Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has dispatched a team to Kanhakund, a natural rock formation on the Ib River in Sundargarh district, for location verification.
This followed a reaction to a post by industrialist Anand Mahindra, drawing attention to this lesser-known natural wonder, about 130 km from Sambalpur and Rourkela.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who holds the Tourism portfolio, assured that efforts would be made to develop the area. “….I would like to thank Anandji, who, through a single post, has brought this location to our attention…I extend my second thanks to him for inquiring about what can be done here…Sometimes, it so happens that the state government misses out on such places which are highlighted by nature lovers and others. We will certainly develop that place,” she said.
The Deputy CM said that she has already issued an order for spot verification of the place.
She also mentioned plans to write to him for further assistance and visionary ideas. “The government appreciates his input and intends to incorporate his suggestions into the development plans,” she added.
Also Read: Anand Mahindra Calls For Transforming This ‘Hidden Gem’ In Odisha Into Global Hotspot
A Delhi-based traveller, Aarayansh, shared pictures of Kanhakund on the social media platform, X (formerly Twitter) and questioned why such offbeat places were not on the tourism map of India.
“This is the Grand Canyon of Odisha, an underrated hidden gem, 120 km from Sambalpur. Clear blue waters pass through granite beds. I wonder why such places are not on the tourism map of India.” He also tagged the location as “Kanhakund, Odisha.”
Responding to the post, the business magnate said that the breathtaking formations in Odisha required no such comparison to be recognised for their beauty. “No need to compare it to the Grand Canyon. This is unique in its own way. Not sure if these pics are photoshopped, but even if they are to an extent, these formations are AMAZING.”
Tagging the Odisha Tourism Department, he added, “Hello @odisha_tourism, what can we do to make this first a national destination and then a global hotspot?”
In its response, Odisha Tourism had then said: “We’re working on enhancing infrastructure, creating sustainable tourism experiences, and promoting such unique destinations on national and international platforms.”
