Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra Group, has advocated for Kanhakund in Odisha to become a national and global tourism hotspot.
Known for its unique rock formations and clear blue waters, Kanhakund is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Odisha.”
“No need to compare it to the Grand Canyon. This is unique in its own way. Not sure if these pics are photoshopped, but even if they are to an extent, these formations are…AMAZING Hello @odisha_tourism what can we do to make this first a national destination and then a global hot spot???,” Mahindra Group Chairman wrote on X.
No need to compare it to the Grand Canyon.
This is unique in its own way.
Not sure if these pics are photoshopped, but even if they are to an extent, these formations are…
AMAZING
Hello @odisha_tourism _tourism what can we do to make this first a national destination and… https://t.co/RUxEdAXpOB
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) February 27, 2025
Located 120 km from Sambalpur, Kanhakund features a stone-bedded river sculpted by the Ib River and is noted for its geological significance and untouched natural beauty in the Sundargarh district.
Mahindra’s call aligns with the efforts of the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC), to promote the state’s natural and cultural attractions. The OTDC could play a key role in elevating Kanhakund’s status, leveraging the state’s initiatives to boost tourism.
With Mahindra’s encouragement, Odisha Tourism pledged to showcase Kanhakund and other underrated treasures, enhance infrastructure, create sustainable tourism experiences, and promote these unique destinations on national and international platforms.
In response, Odisha Tourism wrote on X: “Thank you! We’re thrilled to have your attention on Kanhakund, one of Odisha’s most stunning hidden gems, which has the potential to become a national and global hotspot. Odisha Tourism is committed to showcasing this and many such underrated treasures, and we’re working on enhancing infrastructure, creating sustainable tourism experiences, and promoting such unique destinations on national and international platforms. With your encouragement, we believe such unexplored destinations of Odisha will truly shine.”
Thank you! We’re thrilled to have your attention on Kanhakund, one of Odisha’s most stunning hidden gems which has the potential to become a national and global hotspot. Odisha Tourism is committed to showcasing this and many such underrated treasures, and we’re working on…
— Odisha Tourism (@odisha_tourism) February 27, 2025
Kanhakund is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush green landscapes and serene water bodies. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Odisha has numerous tourist attractions, including the famous Konark Sun Temple, Puri Beach, and the Chilika Lake, which is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. Promoting lesser-known places like Kanhakund can help diversify travel & tourism in the state.
The Mahindra Group has been involved in various sectors, including automotive, finance, and real estate. Their involvement in promoting tourism could bring substantial investments and development to the region. Mahindra’s advocacy for Kanhakund could significantly boost its visibility and promote it as a global tourist destination.
