Safari in Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: Visitors can explore the sanctuary’s diverse wildlife and natural beauty on a thrilling jeep safari. A trained guide will lead the way, pointing out the animals and sharing interesting facts about the ecosystem.
  • Visit Tribal Villages: Explore the unique cultures and traditions of the local tribal communities by visiting their traditional villages. Visitors can learn about their customs and way of life, participate in dances and songs, and shop for handicrafts.
  • Attend Local Festivals: Sunabeda is home to various festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Some of the most popular ones include the Chaitra Parba, Kenda Mahotsav, and Nuakhai.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sunabeda

Here’s a week-long itinerary for visitors to Sunabeda, allowing them to discover the town’s most important attractions and experiences:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Sunabeda, check in at your preferred accommodation, and take a walk around the town to get familiar with the surroundings.
  • Day 2: Visit the Sunabeda Fort in the morning, followed by the Ganjifa Art & Craft Museum in the afternoon.
  • Day 3: Take a jeep safari through the Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary and explore the lush forests and diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants.
  • Day 4: Trek to the summit of Deomali Peak, Odisha’s highest peak, for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
  • Day 5: Visit the Tribal Museum to learn about the diverse cultures and traditions of the local tribal communities, followed by a visit to one of the nearby tribal villages.
  • Day 6: Enjoy a boat ride or a fishing trip at the tranquil Kolab Reservoir, followed by a relaxing evening at your accommodation.
  • Day 7: Depart from Sunabeda, or continue on to nearby destinations, such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri or the Sun Temple in Konark.

Food and Drink Scene of Sunabeda

Sunabeda is known for its authentic Odia cuisine, which is typically vegetarian and cooked with traditional spices and herbs. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pakhala: This is a traditional Odia dish made of rice and water, typically served with vegetables and pickles. It’s a popular dish during the hot summer months.
  • Santula: This is a vegetable curry prepared with panch phoron, a blend of five spices, and mustard oil.
  • Chhenapoda: This is a sweet dish made from cottage cheese, sugar, and semolina, baked in a clay oven.

Local Beverages

  • Mahuli: This is a traditional drink made of fermented rice, which is sweet and sour in taste.
  • Khira: This is a sweet milk-based drink, flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts.

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

Sunabeda offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top picks:

  • Hotel Prashanti: This is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the town, offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
  • Kolab Residency: This hotel is situated near the Kolab Reservoir, offering scenic views and spacious rooms.
  • Eco Retreat Camps: These eco-friendly camps are located within the Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, offering a unique and immersive nature experience.

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

Sunabeda is known for its rich cultural heritage and handicrafts. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Ganjifa Cards: These are traditional playing cards made from paper, ivory, or tortoise-shell, featuring intricate designs and patterns.
  • Tribal Handicrafts: The local tribal communities are known for their skilled handicrafts, including woven bamboo and cane products, terracotta pottery, and wooden carvings.
  • Spices and Herbs: Sunabeda is home to a variety of aromatic herbs and spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Visitors can buy these ingredients from local markets to take home as a gift or for personal use.

Local Culture and Customs of Sunabeda

Sunabeda is home to diverse tribal communities, each with their own unique culture and traditions. Visitors are encouraged to respect their customs and way of life, and to seek permission before taking photographs or participating in any cultural activities. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and remove your shoes before entering temples or other holy places.

Best Time to Visit Sunabeda

The best time to visit Sunabeda is from November to May, when the weather is pleasant and dry. The monsoon season from June to October can be a bit challenging as heavy rainfalls can cause landslides, making the roads impassable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sunabeda

Do:

  • Respect the culture and traditions of the local tribal communities.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Seek permission before taking photographs or participating in cultural activities.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing or behave disrespectfully.
  • Enter temples or holy places with shoes on.
  • Take pictures of tribal people or their homes without seeking prior permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sunabeda

Sunabeda is a relatively safe place for travelers, but it’s always wise to take precautions to avoid any unfortunate incidents. Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in remote areas, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Carry a copy of your passport and travel documents with you.

Health in Sunabeda

Sunabeda is located in a malaria-prone area, so it’s important to take appropriate measures to protect yourself against mosquito bites. Wear insect repellent, cover your skin with long-sleeved clothing and pants, and sleep under mosquito nets.

Getting to Sunabeda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sunabeda is well-connected to other parts of Odisha and India by various modes of transportation. Here are some of the options:

Airports Near Sunabeda

  • Vishakhapatnam Airport: This is the nearest airport to Sunabeda, located around 200 km away. From Vishakhapatnam, visitors can take a taxi or bus to Sunabeda.

Bus Stations Near Sunabeda

  • Jeypore Bus Stand: This is the nearest bus station to Sunabeda, located around 50 km away. From Jeypore, visitors can take a taxi or local bus to Sunabeda.
  • Koraput Bus Stand: This is another nearby bus station, located around 70 km away.

Other Options

  • Taxi and Car Rentals: Visitors can also opt for private taxis or car rentals to reach Sunabeda from nearby towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Sunabeda

Getting around in Sunabeda is relatively easy, with various transportation options available. Visitors can choose from local buses, shared taxis, or private vehicles to explore the town’s attractions and surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Sunabeda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring the beauty of Sunabeda, visitors can explore other nearby destinations and excursions, including:

  • Jagannath Temple in Puri: This is one of the most famous temples in Odisha, located around 400 km away from Sunabeda. It’s an important pilgrimage site and a popular tourist attraction, known for its colorful festivals and cultural events.
  • Sun Temple in Konark: Located around 300 km away from Sunabeda, this ancient temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Odisha’s architecture. Visitors can marvel at its intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting stories from Hindu mythology.
  • Araku Valley: Located around 200 km away from Sunabeda, this picturesque valley is known for its scenic beauty and coffee plantations. Visitors can take a toy train ride through the valley, visit quaint villages, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Conclusion

Sunabeda is a hidden gem in Odisha, waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking an authentic cultural and natural experience. From its diverse wildlife to its unique tribal communities, Sunabeda offers visitors a glimpse into the heart of Odisha’s rich heritage and traditions. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re all set to explore the best of Sunabeda, including its must-see attractions, local cuisine, and transportation options. Happy travels!