Khandadhar Waterfall

Khandadhar Waterfall in Lahunipada Block, Sundargarh District, Odisha is a 244-metre (800 ft) horsetail waterfall on the Korapani Nala, a tributary of the Brahmani River. Located about 104 km from Rourkela in the Khandadhar hill range, it is considered the highest waterfall in Odisha and the 12th highest in India. Surrounded by dense forest, it is a major nature tourism attraction managed with a nature camp by Odisha Ecotourism.

Visitors can expect a tall single-drop waterfall cascading down a horse-shoe shaped cliff surrounded by dense sal forest and rocky hills. Access involves a trek and climbing approximately 600-700 concrete steps to a viewing platform opposite the falls. The site offers forested surroundings, mist and pool at the base, viewpoints for photography, small food stalls and an ecotourism nature camp. The flow is strongest post-monsoon.

The name Khandadhar is derived from 'Khanda' (sword) and 'Dhara' (waterfall), referring to the sword-like sharp edge of the hill. The area is part of the Bonai region historically inhabited by tribal communities and known for its forested hill ranges.

The waterfall and surrounding Khandadhar hill are revered by local tribal communities, particularly the Paudi Bhuyan tribe, and are associated with local folklore. The site is a culturally important natural landmark for communities in Bonai and Lahunipada area.