(From top) Eco-tourism complex at Mahavinayak temple, a rest shed on top of the hill for tourists, entrance to Mahavinayak temple and the temple gate. Telegraph pictures

Jajpur, May 23: The famous Mahavinayak temple near Chandikhol in the district is one of the major tourist attractions in the state where thousands visit every year.

The spot has become even more attractive and lively with the recent addition of an eco-tourism centre. An effort by the state forest and environment department has made this eco-tourism centre, which is a dream for many tourists, become reality.

Completed at a cost of Rs 65 lakh, the complex has been carefully constructed with a green design plan, officials said.

“The complex consists of a hill view centre, which is located at the hilltop from tourists can get a view of exquisite flora and fauna. This apart, one can have a view of Kalinga Nagar industrial town, natural beauty of Brahmani river and other beautiful views of the countryside,” said Sarat Kumar Sahu, a Bayree ranger.

“Besides, there is a trekking path of 5.5km to the hilltop. The complex also has a natural garden for butterflies. Tourists can see thousands of colourful butterflies of many rare species round the year,” he added.

“It will be the most attractive eco-tourism complex in the state,” the ranger said.

Accommodation for families of tourists, food, refreshment facilities and other basic amenities are available at the complex.

“The Mahavinayak temple is located amidst thickly wooded hills, lush green mountain and by the side of a perennial stream. This was the reason for our department to chose the spot for eco-tourism. The temple is unique where five deities — Lord Shiva, Goddess Shakti, Lord Ganesh, Lord Vishnu and Sun God — are worshiped as a single deity in a single sanctum sanctorum,” said divisional forest officer Abhimanyu Behera.

The official said the government is hoping for a heavy flow of tourists following the setting up the complex.

“The setting up of an eco-tourism complex at Mahavinayak temple will no doubt boost tourism in the entire Jajpur district where a number of Buddhist monuments are located. There was a long-standing need of such an eco-tourism complex in the district as such types of facilities are only available in few other districts of the state. Tourists will feel happy and encouraged to find such a complex which will go a long way in promoting the tourism,” he added.

The Mahavinayak temple management committee and local people are more enthusiastic following completion of the project.

“Surrounded by lovely mountains, the temple was already beautiful.

“An eco-tourism centre which was a prime need will undoubtedly give a fillip to the incoming of the tourists from the state and abroad,” said Maheswar Bal, member, Mahavinayak Development Committee.

The eco-tourism complex would boost tourist inflow to the district in the coming days, he added.