TNI Bureau: For years, Shimla and Manali symbolised the ultimate travel dream for young Odias. Snow selfies, café-hopping, and crowded mall roads once defined a “perfect” mountain holiday. But a quiet shift is unfolding. Today, more and more Odia youth are turning their backs on the familiar Himalayan circuit and rediscovering something closer, deeper, and more meaningful, Mahendragiri and Koraput.
This change is not merely about geography; it is about identity. Young travellers are seeking experiences that feel authentic rather than curated. Mahendragiri, rising majestically in southern Odisha, offers mist-laden mornings, ancient temples, and a silence that speaks louder than tourist chatter. The sacred hill, associated with the Ramayana and steeped in Shaiva traditions, has become a space where spirituality blends seamlessly with adventure. Trekking through dense forests, watching clouds roll beneath one’s feet, and witnessing sunrise from the summit feels far more intimate than navigating overcrowded hill stations.
Koraput, on the other hand, has emerged as a soulful alternative for those craving raw beauty and cultural richness. Its rolling hills, emerald valleys, and waterfalls like Punjisil, Duduma, and Bagara present landscapes untouched by commercial excess. For young Odias, Koraput is not just a destination; it is a revelation. Here, travel is slow, conversations are real, and the bond with nature feels honest. Interactions with tribal communities, tasting traditional millet-based cuisine, and witnessing weekly haats offer stories that no luxury resort can replicate.
Affordability also plays a crucial role. With rising travel costs, long-distance trips to Himachal Pradesh are no longer feasible for many young professionals and students. Mahendragiri and Koraput, accessible and budget-friendly, allow youths to explore without financial strain while supporting local livelihoods. This conscious choice reflects a growing sense of responsible travel among Odia youth.
Social media has further amplified this shift. Instead of predictable snow pictures, feeds are now filled with fog-draped hills, tribal art, forest trails, and quiet homestays. There is pride in showcasing Odisha’s own hidden treasures, reclaiming narratives that were long overlooked.
Ultimately, the preference for Mahendragiri and Koraput over Shimla and Manali signals a deeper cultural awakening. Odia youth are no longer chasing trends; they are embracing roots. In choosing their own mountains over distant snowfields, they are redefining travel as a journey of connection, to land, culture, and self.
