At 1,672 m Deomali is the highest point in Odisha, and unusually for a peak you can drive almost to the top. What you get is space: grassland, wind, and valleys folding away on every side.

Height
1,672 m
From Koraput
About 70 km, 2 h
Best months
October to February
Carry
Jacket, water, cash

The drive

From Koraput the road runs through Semiliguda towards Pottangi and then climbs. The final stretch is steep and tarred; the Traveller takes it slowly and the view opens with every bend. Allow two hours, more with a breakfast stop.

Rolling grass hills on Deomali with cloud shadows
Near the top: grassland, wind and long views.

Sunrise or sunset

Sunrise is the famous one and needs a 4:30 am start from Koraput, warm clothes and a group that will not mind the dark drive. Sunset is easier: leave after lunch, spend the golden hour on top, and be back in Koraput by 8 pm. Both are good; the mist is more likely at dawn.

On top

Open grassland with a viewing tower and a few amenities. Walk a little away from the parking to find your own edge. The wind is constant; in winter the temperature on top can be ten degrees below the town.

There is no reliable food on the summit. Eat in Semiliguda or carry breakfast.

Combine it with

  • Putsil valley, part of the same range, for a quieter viewpoint on the way back.
  • Nandapur and Rani Duduma on a full day, as in the 3-day plan.
  • Upper Kolab if you did sunrise and want an easy evening.
Green Deomali peak against a hazy sky
Deomali from the approach road.