Bhubaneswar: Odisha is living up to the “India’s best-kept secret” tagline with its uncrowded, pristine, and diverse attractions that blend nature, history, and culture.
Almost a year after a natural rock formation on the Ib river in Sundargarh district caught his attention, Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra has once again spotlighted another lesser-known natural wonders from Odisha.
The industrialist recently shared a stunning video on X (formerly Twitter) of Duduma Falls, a breathtaking waterfall in Odisha’s Koraput district. “Odisha is no stranger to India’s tourism circuit. From the timeless Konark & Jagannath Temples, to the sands of Puri Beach and the vastness of Chilika Lake. But it seems that if you venture deeper into the state you discover landscapes that are every bit as spectacular. Duduma Falls in Koraput district where the Machkund River plunges dramatically off a rocky cliff is one such marvel. It’s a reminder that India’s beauty is inexhaustible. Just when you think you’ve seen it all… another wonder appears,” he wrote.
Odisha is no stranger to India’s tourism circuit.
From the timeless Konark & Jagannath Temples, to the sands of Puri Beach and the vastness of Chilika Lake.
But it seems that if you venture deeper into the state you discover landscapes that are every bit as spectacular.… pic.twitter.com/DMeCFscnfA
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) March 15, 2026
The video, originally highlighted by content creator Manas Muduli, showcases the Machkund River cascading powerfully down a rocky cliff, surrounded by lush green forests and dramatic terrain. The post quickly went viral, amassing thousands of likes, reposts, and views within a day, as it resonated with people amazed by yet another “hidden gem” in a country full of surprises.
Duduma Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in eastern India, drops from a height of around 175 metre Onukudelli. It is nestled in a scenic, forested area often visited by nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The site is also notable for its proximity to the Machkund Dam and reservoir, adding to its dramatic appeal.
Interestingly in March 2025, the state government sent a team to verify what tourist infrastructure can be developed at Kanhakund after Mahindra suggested transforming the distinctive rock formations into a world-renowned tourist spot, stating they need no comparison to the Grand Canyon.