Why Mayurbhanj is among world’s 50 best place to visit .

Why Mayurbhanj is among world’s 50 best place to visit .

Mayurbhanj , the home district of President Droupadi Murmu , features on Time magazine’s list of the world’s 50 “greatest places” this year . Ladakh is the only other Indian place on the list . While Ladakh’s attractions like Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley are well known , here are some of the things that make Mayurbhanj in Odisha special . The 2,750-sq Similipal National Park situated in the tribal-dominated region boasts the only known population of melanistic (black) tigers in the world , as well as more than 40 other speies of mammals , including Asiatic elephants and Royal Bengal tigers .

Waterfalls

Mayurbhanj has many picturesque waterfalls . Joranda , Barehipani and Uski lie within the Similipal reserve , while Sitakund , Devkund and Olukudar are on its outer periphery . They offer majestic views amid high plateaus and hills . Among these waterfalls , religious importance is attached to Sitakund , named after goddess Sita , and Devkund , Which means a bathing tank for gods.

Tribal art & Culture

The Similipal reserve is home to many aboriginal tribal groups and conserves nature’s abundance while preserving their way of life . More than 70% of the population in the 1,200-odd villages within the biosphere and around it belongs to different tribes , including the Erenga Kharia , Mankidia , Gonda , Munda , Kolha , and Santhal tribes . Their livehood largely depends on the collection of minor forest produce and agriculture , but each has a distinct lifestyle and identity . Their handicrafts and handlooms , Sabai grass weaving and Dokra metal casting are unique .

Mona Sharma , secretary for forests , environment and climate change in the Odisha government , said, “It has been a deliberate effort to showcase the fragile ecosystem and ancient culture to the world, without disturbing them . Preservation comes first.”

Kai chutney & barter

In Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, a unique dish called “Kai Chutney” is making headlines. This spicy chutney, crafted from red weaver ants, just received a prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag on January 2, 2024. Made from Oecophylla smaragdina ants, which are known for their painful stings that leave blisters, this local delicacy turns these tiny, fierce creatures into a flavorful treat.

Kai Chutney isn’t only about taste; it’s packed with nutritional benefits too. The ants used in this dish are found in the lush forests of Mayurbhanj, including the renowned Similipal Forest—Asia’s second-largest biosphere. This GI recognition highlights both the chutney’s cultural significance and its growing reputation as a healthful, traditional food.

Simon Benzamin ,a tour operator who guides mostly foreign tourists , said ,”The tribal lifestyle is the biggest draw for many of the international tourists . Travellers from America , Europe and many Asian countries visit Odisha to see nature and people living close to nature . They return home and recommend it to their family and relatives .”

Chhau Dance

The Chhau dance of Mayurbhanj , a blend of ancient martial arts and folk dance , features on Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list . In April , the Belgadia Palace – a royal residence turned heritage hotel – will host the Mayurbhanj Chhau dance festival after a two years’ break due to Covid .