Just 200 km from Vizag. Anand Mahindra finds a 'spectacular' tourist destination. It is a waterfall

Industrialist Anand Mahindra recently turned the internet’s attention to a lesser-known natural destination in eastern India after sharing a short video of a waterfall in Odisha. The location, Duduma Falls in the Koraput district, sits roughly 177 to 200 kilometres from Visakhapatnam and is surrounded by thick forests and rugged cliffs.

In a post on X, Mahindra pointed out how even in states that already attract tourists for temples and beaches, there are still many landscapes that remain largely unexplored. His post soon caught the interest of travellers and nature lovers online. “Odisha is no stranger to India’s tourism circuit. From the timeless Konark & Jagannath Temples, to the sands of Puri Beach and the vastness of Chilika Lake,” he wrote.

He added that when people travel deeper into the state, they begin to see a different side of its natural beauty. “But it seems that if you venture deeper into the state you discover landscapes that are every bit as spectacular,” he wrote.

Duduma Falls: A dramatic natural sight

The waterfall Mahindra highlighted is Duduma Falls, where the Machkund River plunges over a rocky cliff, creating a dramatic cascade of water. The location sits on the border between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh and is considered one of the tallest waterfalls in eastern India.

Mahindra described the place in his post while sharing the video. “Duduma Falls in Koraput district where the Machkund River plunges dramatically off a rocky cliff is one such marvel,” he wrote.

The falls are surrounded by dense greenery and rocky terrain, which makes the landscape appear raw and untouched. During the monsoon months, the water flow becomes stronger, and the sound of the falling water can be heard from a distance.

He ended his post with a reflection on the country’s natural diversity. “It’s a reminder that India’s beauty is inexhaustible. Just when you think you’ve seen it all… another wonder appears.”

Location and travel details

Duduma Falls is located in the scenic Koraput region of Odisha. The drive from Visakhapatnam usually takes around five to five and a half hours depending on the route. Travellers can reach the area through highways such as NH 516C or NH 516B and NH 516E.

If someone is already visiting Araku Valley, the waterfall is much closer, roughly 70 to 82 kilometres away. The nearest railway station is in Koraput, while the nearest major airport is in Visakhapatnam. From there, visitors usually hire taxis or travel by road.



The waterfall itself drops from a height estimated at around 157 metres, making it one of the largest cascades in the region. The surrounding area is also home to the Machkund hydroelectric project, one of the oldest power projects in the region.

Another nearby attraction: Rani Duduma

Tourism information from Odisha also points to another scenic waterfall nearby called Rani Duduma Waterfall. Though often confused with Duduma Falls, the two are different locations and lie about 54 kilometres apart.

Rani Duduma is located at the top of Nandapur Hill and can be reached after a short walk of about one kilometre along the river. The waterfall is about 60 to 70 feet high and is surrounded by forests and open landscapes.

The peaceful environment has made it a popular winter picnic spot for locals and travellers. Many people also visit for photography because of the natural setting and the clear water.



Parking facilities are available near the site, with bike parking costing ₹20 and car parking ₹50, while the entry fee is ₹10.

For those planning a visit, Duduma Falls also offers a view of the nearby Machkund Hydroelectric Project, which is among the older power installations in the region and adds another point of interest to the trip. The area sits at a high elevation of around 3,000 feet above sea level, which is why the surroundings often feel cooler compared to the plains.

While the main viewpoint is accessible, exploring beyond it can involve uneven terrain, so basic precautions are necessary. Visitors are generally advised to carry water, snacks and essential supplies, as shops are limited in the vicinity, and to be careful around wet rocks near the falls, which can get slippery, especially after rains.