Recently, Odisha‘s Sundergarh and Mayurbhanj districts experienced a rare winter spectacle, with heavy snow and frost blanketing the region, creating picturesque cold-weather paradises. Temperatures plunged to an extraordinary low of 3°C, drawing attention from tourists and sparking a buzz throughout the state. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a yellow warning, anticipating the cold wave that eventually swept through the area.
In Sundergarh’s Koida area, residents woke up to snow-dusted fields and frost-covered vehicles on Sunday morning. This freezing weather extended to neighboring areas like Tensa, Kalta, Malda, and Kasira, where the frosty landscape captivated locals and visitors alike. Mayurbhanj’s Similipal region, known for its wildlife and trekking trails, was also enveloped by intense frost, with temperatures staying below 3°C for three consecutive days.
While daily life was disrupted, especially for workers, students, and the elderly, the sight of winter’s beauty outweighed the challenges. Many resorted to traditional ways of staying warm, such as lighting bonfires and wearing heavy layers of clothing. Despite the biting cold, the event has piqued widespread fascination, turning Odisha into an unlikely winter destination.
Tourists have flocked to the region, eager to witness the rare phenomenon and capture the snow-kissed landscapes. For many, the frost-covered vistas of Similipal and Koida have revealed an enchanting new side of Odisha, making it a hotspot for winter travelers as long as the cold wave continues.