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Kandhamal district enjoys fairly good connectivity by road and limited rail links, connecting it with major cities of Odisha as well as neighbouring states.
Kandhamal district enjoys fairly good connectivity by road and limited rail links, connecting it with major cities of Odisha as well as neighbouring states. Located in the southern part of Odisha, Kandhamal lies at an approximate distance of 270 kilometres from Bhubaneswar, the state capital. The district headquarters is Phulbani.
Road Connectivity
Kandhamal is well connected by road to several important towns and cities of Odisha. The district has direct road links to Bhubaneswar via Nayagarh, Brahmapur, Sambalpur via Boudh, and Bolangir through a network of National and State Highways. Regular bus services operate between Kandhamal and major cities such as Bhubaneswar and Brahmapur, making road travel the most convenient mode of transport.
The district is served by important National Highways. National Highway 326 (NH-326) passes through Kandhamal and connects it with places like Rayagada and Chinturu, ensuring smooth movement of people and goods. National Highway 217 (NH-217) also runs through the district, and there are proposals to widen this highway to further improve connectivity, especially for administrative and security needs.
Among the State Highways, State Highway 1 (SH-1) connects Phulbani with Nayagarh and Boudh. This route is well known for its scenic beauty as it passes near the Satkosia and Daspalla forest areas. Another important route, State Highway 41 (SH-41), connects Baliguda with Sonepur, strengthening road connectivity within the district and to neighbouring regions.
Both the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private bus operators run frequent services throughout the day, offering affordable and comfortable travel options. In addition, taxis and shared vehicles are easily available for more flexible and direct travel.
Rail Connectivity
Kandhamal does not have a railway station within the district. The nearest railway station is Rairakhol, located about 99 km from Phulbani, which serves as the district’s primary railhead. Rairakhol Railway Station lies on the Cuttack–Sambalpur railway line, with several passenger and express trains halting there. From Rairakhol, travellers can access major railway junctions such as Brahmapur, Sambalpur, and Bhubaneswar through connecting services.
Local Transport
For movement within the district, various local transport facilities are available. The LAccMI Bus Service, along with private buses, provides convenient connectivity between Phulbani and different blocks and villages of the district. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and shared vehicles are commonly used for short-distance travel to nearby markets, administrative centres, and tourist locations.
Tourist Accessibility
Kandhamal is known for its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage, attracting visitors to popular destinations such as Daringibadi, Belghar, and Putudi Waterfall. These tourist spots are connected by well-maintained roads, ensuring easy accessibility. The district offers a range of accommodation facilities, including eco-retreats, nature camps, and budget hotels, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Conclusion
Overall, Kandhamal’s transport network provides reliable road connectivity to major urban centres and ensures smooth mobility within the district. Its scenic routes, pleasant climate, and growing transport facilities make Kandhamal an appealing and accessible destination for both residents and visitors.