Pandi Dam is a beautiful and peaceful spot located in Kechala village, near Jeypore town in Koraput district of Odisha. Surrounded by lush green hills and calm water, the dam is a favorite destination for nature lovers, families, and locals looking for a relaxing outing.
The area is well-known as a picnic destination, especially during the winter season. With its cool breeze, scenic views, and quiet environment, it offers a perfect escape from the busy life of towns and cities.
History
Pandi Dam was built mainly for irrigation purposes. It supports the farming needs of nearby villages by storing and supplying water for agriculture. Over time, due to its scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings, it became a popular picnic and tourist spot in the Koraput region.
Kechala and surrounding villages are home to tribal communities, and their simple lifestyle and connection with nature add cultural value to the visit.
Price & Ticket
-
Entry Fee: No entry fee is required to visit Pandi Dam.
-
Parking Fee: A small fee may be charged for parking vehicles, usually managed by local authorities or community members (approximately ₹10–₹30).
Best Things to Do
-
Picnic: Carry homemade food and enjoy a day out with family or friends in the open air.
-
Nature Walk: Explore the area around the dam by walking along the water and enjoying the natural landscape.
-
Photography: Capture the beauty of the water, hills, and the greenery around.
-
Sunset View: Stay until evening to watch the calm and colorful sunset over the dam.
-
Bird Watching: Many local and migratory birds can be spotted in the region during the right season.
-
Cultural Visit: Observe local tribal lifestyle and crafts if you visit nearby villages like Kechala.
Restrictions
-
Swimming is not allowed due to deep water and safety concerns.
-
Avoid littering and keep the area clean. Use dustbins if available or carry waste back.
-
Loud music, alcohol, and any behavior disturbing other visitors or nature are discouraged.
-
Visitors should avoid going too close to the edge of the dam, especially during monsoon or when with children.
How to Reach
-
By Road: Pandi Dam is about 12 km from Jeypore. Local autos, taxis, and private vehicles can easily reach the site.
-
By Train: The nearest railway station is Jeypore Railway Station, well connected with Koraput, Rayagada, and other towns.
-
By Air: The nearest airport is Jeypore Airport. For more flight options, you can use Visakhapatnam Airport, about 220 km away.
Where to Stay
There are no hotels or lodges directly near Pandi Dam. However, visitors can find several accommodation options in Jeypore town, including:
-
Budget hotels and lodges
-
Government-run guest houses
-
Private homestays
For more options, you can also explore Koraput town, which is about 50 km away.
Nearby Places
-
Kolab Dam – A large reservoir with scenic beauty and boating (approx. 35 km)
-
Gupteswar Cave Temple – A sacred Shiva temple located inside a natural cave (approx. 70 km)
-
Duduma Waterfall – A high and powerful waterfall on the Odisha–Andhra border (approx. 80 km)
-
Jagannath Sagar, Jeypore – A peaceful lake and walking area inside Jeypore town
-
Sabara Srikhetra, Koraput – A major temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, influenced by tribal tradition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Pandi Dam suitable for a family picnic?
Yes, it is a safe and calm place for families to enjoy a day picnic. However, supervision is important for children near the water.
Q. Can we cook food at the site?
Yes, many groups bring cooking equipment and prepare food on-site. Visitors should clean the area after use.
Q. Is it safe to visit during the rainy season?
It is better to avoid visiting during heavy rains, as water levels may rise and paths may become slippery.
Q. Is there mobile network availability?
Most major networks work in the area, though the signal may be weak in some places.
Q. What is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit is from October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant for outdoor activities.