About Joranda Waterfall
Joranda Waterfall is one of Odisha’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, located within the lush forest expanse of Simlipal National Park in Mayurbhanj district. With a free-fall height of about 150 meters (490 feet), Joranda descends in a single vertical drop, making it the highest straight-fall waterfall in Odisha and one of the tallest in eastern India.
The sight of water plunging down a steep cliff, with a thunderous roar echoing through the jungle canopy, leaves every visitor humbled and spellbound. Surrounded by dense sal forests and rolling hills, Joranda isn’t just a visual treat — it’s a powerful reminder of nature’s raw beauty and strength.
The Ride to Joranda
Reaching Joranda is part of the thrill. Riders must first reach the Baripada or Jashipur zone of Simlipal and enter through designated forest check gates. The journey involves paved roads, forest trails, and sometimes gravel stretches — all set amidst picturesque sal and mahua trees. The final approach to Joranda involves a short trek from the vehicle parking area through a well-marked forest trail.
Early morning rides offer the best experience — with misty air, wildlife sightings, and golden light filtering through dense greenery. It’s a route where silence is sacred and nature leads the way.
Scenic Beauty & Jungle Serenity
The Joranda fall drops straight into a deep gorge surrounded by thick vegetation and moss-covered boulders. Unlike stepped or multi-tiered falls, Joranda’s vertical plunge creates a dramatic white curtain, especially vivid after rains or during the winter flow. There are designated viewpoints and safety railings to enjoy the fall safely.
Aside from the waterfall, the area offers rich biodiversity — butterflies flutter around, birds chirp from treetops, and occasionally, deer or monkeys cross your path. It’s an ecosystem in motion, wrapped in serenity.
Nearby Attractions
- Barehipani Waterfall – Just a few kilometers away, Odisha’s tallest waterfall with a two-tier drop.
- Chahala Zone – A wildlife viewpoint where elephants and deer often gather near salt pits.
- Simlipal National Park – Home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and many rare orchids and medicinal plants.
- Uski Waterfall – A hidden gem for trekkers, lesser known but equally pristine.
How to Reach
Joranda Waterfall is accessible via Baripada (about 100 km) or Jashipur (about 50 km). Riders must obtain permits from Simlipal Forest Department at Pithabata or Jamuani gates. Bikes are allowed, but must follow forest speed limits and entry times (usually 6 AM to 2 PM).
The roads are mostly forest tracks, so a geared motorcycle is preferred. Local guides can accompany groups for safety and trail direction.
Best Time to Visit
The best months are October to February when the weather is cool and visibility is clear. The waterfall is at its fullest during November–January, fed by the post-monsoon flow. Avoid peak monsoon (July–September) as forest entry may be restricted and roads become slippery.
Conclusion: Vertical Grace in a Wild Embrace
Joranda Waterfall isn’t just a stop on the map — it’s a hidden world inside Simlipal where time slows down, and nature stands tall in all its glory. For riders, photographers, and nature seekers, the journey to Joranda is one of discovery, reflection, and wonder. It’s where your engine rests, and your soul takes over — soaking in the sound of water, wind, and whispering trees.