Taptapani

Taptapani is located at a distance of about 67 kilometres from Gopalpur, on the State Highways connecting Behrampore with Western Orissa. As the name suggests (Tapta means hot and Pani means water), it is primarily recognized for its hot water spring – a natural spa for rejuvenating all sorts of body aches and pains. This place is the habitat of the Dingaria Kondh tribe, Kutia Kondh tribe, Mali and the Bonda tribes. Innumerable vacationers visit this place to relish and revive in the hot spring with immense therapeutic advantages. The hot spring is composite of medicinal sulphur water. It offers excellent vistas of the rising and setting of the Sun and clear moonlit sky embroidered with twinkling stars. The place takes pride in its natural panoramic view – lush green woods, cluster of hills, tranquil surroundings with a rich endowment of flora and fauna and above all, the tribal societies dwelling in this area. The novelty of the state is truly retained by its tribal population. They continue to lead a rustic lifestyle in the lap of nature. These tribal societies embrace the faction of people who understand the meaning of living together and join hands to work together to achieve any shared interest to cater to the benefits of their society. Every society has its own set of rules with respect to business and trade. These enhance and strengthen their unity to live and toil collectively as one. The tribal groups although have undertaken various forms of odd jobs at present, yet their basic livelihood depend on hunting and cultivation. These tribal people are believed to be proficient huntsmen and run an unfettered way of life. The rituals and festivals practiced by the tribal groups are still being followed, respected and nurtured since the distant past to the present day. Although the art of performing the songs and dances differ from one clan to another, yet certain features are generally familiar to all. Their lifestyle and abode not only raise inquisitiveness among the anthropologists and sociologists, but travelers from other parts of the country and around the globe.