Let’s explore the districts of Odisha; The state of Odisha is home to several beautiful and diverse districts, each with its own unique attractions and cultural heritage. From the stunning natural beauty of the Koraput district to the rich cultural heritage of the Puri district, there is something to offer for everyone in the state of Odisha.
Some of the most popular districts in Odisha include Khorda, which is known for its beautiful temples and natural wonders; Malkangiri, which is home to stunning waterfalls and dense forests; and Mayurbhanj, which is famous for its tribal communities and beautiful wildlife sanctuaries. These districts contribute the most to Odisha Tourism.
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, the districts of Odisha are also known for their friendly locals and delicious cuisine. The state is famous for its delicious seafood dishes, such as crab curry and prawn fry, as well as its sweet and savoury snacks, such as rasgulla and Dalma.
The 30 Districts of Odisha
There are 30 districts in Odisha. They are:
| Angul | Cuttack | Jagatsinghapur |
| Balangir | Deogarh | Jajpur |
| Baleswar | Dhenkanal | Jharsuguda |
| Bargarh | Gajapati | Kalahandi |
| Bhadrak | Ganjam | Kandhamal |
| Boudh | Kendrapara | Kendujhar (Keonjhar) |
| Khordha | Koraput | Malkangiri |
| Mayurbhanj | Nabarangpur | Nayagarh |
| Nuapada | Puri | Rayagada |
| Sambalpur | Sonepur | Sundargarh |
District-wise Population data for Odisha State
As per Census 2011, the District-wise Population data for Odisha State:
| Name | No of households | Persons | Males | Females | Area (In sq. km) | Population per sq. km. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bargarh | 370,308 | 1,481,255 | 749,161 | 732,094 | 5837.00 | 254 |
| Jharsuguda | 136,061 | 579,505 | 296,690 | 282,815 | 2114.00 | 274 |
| Sambalpur | 249,597 | 1,041,099 | 526,877 | 514,222 | 6624.00 | 157 |
| Debagarh | 75,452 | 312,520 | 158,230 | 154,290 | 2940.00 | 106 |
| Sundargarh | 479,109 | 2,093,437 | 1,061,147 | 1,032,290 | 9712.00 | 216 |
| Kendujhar | 405,272 | 1,801,733 | 906,487 | 895,246 | 8303.00 | 217 |
| Mayurbhanj | 586,253 | 2,519,738 | 1,256,213 | 1,263,525 | 10418.00 | 242 |
| Baleshwar | 533,001 | 2,320,529 | 1,185,787 | 1,134,742 | 3806.00 | 610 |
| Bhadrak | 306,333 | 1,506,337 | 760,260 | 746,077 | 2505.00 | 601 |
| Kendrapara | 321,934 | 1,440,361 | 717,814 | 722,547 | 2644.00 | 545 |
| Jagatsinghapur | 261,307 | 1,136,971 | 577,865 | 559,106 | 1668.00 | 682 |
| Cuttack | 579,170 | 2,624,470 | 1,352,760 | 1,271,710 | 3932.00 | 667 |
| Jajapur | 407,851 | 1,827,192 | 926,034 | 901,158 | 2899.00 | 630 |
| Dhenkanal | 279,364 | 1,192,811 | 612,593 | 580,218 | 4452.00 | 268 |
| Anugul | 297,050 | 1,273,821 | 655,718 | 618,103 | 6375.00 | 200 |
| Nayagarh | 228,315 | 962,789 | 502,636 | 460,153 | 3890.00 | 248 |
| Khordha | 494,212 | 2,251,673 | 1,167,137 | 1,084,536 | 2813.00 | 800 |
| Puri | 367,269 | 1,698,730 | 865,380 | 833,350 | 3479.00 | 488 |
| Ganjam | 758,267 | 3,529,031 | 1,779,218 | 1,749,813 | 8206.00 | 430 |
| Gajapati | 128,523 | 577,817 | 282,882 | 294,935 | 4325.00 | 134 |
| Kandhamal | 172,022 | 733,110 | 359,945 | 373,165 | 8021.00 | 91 |
| Baudh | 106,961 | 441,162 | 221,625 | 219,537 | 3098.00 | 142 |
| Subarnapur | 151,136 | 610,183 | 311,312 | 298,871 | 2337.00 | 261 |
| Balangir | 414,749 | 1,648,997 | 830,097 | 818,900 | 6575.00 | 251 |
| Nuapada | 152,210 | 610,382 | 301,962 | 308,420 | 3852.00 | 158 |
| Kalahandi | 401,251 | 1,576,869 | 787,101 | 789,768 | 7920.00 | 199 |
| Rayagada | 226,144 | 967,911 | 471,960 | 495,951 | 7073.00 | 137 |
| Nabarangapur | 273,423 | 1,220,946 | 604,812 | 616,134 | 5291.00 | 231 |
| Koraput | 337,677 | 1,379,647 | 678,809 | 700,838 | 8807.00 | 157 |
| Malkangiri | 137,599 | 613,192 | 303,624 | 309,568 | 5791.00 | 106 |
1. Angul
Anugul district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Saptarshi Temple, which is said to have been built by the legendary King Ashoka.
The district is also home to the Satkosia Gorge, the meandering Mahanadi flowing closely amidst, beautiful hills from here the mightiest gorge of India, 22 km long. It is acclaimed as one of the world’s most enchanting sports. The place is ideal for boating, angling, and adventure. The forest and hills around the village have varieties of fauna to fascinate the visitors.
A Gharial crocodile sanctuary set up here has enhanced the importance of the sport.Tikarpada is 58 Kms away from Angul. Angul can be reached either by bus or by train. Tikrapada is connected by a good road facility to Angul.
The people of the Angul district are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. They are hardworking and industrious, with agriculture being the main source of livelihood for many of them. The district is also home to several small-scale industries, including textiles and handicrafts.
2. Balangir
Balangir district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Patneswari Temple, which is said to have been built in the 12th century. .
Apart from Someswar Siva temple, and Indralat temple, 64 Yoginis placed in a circular base at Ranipur Jharial in Bangomunda Block , architectural excellence and religious cult in the ancient days of the district have left indelible marks till date in Chandimandir of Saintala, Someswar and Pataneswari Temple of Patnagarh, Harishankar temple at Harishankar, with the temple of Gods and Goddesses at Jogisarda, Kagaon, Surda, Khujenpali, Ranipali and at many other places.
Nuakhai is the most famous festival of this area. Apart from this Bhaijintia, Puojintia, Puspuni, Laxmi puja etc are observed in the nook & corner of the district with great fanfare and enthusiasm.
The Muslim and Christian community also celebrate their festival in a similar way.
3. Baleswar
Balasore district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Chandaneswar Temple, which is said to have been built in the 8th century. The district is also home to the Soro River, which is a popular tourist spot and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Baleswar is famous for Talasari–Udaypur Beach. The long stretches of sandy beaches with red crabs and whistling casuarinas at Talsari-Udaypur beach attract tourists. Tourists can enjoy the marine drive from Talsari to Udaypur sea beach (3 km) in a cool and calm atmosphere. The sunrise and sunset at Talsari and Udaypur beach is really pleasant scenery for nature lovers.
4. Bargarh
Bargarh district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Patharasini of Arjunda and Nrusinghanath Temple.
Nrusinghanath Temple is a famous visiting place of the district, which belonged to the Borasambar Kingdom of the past now known as the Padampur Sub-division. It is 150 km far from the district headquarters. The temple of Sri Nrusinghanath is situated at the bottom of Gandhamardan Mountain which is approximately 3234 feet high. Baijaldev, the 8th Chouhan King of Patna had built the temple.
An inscription on one of the stone walls of the temple speaks of the history related to its construction. In the temple which is surrounded on all sides by incredible natural beauty, Lord Vishnu is worshipped as Marjara Keshari. The Govt. of Odisha has accorded it the status of a tourist spot to this place.
5. Bhadrak
Bhadrak district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Dhamara Lighthouse, which is said to have been built in the 19th century.
Bhadrak is also famous for Bhitarakanika national park. Bhitara Kanika was under the jurisdiction of the erstwhile Kanika Estate. It is covered with deep mangrove forests and saline rivers and was declared a sanctuary on 21.04.1975. It is a world-famous place for natural crocodile breeding. Located in the estuarial region of Brahmani-Baitarani, in the northeastern place of Kendrapara districts, the national park covers an area of 672 sq km of mangrove forests and wetlands. Crossed by a thick network of brooks with the Bay of Bengal on the eas
One of the most interesting things about the Bhadrak district is its rich culinary culture. The district is known for its delicious seafood, with dishes like prawn curry and crab curry being particularly popular. Visitors to the district can also try other local specialities like Dalma (a lentil-based dish) and rasagola, a type of sweet made from cottage cheese.
6. Boudh
Boudh district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Maa Samalei Temple and Tambidarh & Salki Dam.
Boudh District is also famous for Latajharan Waterfall. Latajharan waterfall in the Boudh District, around 110 km away from the city of Boudh. Popular amongst locals and travellers as a picnic spot. The cool and calm environs around the waterfall provide a relaxing time for travellers where they can also capture the beautiful waterfall with their camera lens.
7. Cuttack
Cuttack district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Katak Chandi Temple, which is located nearby the banks of the Mahanadi River but in the city centre.. The district is also home to the Barabati Fort, which is a popular tourist spot and offers a glimpse into the district’s rich history.
The people of the Cuttack district are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. They are hardworking and industrious, with agriculture being the main source of livelihood for many of them. The district is also home to several small-scale industries, including textiles and handicrafts.
One of the most interesting things about Cuttack district is its rich culinary culture. The district is known for its delicious food, with dishes like Pitha (a type of sweet cake) and Chhena poda (a type of sweet made from cottage cheese) being particularly popular. Visitors to the district can also try other local specialities like Rasagola, a type of sweet made from cottage cheese.
8. Deogarh
Deogarh district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Katasar Ghat.
Katasar Ghat is around 45 KM from Deogarh on the high way from Deogarh to Angul. It is under Kankarkhol reserved forest area. The place is surrounded by dense forest. At the top of the ghat, there is a temple of Goddess “Banadurga” and a temple of Lord Shiva. A natural stream is flowing inside the temple premises. The area is quite peaceful and attracts visitors for its spiritual atmosphere.
The people of the Deogarh district are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. They are hardworking and industrious, with agriculture being the main source of livelihood for many of them. The district is also home to several small-scale industries, including textiles and handicrafts.
Deogarh is the least populous district of Odisha with a population of just 312,520.
9. Dhenkanal
Dhenkanal district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Kapilash Temple.
The loftiest peak of Kapilas range enshrines the temple of Lord Shiva, i.e. Chandrasekhar, at a height of about 457 meters. The place is identified with Kailash, the legendary abode of Lord Shiva. A flight of 1,351 steps and a ghat road leads to the temple. Thousands of devout souls throng to Kapilas on Mahasivaratri, the night consecrated to Lord Shiva, in the month of February-March. The hill has several caves as well as the ruins of a mediaeval fort which are regularly visited by pilgrims.
10. Gajapati
Gajapati district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Mahendragiri.
The magnificent Mahendragiri hill stands as the dosimali stone of the provinces of Andhra and Odisha and the trisimali of the Ganjam and Gajapati districts of Odisha and Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. It is the second-highest peak measuring 4923 feet and the highest peak Singharaj 4976 feet and the third Devagiri 4534 feet. It is situated at latitude 18° 24’ and in the middle of the Eastern ghats.
Mahendragiri is 51 kms to the south-West of Brahmapur, 26 km from the sea. It is approachable at Tumba from Brahmapur side, at Burkhat from the Parlakhemundi side and at Jangalapadu from Srikakulam side. Mahendragiri is important from mythological, religious, historical, archeological, ethnical, ecological and tourism points of view.
Gajapati district is also famous for Gandahati Waterfall. Gandahati is one of the muthas of Paralakhemundi Zamindari. The name suggests that once it was inhabited by a large elephant population, now no more. The place is important for a beautiful waterfall. Gajapati district has a few well-known waterfalls.
Ganjam district is the most populous district of Odisha.
11. Ganjam
Ganjam district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Bhairabi Temple. The place is named after the presiding deity Goddess Bhairabi at the remote village Mantridi. Bhairabi nowadays has become an important Shakti Pitha. Tourists from all most all parts of Odisha as well as northern Andhra Pradesh visit this holy shrine every day.
Ganjam District is also famous for TAPTAPANI – A Hot Water Spring. It is famous for a perennial hot spring of Medicinal Sulfuric Water which is located on the State Highways that connect Berhampur with Western Odisha. Being surrounded by a cluster of hills and thick forests, the serenity of nature at Taptapani is added by wonderful sights of sunrise, the sun set moonlit night, tribal dance and music, chirps of birds and sight of wild animals
12. Jagatsinghapur
Jagatsinghapur district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Maa Sarala Temple. Believed as a synthesis of the divine figure of Durga and Saraswati, the culture of Sarala is an amalgamation of three principal Hindu cults namely Vedic, Tantrik and Vaishnavite. It is one of the eight most famous Shakta shrines of Odisha. The main idol, carved out of stone is of eight-armed keeping her right foot on the lion in Mahinsha Mardini posture. Constructed by the legendary Bhauma Kings in the 8th Century
Jagatsinghpur District is also famous for Paradeep Port. It is a major seaport of India for trade activities. The enchanting beauty of the sea, a wonderful sea beach & marine drive, beautiful creeks, estuaries and evergreen forests of estuarian islands of the river Mahanadi, make the place a major tourist attraction. Observing the movement of small marine crafts and the giant ore carries adds to the pleasure of the tourist.
13. Jajpur
Jajpur district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Biraja Temple, which is said to have been built in the 11th century.
Jajpur district is also famous for the Archaeological museum at Ratnagiri is one of the important site museums of the Archaeological Survey of India, built on the northern crest of the Ratnagiri village, of District Jajpur in Odisha.
14. Jharsuguda
Jharsuguda district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Chandi Mandir. It is located about 30 km from Jharsuguda Railway Station at Brajarajnagar. Goddess Chandi is worshipped here and the Chandipitha is located inside a natural rock cave on the banks of river IB
Jharsuguda is also famous for the Koilighughar waterfall. The Koilighughar waterfall is situated 55 km away from Jharsuguda in the Lakhanpur block near the village Kushmelbahal. It is a picturesque beauty spot with a Sylvan backdrop. A rivulet named Ahiraj takes its origin from the Chhuikhanch forest and while flowing through a rocky belt falls from a height of 200ft creating the waterfall of the Koilighughar.
15. Kalahandi
Kalahandi district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Bhawanipatna Temple, which is said to have been built in the 12th century. The district is also home to the Dokarichanchara Waterfall, which is a popular tourist spot and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Dokarichanchara is famous due to its two famous waterfalls, Dokaridara and Bhanyaraghumara (or Bhairav dhar). In addition, the historical Gudahandi cave nearby it makes this place more prominent. The Gudahandi cave was named due to its appearance as a jaggery (guda) pot (handi).
16. Kandhamal
Kandhamal district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Barala Devi Temple. The district is also home to Daringbadi which is often referred to as the “Kashmir of Odisha”.
Daringbadi is a vast area at the height of about 3000 ft above sea level, it is an ideal summer resort which is popularly named as “Kashmir of Odisha”. The place is gifted with natural bounties such as pine jungles, coffee gardens and beautiful valleys. It is the only place of Odisha that experiences snow fall during winter.
17. Kendrapara
Kendrapara district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Shri Baldev Jew temple. Shri Baldev Jew temple is situated in Ichhapur, 5kms from Kendrapara Town. Here one can see the beautiful temple with other small temples in its side exhibiting the architectural marvel of ancient Odisha. Lord Baladev is the main deity worshipped in the temple along with his brother and sister.
Kendrapara District is also home to Bhitarakanika National Park . It is covered with deep mangrove forests and saline rivers and was declared a sanctuary on 21.04.1975. It is a world-famous place for natural crocodile breeding. Located in the estuarial region of Brahmani-Baitarani, in the northeastern place of Kendrapara districts, the national park covers an area of 672 sq km of mangrove forests and wetlands.
Crossed by a thick network of brooks with the Bay of Bengal on the east, Bhitar Kanika is home to over 215 species of birds, including winter migratory birds from Europe and Central-Asia as the park provides a congenial atmosphere and serene, pollution-free environment, birds migrate thousands of miles to Bhitar Kanika to escape the harsh winter in Ladakh, ManoSarovar , Himalayan region, Siberia, Kazaksthan , Mongolia , Russia , Afghanistan, Iraq, Northen Asia and some central European countries.
Overall, Kendrapara district is a fascinating place with a lot to offer. Whether you’re interested in its history and culture, or just looking to enjoy some delicious local food, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Odisha.
18. Kendujhar (Keonjhar)
Kendujhar district, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a place with a rich history and culture. The district is home to several temples, including the famous Murga Mahadev Temple. Murga Mahadev Temple stands majestically at the foot of Thakurani Hills is an important tourist spot in the district. A picturesque perennial spring of Thakurani Hills with the lush green forest has gifted a gorgeous waterfall to the natural lovers which flows nearby the temple area facilitating holy bath to the devotees.
Kendujhar District is also home to Bhimakunda Waterfall. The majestic Baitarani river provides two most beautiful and scary waterfalls called Sanakunda & Badakunda to nature lovers. The waterfall has a terrific characteristic of imparting an awesome experience to the visitors due to the large vertical-shaped gorge & speeding current which makes the environment smokey.
The further huge roaring sound of the waterfall makes the place most interesting among tourists. This waterfall is considered as a most sacred place in a religious point of view. Local people gather here during the annual celebration of Makar Sankranti in large numbers. Mythology is that Pandavas were staying sometime here during their religious expedition.
19. Khordha
Khorda district, located in the state of Odisha, is a fascinating region with a rich history and culture. The district is named after its headquarters, Khordha, which was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Kalinga.
Bhubaneswar which is the capital of Odisha is part of the Khordha District.
Khorda district is known for its beautiful temples, including the famous Lingaraj Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is one of the oldest and most important shrines in the region, and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.
Khordha district is also home to the best Tourist Places in Odisha like Chillika lake, Dhaulli, Khandagir & Udayagiri caves and Nandan Kanan Zoo.
Overall, Khorda district is a unique and fascinating region with a rich history and culture. Its beautiful temples and natural wonders make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state of Odisha.
20. Koraput
Koraput district is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Koraput, which is situated at the confluence of the Machhakunda and Kolab rivers.
Koraput is the most scenic district of Odisha.
Koraput district is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the Duduma Waterfall, the famous Gupteswar Temple and Caves, and the beautiful forests of the Niyamgiri Hills. These natural wonders are a must-see for anyone visiting the region and provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Koraput district is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The district is home to several important temples, such as the Hatipathar Temple and the Jagannath Temple, which are known for their beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The district is also home to several tribal communities, each with its own unique customs and traditions.
Odisha’s highest peak Deomali is in the Koraput district which attracts a lot of tourists in winter.
Overall, the Koraput district is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer everyone. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state of Odisha.
21. Malkangiri
Malkangiri district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and unique region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Malkangiri, which is situated at the confluence of the Sabari and Sileru rivers.
Malkangiri district is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the beautiful Chitrakonda Reservoir, and the dense forests of the Malkangiri Hill Range. These natural wonders are a must-see for anyone visiting the region and provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
In addition to its natural beauty, Malkangiri district is also known for BONDA HILL which is located at a distance of 80 Kilometers from the District headquarters and comes under Khairput Block. This is the living place of Bondas, one of the primitive tribal communities. It is surrounded by dense hilly forests.
The Bondas of this place even now remain naked, and it is believed that they were cursed by Goddess Sita, as they laughed at her while she was bathing in a kind, which is named Sita Kunda at Bonda Hill. There is one specific festival called “Patkhanda Vatra” at Mudulipada celebrated in the month of January by the Bondas in which they worship a sword. They believe that this sword belongs to Pandavas.
Overall, Malkangiri district is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer everyone. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state of Odisha.
22. Mayurbhanj
Mayurbhanj district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Baripada, which is situated at the foot of the picturesque Rajghati Hill.
Mayurbhanj district is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the beautiful Joranda Waterfall, the breathtaking Baisipali Wildlife Sanctuary, and the dense forests of the Similipal National Park. These natural wonders are a must-see for anyone visiting the region and provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Mayurbhanj district is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The district is home to several important temples, such as the Khiching Temple and the Siddha Bhairavi Temple, which are known for their beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The district is also home to several tribal communities, each with its own unique customs and traditions.
Overall, Mayurbhanj district is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer for everyone. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state of Odisha.
23. Nabarangpur
Nabarangpur district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Nabarangpur, which is situated at the foot of the picturesque Chandragiri Hill.
Nabarangpur district is home to Chandan Dhara waterfall which is a natural waterfall situated in Jharigam Block 90 KM away from Nabarangpur. The place is also remarkable for a natural Shiva Lingam. Chandan Dhara is an ideal location for outings and picnics.
24. Nayagarh
Nayagarh district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Nayagarh, which is situated at the confluence of the Mahanadi and Kathajodi rivers.
Nayagarh district is home to several stunning natural attractions like Baramul village which is prominent due to the magnificent Mahandi gorge on the banks of which it is situated. From Sunakania hills up to Barmul, the course of the river is known as the Satakosia Ganda (Gorge), having a water spread of about 22 km.
Kuturi which is Just 8 kms from Baramul, inside the Mahanadi Wildlife Division Sanctuary, is a place called Kuturi which houses the Habitat Development Centre for facilitating the natural breeding of wild animals. This area contains a pond, salt lake, fodder variety Napier grass and an orchard with varieties of indigenous decorative and medicinal plants. There are cottages, and watch towers from where one can watch the free movement and activities of animals during nights.
25. Nuapada
Nuapada district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Nuapada, which is situated at the confluence of the Tel and the Maniyari rivers.
Nuapada district is home to several stunning natural attractions, including Pataleswar Temple, and Budhikomna. Budhikomna houses the famous temple of Pataleswar made of bricks in the Pancharatha style unique in the state. A connoisseur of art and architecture finds immense pleasure in observing the different facets of this place. It is also a popular pilgrim centre in the locality, but due to lack of minimum infrastructure facility tourists as well as pilgrims suffer a lot.
Patalganga is a nice spot in the bosom of nature with a perennial spring, the water of which is considered as sacred as that of the holy Ganges. Local people perform their obsequies downstream. Legend would have it that Rama, Laxman and Sita visited the spot during their exile where Sita felt thirsty. Laxman pierced the ground with his arrow occasioning the birth of the spring. On the day of solar eclipse and lunar eclipse. People here gather in large numbers to take their baths in the holy water.
26. Puri
Puri district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Puri, which is situated on the Bay of Bengal and is home to the famous Jagannath Temple.
Puri district is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the beautiful Konark Sun Temple and RAMACHANDI Temple.
RAGHURAJPUR Village is also famous for the Gotipua dance. Near Raghurajpur is another better-known destination is DandaSahi, which has the potential of becoming a heritage village of tomorrow. A small village of about 50 households, Dandasahi is on the side of the historical road, through which Sri Chaitanya had travelled to Puri. The Raghurajpur village, an idyllic setting on the Southern bank of the river Bhargavi, is surrounded by coconut, palm, mango, jackfruit, groves & other tropical trees
In addition to its natural beauty, the Puri district is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The district is home to several important temples, such as the Jagannath Temple and the Raghurajpur Heritage Village, which are known for their beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The district is also home to several tribal communities, each with its own unique customs and traditions.
Puri attracts tourists from the world over during the Jagannath Rath Yatra Festival.
Overall, Puri district is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer for everyone. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state of Odisha.
27. Rayagada
Rayagada district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Rayagada, which is situated at the foot of the picturesque Nagavali Hill.
Rayagada district is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the beautiful Kalyansinghpur Temple, the breathtaking Padmapuram Gardens, and the dense forests of the Kalyansinghpur Wildlife Sanctuary. These natural wonders are a must-see for anyone visiting the region, and provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.
In addition to its natural beauty, Rayagada district is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The district is home to several important temples, such as the MAA MAJHIGHARIANI TEMPLE and the LAXMINARAYAN TEMPLE, which are known for their beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The district is also home to several tribal communities, each with their own unique customs and traditions.
Overall, Rayagada district is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer everyone. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state of Odisha.
28. Sambalpur
Sambalpur district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Sambalpur, which is situated on the banks of the river Mahanadi.
Sambalpur district is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the beautiful Samaleswari Temple, the breathtaking Hirakud Dam, and the dense forests of the Sambalpur Wildlife Sanctuary. These natural wonders are a must-see for anyone visiting the region, and provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Sambalpur district is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The district is home to several important temples, such as the Samaleswari Temple and the Sambhajinagar Temple, which are known for their beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The district is also home to several tribal communities, each with its own unique customs and traditions.
Overall, Sambalpur district is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer everyone. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state of Odisha.
29. Sonepur
Sonepur district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Sonepur, which is situated on the banks of the river Mahanadi.
Sonepur district is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the beautiful Sonepur Cattle Fair, the breathtaking Harishankar Temple, and the dense forests of the Brahmani Wildlife Sanctuary. These natural wonders are a must-see for anyone visiting the region, and provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.
In addition to its natural beauty, Sonepur district is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The district is home to several important temples, such as the Sonepur Cattle Fair and the Harishankar Temple, which are known for their beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The district is also home to several tribal communities, each with their own unique customs and traditions.
Overall, Sonepur district is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer for everyone. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state of Odisha.
30. Sundargarh
Sundargarh district, located in the state of Odisha, is a beautiful and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after its headquarters, Sundargarh, which is situated at the confluence of the rivers Sankh and Koel.
Sundargarh district is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the beautiful Vindhyavasini Temple, the breathtaking Rourkela Steel Plant, and the dense forests of the Baphlimali Wildlife Sanctuary. These natural wonders are a must-see for anyone visiting the region and provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Sundargarh district is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The district is home to several important temples, such as the Vindhyavasini Temple and the Saptashati Temple, which are known for their beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The district is also home to several tribal communities, each with its own unique customs and traditions.
Overall, Sundargarh district is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer everyone. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state of Odisha.
FAQs on Districts of Odisha
How many districts were there when Odisha was formed?
When Odisha(formerly known as Orissa was formed) there were only 5 districts in the Odisha state.
Which is the largest district of Odisha?
The largest district on basis of the land area of Odisha is Sundargarh.
Which district is small in Odisha?
Having a geographical area of 1759 sq km, the Jagatsinghpur district is the smallest district in Odisha in terms of territorial location
What are the major districts of Odisha?
Some of the major districts of Odisha are Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, Angul, and Sambalpur.
What is the smallest district in Odisha by population?
The smallest district in Odisha by population is Debagarh, with a population of 552,466 according to the 2011 census.