[ABHI_1512]

Odisha is a mystery that is yet to be fully explored. So, with the aim of unraveling one such mystery, we decided for a place called TENSA. Tensa is known as a small hill station in the Sundargarh district of Odisha and which is primarily a mineral rich district, making it one of the most mined areas of the state. The place is characterised by the various iron ore mines all around it amidst the lush green forests. But Tensa is so much more than just the minerals.



The Gandhi Jayanti weekend offered us the chance to visit Tensa. The place is yet to get very popular and hence despite Tensa not being in the initial plan, we got the booking just in the nick of time. Tensa has a Nature Camp which is run by the Eco Tourism wing of Odisha Tourism and maintained in collaboration with people from the local community of Tensa.

The Eco tour Odisha has come a long way from the earlier days and the whole process is very streamlined now. Only bummer is the transaction charge that the official site levies on every online transactions. I mean why penalise the tourist in the name of transaction charges in this age of online bookings. I have not come across of this charge being levied by any other state website yet, certainly not for online bookings !!

Apart from that one thing, everything about the ECO TOUR ODISHA is great. They have started the nature camps at the lesser known places in collaboration with the local community people and which is really commendable. The tourism gets a boost and the locals get their livelihood avenues opened up as well.

Some pictures to start with:

[ABHI_1512]

Tensa Nature camp can be reached through many routes. The route that I chose was because of a place called Benisagar. So, while searching for the routes, I found that one route passes through a place called Benisagar and which is in Jharkhand. Benisagar is a small village and is a treasure trove of historical wonders. I had previously heard about the place but never really took interest. The place is very close to the Mayurbhanja district of Odisha and since it was en route, decided to see the place.



Found that the site opens at 9 in the morning and hence, I delayed my initial plan of driving through the night to reach Tensa. As it is, there was this show of Varun Grover that I attended along with few of BHPians on the friday night and hence decided to get some hours of shut eye before starting at 3.30 in the wee hours of saturday, 30th September. The route through Kharagpur-Baharagora-Bangriposhi-Jashipur-Benisagar-Majhgaon-Champua-Bhadrashahi-Tensa was showing a travelling time of around 9 hours.



Early morning start and I thought to make some swift progress through the almost empty roads through the city first and then the highways. But, the first roadblock came right on the dreaded Santragachi bridge where a truck had broken down and that resulted in a major bottleneck. Got held up for some time before making through the bridge and just when I was picking up some speed, another massive jam halted us near Kolaghat bridge. Two trucks collided right on the Kolaghat Bridge creating a traffic mess. It took the police almost half an hour to clear the wreckage while slowing down our progress in the process.







These two incidents aside, rest of the journey was as picturesque as it can get. As soon as I turned to the left from Baharagora, the landscape changed to various hues of greens all around. This is the same route which is popularly known as the Bombay road from Calcutta. This whole route has been a revelation to me, just for the sheer amount of greens all around.





The roads were great with occasional bad stretches due to non completion of four laning. The road passes through protected forest areas and ghat sections and hence, those bad stretches can be excused. Making up for the delays, made the first stop at Bangriposhi Duarshini temple which falls en route. Due to early morning hours, the temple was empty and it looked beautiful under the drizzle. A quick stop and few photos after, we started again for our next stop- Benisagar.



The route was criss crossing through states and the state roads were beautiful. The Jharkhand state roads are just brilliant and it remained that way all through the state. The roads are worse at Jashipur though and big craters need immediate repairs. Thankfully after the turn off at Jashipur, the roads are simply brilliant.






Reached Benisagar through some narrow roads. Benisagar is a protected place and comes under the Archeological Survey of India, Ranchi Circle. The history of the place as mentioned through the ASI description is as follows-
Benisagar is named after one Benu Raja who excavated the large tank situated in the village named after the said tank. Colonel Tickel who visited the place in 1840, first reported it. As per the local foklore, Benu Raja excavated the tank but it has not been archeologically ascertained. On the basis of the archeological finds, it may be said that the place was inhabited from 5th Century AD to 16th-17th Century AD. The artifacts found during the excavation tells us about the religious inclination of the place over the centuries.









The water tank is huge and the locals told me that excavation has been stopped as of now but it will start again soon. There is something about history that is always fascinating. I will let the pictures tell the stories for now.















There is a separate artefact shed where all the excavated portions are displayed, the samples of some artefacts have been pictured above.





The history of Benisagar is fascinating and it was even more astounding that the place was inhabited as recent as 17th century !!

[ABHI_1512]

Benisagar was a nice experience and it was time for Tensa again. Meanwhile, we were searching for a breakfast stop after Benisagar, but it was no where to be found . I reached Majhgaon and asked around for a breakfast stop while shopping for some knick knacks. One guy very kindly showed me a breakfast stop near the Majhgaon hospital. Upon reaching the place which was right on the road, the owner very sheepishly came out with a regret that his cylinder ran out of gas and that he has sent someone to fetch him a gas cylinder. Never before had we felt the importance of a filled gas cylinder !!







We crossed Champua soon after and were cruising past Bhadrashahi. It's not that we didn't see any breakfast shop thereafter but the idea was quickly shelved by seeing the menu on offer. After Bhadrashahi, we went past many iron ore mining facilities and the roads were a traffic mess. One lane of the highway was taken up by the dumpers and the roads were full of dust and slush . Most striking feature, there were hardly any private vehicles on that stretch of the highway and the few we saw, were covered in layers of dust and mud !!







We reached Tensa Nature Camp and were famished by then. The roads were all good apart from the dumpers lining the highway but that was to be expected because of the presence of so many mining factories.



We were accorded a traditional welcome by the staff at the nature camp and the manager of the camp made us feel just at home. Our tariff for the nature camp included the meals for the entire duration and we were soon at the dining table just after checking in.





The cottages in Tensa are made in a specific way, which in effect gives the visitors a feel of living inside tents. The cottages are equipped with all the creature comforts including air conditioners. In fact, the cottages are very nicely designed.







Now for the lunch, it comprised of the usual staple of rice, dal, two types of vegetables, salad, chicken curry and papad. The meal was served with utmost care and the staff were very courteous. The hospitality remains the highlight of this weekend trip.









Lovely homely lunch concluded the afternoon for us. The weather at Tensa is very unique and it really took us by surprise. It was raining when we landed at Tensa and just after lunch, the weather cleared up and it was bright sunshine all over. But soon after, the clouds engulfed the whole nature camp in no time. It's this play of clouds which is very peculiar and unique to Tensa and it was enthralling to feel it up close from the cottages.










The evening was spent roaming around the property. The nature camp also has a watch tower from where one can see the valley around the property. The nature camp sits atop a hillock and which is surrounded by lush green forests all around. The view from the watch tower is a sight to behold when its not raining. Copious amounts of tea and snacks made the evening even better. We could literally see the various hues of the weather change sitting right across the balcony of the cottage. Dinner was taken early before it started raining cats and dogs. The heavy downpour was like music to the ears fed on the cacophony of the city life.

[ABHI_1512]

It continued to pour through the night and at times, the sound of thunderstorms almost woke us up from the deep slumber. The morning though was a different story.









The sun was out in its full glory and the skies were wearing the hues of blue that is so synonymous with the advent of the festive season.



As we were served the breakfast comprising of hot pooris and tastefully done vegetables, along with the local sweet pickle which was a stunner, we decided to visit the Khandadhar water falls which was about 50 kms from Tensa.









Khandadhar falls is apparently the ninth highest waterfalls in India and arguably among the top two waterfalls in the state of Odisha. The place has a nature camp as well and several amenities been newly created for tourists. The parking area with ample space has been newly created for the tourists as well.





Reaching up to the falls was fun through meandering roads with lush green trees lined on both sides. At some point, both sides of the road are surrounded by lush green rice fields and it was a sight to behold. One need to buy tickets to enter the falls area and the parking/entry charge for the vehicle is also bundled along with the tickets. There is no charge for the cameras.





The real fun starts after one enters the gate and begins the hike towards the falls. The summit point of the falls can be reached after hiking more than six hundred steps with the elevation increasing with each step. The last hundred steps were the steepest but then the view is superlative once you reach the summit. The hike to the top is little difficult but is achievable with average fitness levels and some rest stops along the way. Spent some time at the top and while clicking the pictures, saw ominous clouds looming over.










We were not carrying any umbrella and that made me jittery somewhat. Started my descent soon but still couldn't beat the rain which made the steps slippery. And thereafter, it was the rain that guided us straight to the Khandadhar cafe which was right beside the entry gate.





Soaked in the rains and with nowhere to go, we decided to take the lunch instead. The cafe had basic canteen style food for tourists with options of chicken, fish, eggs and vegetarian meal. By the time we finished our lunch, rains had subsided. We made a quick move to the parking spot where our car was parked. And soon we were on our way to Tensa again.









Evening was again spent leisurely at the nature camp amidst the play of cloud and rains. The place is such that one can just sit the whole day and watch the glory of nature pass by. Of course, some fries and chai always helps





We had a nice chat with the manager of the property who very happily told us about the various Eco Tourism Projects in Odisha and that the whole thing is managed directly by the CMO. We have, after due consultation with him, decided to duly visit some of the projects which have newly come up at hitherto unknown places in the various parts of Odisha as and when we can.

[ABHI_1512]

Our little weekender was thus mainly about Tensa and the surrounding areas. We had plans to see the sunrise point at Kiriburu-a small little hamlet known for Iron ore mining and Saranda Forest as well as sunrise and sunset points, during our return to Calcutta. But heavy downpour again altered our plans since we had to reach Calcutta by the afternoon to attend a get together of friends. So, despite the initial plan, we dropped the idea.



Our return route was through Barbil, Chaibasa and Ghatsila and then to Calcutta. As I have already mentioned, the interior state roads of Jharkhand are simply brilliant.



Started very early in the morning amidst a drizzle. The staff at Tensa were absolutely wonderful and took care of our every little need. We promised to come back sooner.

















Crossed Barbil soon enough and passed by the side of Kiriburu and we were finally out of the red soil area some time after. Got stopped at a railway signal near Barbil and other than that, the journey was as smooth as it can be. There is a famous temple en route, Rankini Temple, just before Ghatsila. But seeing the massive crowd near it, decided to skip that too. The Rankini temple has the idol in the shape of a stone and that is believed to be the physical incarnation of Goddess Kali. It is believed that human sacrifices used to happen during the earlier times.







Reached Ghatsila soon after and stopped for breakfast at a special place. The Dhaba where we stopped was discovered during our drive to Ghatsila where our last TeamBHP meet happened. Sandhu BILU da dhaba served us some delightfully hot and tasty aloo paranthas. Along with the lovely tea, that breakfast kind of concluded our short weekend trip before we finally made the dash for Calcutta to attend the get together.



We reached Calcutta in time for the celebration. The venue being the present pilgrimage for Biryani lovers- Arsalan Biryani outlet near Jodhpur Park. So, all ends well that ends with biryani





Thousand kilometres of weekend run and some red soil memories after, it was time for going back to the city run. The entire weekend had the monsoon vibe pouring over and Baahon never looked prettier.





Happy motoring and wishing you all a very happy festive season ahead

[Aditya]

Thread moved out from the Assembly Line. Thanks for sharing!

[gmhossain]

Abhi, it's such a sweet little travelogue from you. With full of greenery all around, the mother nature is in its full glory now in these less visited parts of our country.

Originally Posted by ABHI_1512

Khandadhar falls is apparently the ninth highest waterfalls in India and arguably among the top two waterfalls in the state of Odisha. The place has a nature camp as well and several amenities been newly created for tourists.

... and what a coincidence! We drove to Khandadhar nature camp for a weekend trip just two weeks prior to your visit. We wanted to stay at Tensa camp for our 3rd night. Unfortunately, my better half couldn't manage to have an extra day off. Then we planned for a half-day trip to Tensa. However, after our strenuous morning trek to Khanadadhar water falls, we simply drop the idea of going anywhere in the afternoon. Instead, with our tired leg, we just enjoyed the view of the waterfalls by sitting in our balcony! We stayed at the upper cottages of the camp from where we had to first trek down to reach at the entry gate and then trek up to the waterfalls.

Originally Posted by ABHI_1512

We had a nice chat with the manager of the property who very happily told us about the various Eco Tourism Projects in Odisha.

Incidentally, he is currently in charge of both Tensa and Khandadhar eco camps. On our 2nd day, he bade us good bye to leave for Tensa camp in his bike. Now pardon me for bombing your thread with a few photos.

Our Nexon at Khanadhar Nature Resort


Me ... spellbound


My girls ... road side breakfast break along Bombay road!


Beautiful... Kolkata - Mumbai highway


Horrible ... Kolkata - Mumbai highway at Jashipur, Odisha

[Samba]

You really have a knack of finding the perfect stays in the lap of nature. Going by the current trend, it is becoming a headache to visit the regular tourist destinations due to huge rush of tourists. I have been to Kiriburu in November, but the actual beauty unfolds during the monsoon.
These travelogues are like a fresh air. Thoroughly enjoyed reading it, found all the necessary details to replicate this trip!
The photographs perfectly captured the vibes of a monsoon drive. The lush green scenery, the cloudscapes, the gushing waterfalls and your dual tone Bahoon all-together made it a treat to watch.

Originally Posted by gmhossain

... and what a coincidence! We drove to Khandadhar nature camp for a weekend trip just two weeks prior to your visit.

Sir, it's been a long time we have not read a signature gmhossain travelogue!
The teasers from your trip you shared here are beautiful, and now this increased the urge to read your full story !

[SnakemanJohny]

Great travelogue ! Used to be at Rourkela in the 1980s, and did weekend trips to Tensa, Kalta, Kiriburu etc. on our Yezdi m/cs.

The place is so different now ! At that time there were no places to stay except SAIL/RSP guest houses, roads were all single lane, and no places to visit but the waterfalls and streams !

[ABHI_1512]

Originally Posted by gmhossain

We wanted to stay at Tensa camp for our 3rd night. Unfortunately, my better half couldn't manage to have an extra day off. Then we planned for a half-day trip to Tensa. However, after our strenuous morning trek to Khanadadhar water falls, we simply drop the idea of going anywhere in the afternoon.

Thanks for the good words Golam, super enjoyed the little escapade amidst the greens. That part of Odisha is indeed waiting to be explored.

I too wanted to spend one night at Khandadhar Nature Camp but had to skip due to paucity of time. That trek to the top at Khandadhar needs some doing though but the sight more than makes up for it.

And thanks for sharing those wonderful pictures, if only now we get to see your signature logs as Samba has already mentioned or may be we would be treated to something bigger this festive season

Originally Posted by Samba

You really have a knack of finding the perfect stays in the lap of nature. Going by the current trend, it is becoming a headache to visit the regular tourist destinations due to huge rush of tourists. I have been to Kiriburu in November, but the actual beauty unfolds during the monsoon.

Thanks Samba, if only I could replicate your trips !! Your recent log was brilliant and I almost ventured on your path but for the distances and the short time in hand. Searches around and Tensa seemed to be an apt choice. It’s another matter that the place turned out out great. Kiriburu remains to be explored and so does many parts of Odisha. Let’s see when that happens, until then, will wait for your Pujo blockbuster.

Originally Posted by SnakemanJohny

Great travelogue ! Used to be at Rourkela in the 1980s, and did weekend trips to Tensa, Kalta, Kiriburu etc. on our Yezdi m/cs.

The place is so different now ! At that time there were no places to stay except SAIL/RSP guest houses, roads were all single lane, and no places to visit but the waterfalls and streams !

Wow and wow, what experiences on the Yezdi’s on those single twisting roads. I can well understand the scenario’s back then. The roads have improved and that’s mainly because of the mining industries that line up the areas. SAIL guest house is still up and running I guess but many new places have also come up. Worth a visit, just to be around those greens which are getting scarce every minute as we speak.

[Neversaygbye]

Originally Posted by ABHI_1512

Our little weekender was thus mainly about Tensa and the surrounding areas.

Amazing TL as usual and that too about places I had never heard of before I read your TL. How did you discover Tensa? Baahon really does get around! Loved reading the TL - the photos and descriptions made me feel that I was living in that moment.

Tensa is on my bucket list now - let's see when I get around to making it happen!

[BlackPearl]

Yet another lovely travelogue Abhi about a place I had no idea about. You remind me of ADC Da who used to travel to such sequestered places and write about his amazing experiences. I have so much respect for that man that this is the highest compliment I can give to anyone

[Travelmania]

Came across a lovely travelogue about a lesser-known place near Kolkata. It provided useful information about the place and made me consider exploring it in the near future. The accommodation is nestled beautifully in nature, and although there are a few rough patches on the Mumbai Road, the rest of the route seems fine. It's a shame that I visit Rourkela frequently for work but have missed out on this place.

[vijaykr]

Wonderful travelogue and fantastic pictures. Brought back memories of all my monsoon drives in Karnataka. Your write-up inspired me to think of going to Tensa myself and I immediately went to Google maps to see how far I've to drive




Unfortunately it looks like I've to park this for another time when I've more time on hand and can get family onboard with the idea. But yes, Odisha is on my todo list and it may end up as a trip covering multiple locations.

Thank you for adding yet another location to my "places to go" list. Cheers!

[ABHI_1512]

Originally Posted by Neversaygbye

Amazing TL as usual and that too about places I had never heard of before I read your TL. How did you discover Tensa?

Thanks for the good words Dada, I heard about Tensa while looking up Khandadhar falls. The place actually came up during the Covid days and the nature camp recently completed two years of operation. The Odisha government has been working actively with the locals through the Eco Tourism route. Many off beat places which were hitherto unknown earlier have come up recently and tourist facilities have been set up. Odisha is indeed India’s best kept secret. The state is witnessing a major impetus towards tourism now, specially after the Hockey World Cup. It’s a very good time to explore Odisha actually and I am sure you wouldn’t take long to do that.

Originally Posted by BlackPearl

Yet another lovely travelogue Abhi about a place I had no idea about. You remind me of ADC Da who used to travel to such sequestered places and write about his amazing experiences. I have so much respect for that man that this is the highest compliment I can give to anyone

ADC Da and his exploits about the unknown is a stuff of legends. No one can come close to him ever. That you mentioned his name on my thread is an honour enough for me. Last saw his picture with his cycle on frozen water and that was enough to deduce that he is continually charting his own course and making those swashbuckling travels. I hope he starts writing again, so that we continue to get inspired.

Thanks for the good words Sumitro, India waits for you and your drives. No place will remain unknown when you are around.

Originally Posted by Travelmania

Came across a lovely travelogue about a lesser-known place near Kolkata. It provided useful information about the place and made me consider exploring it in the near future. The accommodation is nestled beautifully in nature, and although there are a few rough patches on the Mumbai Road, the rest of the route seems fine. It's a shame that I visit Rourkela frequently for work but have missed out on this place.

Tensa is wonderful and I had the best of experiences there. The weather remains the highlight of the place and being almost on the Rourkela route, Tensa awaits your arrival Dada. I am sure you will love spending some time around in Tensa.

Originally Posted by vijaykr

Wonderful travelogue and fantastic pictures. Brought back memories of all my monsoon drives in Karnataka. Your write-up inspired me to think of going to Tensa myself and I immediately went to Google maps to see how far I've to drive

Thanks vijaykr, appreciate your lovely words. You have some real wonderful places to explore around Bangalore, specially during the monsoons. Having seen so many logs of places in and around Bangalore, I sometimes envy folks living there.

Odisha should be explored and I hope you get your family along as well. The state is a treasure trove of beautiful places and having seen the facilities that are coming up first hand, I can say that Odisha is certainly pushing tourism in a big way. Do visit before the commercialisation takes over the rawness of the state.

Regards.