Raurkela: A major tourism push at Vedvyas and Khandadhar could turn Sundaragada into a stronger tourism hub, with improved infrastructure at the two destinations expected to draw more visitors, create jobs and stimulate the local economy, tourism stakeholders said.
Vedvyas and Khandadhar are among the prominent tourist destinations listed by the Odisha government. While Vedavyas is known for its religious significance and natural setting, Khandadhar is a major waterfall and nature attraction in the Bonai area.
According to a letter issued by the state Tourism Department August 25, a total of Rs 17.42 crore was sanctioned for the development of the Vedvyas temple during the 2023-24 and 2025-26 financial years.
Another Rs 5.15 crore was sanctioned for infrastructure development at Khandadhar. However, the funds are inadequate considering the scale of development required at the two destinations, said Bimal Bisi, president of the Raurkela Engineers’ Association.
Vedvyas, located near Raurkela, is associated with the confluence of the Sankh and Koel rivers and the origin of the Brahmani river. The site combines religious significance with its natural surroundings, making it a potential destination for religious and nature-based tourism.
Riverfront development, heritage conservation, visitor amenities and a sound-and-light show have been suggested as areas that could improve the site’s tourism infrastructure. Khandadhar waterfall, which has a reported height of 244 metres, is located amid forests and hilly terrain in the Bonai area. Its natural setting offers scope for eco-tourism and adventure tourism, stakeholders said.
Bisi said an integrated Sundaragada tourism circuit linking Vedvyas and Khandadhar could combine religious, nature, eco and tribal cultural tourism. Such development could generate employment for local residents and provide a boost to the district’s economy, he said.
