The Mahendragiri hill terrain FOREST ECOSYSTEM in Odishas southern district of Gajapati, in its Rayagada Block, on the Eastern Ghats, is located within east longitudes 83045 to 84045 and north latitudes 18015 to 18030. The Mahendragiri with more than 1,500 meters is the second tallest hill in Odisha after Deomali in Koraput district. The watershed of Mahendragiri hill complex drains into Rushikulya, Vamsadhara, Bahuda, Mahendratanaya river systems and numerous big and small streams.
The hilly terrain, endowed with dense tropical semi-evergreen forests, composes a unique ecological marvel in harbouring the . The Flora and Fauna here is interesting as it represents Himalayan as well as peninsular Deccan Plateau species. Because of unsustainable anthropogenic activities in the area the Population of wildlife including elephants and big cats is on the decline. Many of the plant and animal species here find their place in the IUCN Red Data Book as Threatened, Vulnerable, Endangered and Rare. Over a period of time many more species may add to the list, it is feared. In view of the fact that the ecosystem is yet potent in sustaining wildlife in the wild, immediate intervention is needed for its eco-restoration.
The hill complex is the natural habitat of the tribes including the primitive Lanjia saura, Sudha saura and Bhima saura. The other tribes include Kondh, Gond, Santal and Kolh. Their livelihood security is intricately linked to the Biodiversity and other local Resources“>Natural Resources of the hill complex.