Handibhanga Waterfall, Keonjhar — Attraction in Odisha

Review of Handibhanga Waterfall

Overview Handibhanga Waterfall is a hidden gem located near Keonjhar in the Indian state of Odisha. Nestled amidst the lush green forests of the Eastern Ghats, this enchanting waterfall is approximately 30 meters (98 feet) high. It is less well-known than some other waterfalls in the region, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.

Natural Beauty and Landscape Handibhanga Waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and rocky terrains, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The waterfall cascades over a series of rocks, forming a stunning visual spectacle and a soothing soundscape. The area is rich in biodiversity, with abundant flora and fauna adding to the charm of the location.

Accessibility and Trekking The waterfall is accessible via a short trek through the forest, which can be a bit challenging due to the uneven terrain but is generally manageable for most visitors. The trek is an adventure in itself, offering opportunities to explore the diverse ecosystem and enjoy the scenic beauty of the forest.

Visitor Experience Handibhanga Waterfall is an excellent spot for picnics, photography, and relaxation. The peaceful environment makes it a perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pools formed by the waterfall or simply relax on the rocks and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Facilities and Amenities The site is relatively undeveloped, so facilities are limited. Visitors are advised to bring their own food, water, and other essentials. It is also important to ensure that the area is kept clean by not leaving any litter behind, preserving the natural beauty for others to enjoy.

Conservation and Environmental Concerns Preserving the pristine condition of Handibhanga Waterfall is crucial. As tourism in the area increases, efforts should be made to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. This includes minimizing human impact on the ecosystem and ensuring the site remains free of pollution.

Conclusion Handibhanga Waterfall is a beautiful and tranquil destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Its serene surroundings and breathtaking beauty make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to escape into the wilderness. With its untouched charm and peaceful ambiance, Handibhanga Waterfall is a wonderful spot to connect with nature and...

🌿 Nature & Scenery

Handibhanga plunges from about 30 meters (≈100 ft) into a serene natural pool, surrounded by dense Eastern Ghats forest. The tiered rock face and lush backdrop create a picturesque, tranquil setting, making it a standout natural retreat .

👍 Visitor Experience

Off‑beat & Peaceful Not overly crowded—even in peak season—this waterfall is ideal for those seeking solitude and quiet nature immersion .

Picnic-Ready Spot Visitors often arrive with family or friends, setting up near the pool and enjoying the cool splash under the fall .

Photogenic Landscape The lush greenery and majestic waterfall make for excellent nature photography opportunities and relaxed sightseeing .

⚠️ Things to Consider

Rough Access Road The final kilometers are on unpaved or monsoon-affected tracks, best navigated by SUVs or bikes. A short walk (~300–750 m) from the parking area is required .

Minimal Facilities There are no restrooms, stalls, or shops on-site. Visitors should carry sufficient water, snacks, and pack out all garbage .

Seasonal Water Flow Best visited October–March, when flow is steady. Dry-season visitors might find a reduced or trickling cascade .

🧭 Tips for Visitors

Ideal Timing: October to March; avoid monsoon months due to slippery rocks .

Vehicle Suggestion: Use an SUV or sturdy bike for rough terrain — car drives may be bumpy .

Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, sturdy footwear, and a small first-aid kit.

Leave No Trace: There’s no waste disposal—ensure you carry out all trash.

📝 Final Verdict

Handibhanga Waterfall is a charming, peaceful escape perfect for picnics, photography, and reconnecting with nature. Its off-beat vibe and scenic beauty are major highlights. However, limited infrastructure and rough access mean it's best suited for prepared, adventurous visitors. If you're looking for a scenic, crowd-free spot with raw natural charm, this falls into the top tier of Odisha’s...

Weekend ride 400 km 🏍️

Murga mahadev temple & waterfall Handibanga waterfall

Crossed 3 district

Leaving the jamshedpur city at 5 in the morning via Chaibasa after 136 km rides in 4 hours, Reached murga mahadev mandir.

This Shiva temple situated in the dense forest of Odisha is very old and is the center of faith of the people. The tune of Shiva from the temple amidst the dense forest as well as the melodious sound of the waterfall falling from the mountains inside the temple complex. By the way, we came after taking a bath but could not stop ourselves from seeing the waterfalls. After taking a bath in the waterfall, we took Shiva's blessings in the temple and then haddibhanga set out at 11 am towards the waterfall.

It was 40 km away but the road was so bad that the bike was running at a speed of 10-15. In between, we destroyed the couple and left the city. It took 2.30 hours to reach 40 km to reach handibanga. Half kilometer to reach the handibanga waterfall, had to walk through the dense forest Shashwat reached first then we were all behind when we reached the waterfall. Apart from us, there was no one there, it is not a matter of everyone to reach so much inside the forest. A very luxurious and beautiful place but equally dangerous. We spent some time here and it started raining too loudly. And 2 was supposed to go to the waterfall but due to rain and due to the time decided to go back home.

Now we chose another route to go back which was 180 km to reach Jamshedpur. The rain was in full swing but we did not stop. Everyone was separated on the way, I shared the live location on whatsaap and everyone was also getting to know each other's location and movement, then all became tension free. I was so tired that I was feeling sleepy while sitting on the bike, I sleep 2 times, after 180 km ride, we all reached home at 9...