A Journey to Deomali: The Roof of Odisha
The road twisted and turned like a serpent climbing a hill as we made our way toward Deomali, Odisha’s highest peak. I had heard stories about this place—a hidden gem tucked away in the Eastern Ghats, standing proudly at 1,672 meters above sea level. It was the crown of Koraput, and I was determined to see it for myself.
The journey began in the quaint town of Koraput, a place where time moves slower, and the air feels fresher. The landscape transformed as we drove further, exchanging the town’s low-lying plains for hills draped in lush green foliage. The monsoon rains had left the valleys sparkling with life—fields shimmered in emerald, and the hills seemed to breathe, rising and falling like waves frozen in time. We stopped occasionally to soak in the views, each one better than the last.
As we ascended, the temperature began to drop. The sunlight softened, casting a golden glow over the landscape. It was difficult not to feel a sense of awe, especially as we reached the plateau leading to the peak. Deomali is more than just a hilltop; it’s an experience. The moment you step out of your vehicle and into the cool mountain air, you’re greeted with a sense of serenity.
From the summit, the world opens up before you—a panoramic view of undulating hills, dense forests, and narrow rivers slicing through valleys. The horizon seemed to stretch endlessly, and for a moment, I felt as though I stood at the edge of the world. The landscape was a mosaic of colors—deep greens, earthy browns, and in the distance, blue patches of sky reflecting off the lakes below.
But Deomali’s charm is not only in its views. It’s in the sense of peace that pervades the place. Even though it’s becoming a popular destination, it hasn’t lost its tranquility. A gentle breeze accompanied us as we explored the summit, and the silence was broken only by the occasional cry of a distant bird.
One of the highlights was walking along the ridge at the top. With the wind tugging at our jackets, we felt the raw power of nature around us. To one side, the vast expanses of Koraput’s valleys; on the other, a steep drop into thickly forested ravines. It’s a place that reminds you of how small you are in comparison to the earth’s grandeur.
As the sun began its slow descent, casting long shadows over the hills, the air grew cooler. We sat on the rocks, watching as the golden light faded, replaced by hues of pink and purple. It was a moment of pure contentment—where the worries of everyday life seemed to fade away.
Deomali is not just a destination for nature lovers or trekkers; it’s a place for anyone who seeks solace in the embrace of nature. Whether you’re a photographer looking to capture its beauty or simply someone wanting to disconnect from the chaos of the world, Deomali offers something unique.
The journey back was just as mesmerizing, with the twilight transforming the hills into silhouettes against the darkening sky. I knew as we left that Deomali had left an imprint on me, not just for its beauty, but for the peace it offered—a rare gift in today’s fast-paced world.
Deomali isn’t just Odisha’s highest peak; it’s a sanctuary for the soul.