According to a PTI report, a new eco-tourism complex has been inaugurated at Devkund, a green covered area located at the foothills of the Simlipal wildlife sanctuary, in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. The beauty of this place lies in its pristine forests, and an alluring 60-metre high waterfall which draws tourists throughout the year.
The newly-built eco-tourism complex includes two permanent eateries and three shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts. Added to this, four green toilets have also been constructed with water supply from the waterfall. The entire project, costing an amount of Rs 30 lakh, also included beautification of the site with installation of stone statues, and expenses incurred in training the local residents on how to manage the activities, under the supervision of the forest department.
Located 60 km away Baripada, Devkund is easily accessible by road. Those travelling via Balasore (87 km) can take the regular bus which plies up to Udala, and then take shared jeeps to cover the rest of the 28 km distance to Devkund. The last five kilometres leading up to the waterfall is through a dense forest area surrounded by the adjacent hills.