Built across the Sankha River in the late 1950s to supply water to the steel plant, Mandira Dam is now a popular weekend escape about 30 km from Rourkela. The reservoir is large and pretty, with wooded hills running down to the water, and a long bund where families come to watch the sunset.
There are a few snack stalls but otherwise no facilities, so bring your own. Bird watching is good in the cooler months. The road in is fine for a car or auto and a half-day trip from town is enough.