TRAVELOGUE: Deomali Peak, Nature’s Treasure Trove in Odisha

“The mountains are calling, and I must go.” A beautiful quote which can inspire any nature lover to get up from his/her slumber in the thick of cities and towns and look up for a dreamland, say, a mountain peak.

In Odisha, one cannot escape the magic of the Deomali mountain, which is not only a majestic abode of nature but a respite that breathes freshness into any visitor.

Not merely towering in its look, Deomali is a combo of untouched nature and serenity for miles and miles.

The breathtaking highs and cascading steeps make this mountain range in Koraput district of Odisha stand apart as an all-weather destination.

Taking a jeep ride heading to the Deomali Peak is nothing short of a dream come true. The arduous, exciting and risky journey unfolds itself slowly. Situated at about 1,672 meters above sea level, it is the highest peak in Odisha.

The four-wheeler we were in was literally roaring uphill at the peak located near Baranandha village, about 70km from Koraput town.

As the elegance of nature unfolded, it was difficult to believe that the landscape 70km away from sleepy and quiet Koraput, is blessed with such a pristine and deep green forest, harbouring rich flora and fauna.

The hilly route is flanked either side by thick forests with both deciduous and afforested species. The higher we went on the misty road, the more we became impatient about our tryst with the Deomali mountain peak.

Deomali is dotted with brooks and deep valleys, and inhabited by tribes such Kandhas, Parajas, Bhumia, Malis and Bhotias. It is not only a marvel for the tourists but also to the adventurous sports lovers of hang-gliding, mountaineering and trekking.

Although many amenities are still missing there, the Odisha government has taken several steps to give the place a facelift to showcase Deomali as a coveted summer destination.

To popularise this peak as a hot tourist spot by connecting the tar roads, the government has provided amenities, such as drinking water points, small refreshment joints with minimum required snacks and relaxing avenues.

On the way up to the hilltop, one could notice a few enthralling waterfalls.

The closer we got to the Deomali hill top, the more we felt like we were taking a leap into the arms of the hills.

In my traveloguer phase as a journalist, I have seen many mountains. While some are all-time memories, the Deomali Peak left an everlasting impression with its beauty and tranquility and an indescribable feeling of witnessing the sunset.

The peak was quiet and the air was palpably transcendent, and as the night matured, the hums of nocturnal insects filled the air interspersed by sounds of jackals and other species and occasional roars of big cats.

We spent the night in two tents, dreaming of what spectacle awaits us at dawn. 

The writer is a freelance journalist based on Odisha.