Bangriposi Odisha Travel: Have you ever finished reading a book and felt an overwhelming urge to visit the places described in it? I’ve experienced this countless times, finding myself enamored with the cities, villages, and countries brought to life through the pages. For instance, after reading “Seven Years in Tibet,” I was captivated by the idea of visiting Tibet. Similarly, “Prisoners of the Sun” sparked a desire to explore the Andes in South America. Our trip to Bhulbhulayia in Lucknow was particularly memorable because I knew that a certain “Feluda” had been there! So, when I came across “Bangriposir du Ratri” (Two Nights at Bangriposi), a romantic novel by Buddhadeb Guha, I was instantly drawn to the idea of visiting Bangriposi.
The wait to visit Bangriposi was a long one, as it never seemed to fit into our travel plans, even after several trips to Odisha. However, an impromptu plan with a friend finally set the wheels in motion. We decided to visit Bangriposi in the middle of the rainy season, feeling as though the place was calling out to us, rain or shine. It reminded me that it’s never too late to visit the places you’ve longed to see or to indulge in the adventures you’ve always wanted to embark on.
Bangriposi, a tribal village nestled in the Thakurani ranges of Odisha, offers a perfect blend of stunning landscapes and serene surroundings. The name “Bangriposi” translates to “beautiful daughter of the hills,” a fitting description for such a picturesque place.
Exploring Bangriposi
The best way to explore Bangriposi is on foot, though you can also hire a car to visit the nearby attractions. We spent two days in Bangriposi, with a car at our disposal on the first day to explore the local sites.
The Buribalam River
Our first stop was the Buribalam River, a place of historical significance in India’s fight for independence. Indian freedom fighter Bagha Jatin famously fought against the British along the banks of this river. The lush greenery surrounding the river was a refreshing sight, a stark contrast to the urban landscapes we’re accustomed to in Kolkata.
Duarsini Temple (Bonbibi Temple)
Next, we visited the Duarsini Temple, also known as the Bonbibi or Kanak Durga Temple, located on the Thakurani Hills. The temple is regarded as the gateway to the Simlipal Forests, and locals often seek the blessings of Bonbibi before venturing into the forest.
Bisoi Haat – A Vibrant Local Market
Our journey continued to Bisoi Haat, a weekly market located 17 km from Bangriposi. The market was a bustling hub of activity, filled with locals buying and selling various goods. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere made it a memorable experience.
Discovering Nearby Attractions
On our second day, we ventured further afield to explore the Sulaipat and Bankbal Dams. The scenic drive and the breathtaking views of these dams made the trip worthwhile.
The Beauty of Sulaipat Dam
Sulaipat Dam, located about 40 km from Bangriposi, was a sight to behold, with its vast expanse of water set against a backdrop of hills and clouds. The rainy weather added a romantic touch to the scene, making it all the more enchanting.
The Tranquil Bankbal Dam
Although not as majestic as Sulaipat, Bankbal Dam was still a beautiful spot. We took a leisurely walk along the dam, enjoying the serene surroundings before the rain caught up with us.
Visiting Kuliana – The Dokra Handicraft Village
On our way back to Balasore, we stopped at Kuliana, a village known for its Dokra handicrafts. This ancient art form involves non-ferrous metal casting using the lost-wax technique. The intricate craftsmanship of the Dokra artifacts was impressive, a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans.
Wrapping Up Our Trip
Our trip to Bangriposi ended with fond memories as we waited for the Dhauli Express at Balasore, reflecting on our wonderful weekend adventure.
Exploring Simlipal National Park
While visiting Bangriposi, you can also explore Simlipal National Park, located about 60 km away. The park is a vast sanctuary and Tiger Reserve, offering a chance to see wildlife and stunning natural beauty.
Waterfalls in Simlipal National Park
Two notable waterfalls in the park are Barehipani and Joranda. Barehipani, with its 400-meter drop, is especially majestic, while Joranda’s 150-meter drop is equally breathtaking.
Accommodations in Bangriposi
During our stay in Bangriposi, we chose Khairi Resort, which was once the Panthanibas under the Odisha Tourism Department. The resort has been transformed into a beautiful place to stay, surrounded by lush greenery.
Best Time to Visit Bangriposi
Bangriposi is a destination for all seasons. While the winters offer a chance to explore the nearby forests, the monsoons bring a unique charm to the area, as we discovered during our visit.
An Interesting Find at Khairi Resort
At Khairi Resort, we stumbled upon a GTS Benchmark, a remnant of the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India. This discovery added an unexpected historical element to our stay, making our trip to Bangriposi even more memorable.
