Mayurbhanj has the distinction of being the largest
district of Orissa. Once a prominent kingdom of India, Mayurbhanj has
still kept its importance through a number of tourist attractions. On
the historical date 1st January 1949, when Mayurbhanj got amalgamated
with Orissa, it was recognized as a district. If you are planning to
travel to Orissa, make sure to add the district in your package, as it
has got many interesting places to visit. It would not be an
exaggeration to say that Mayurbhanj has got a heavenly charisma.
In the company of Budhabalanga River, Barehipani Waterfall and
Meghasana Mountain, the district actually appears like a celestial
place. Apart from its natural beauty, it is also known for its horn
works, stone & clay works, Tussar silk, jute mills and spinning
mills. Mayurbhanj is a living testimony to the human history of over
1000 years. Boasting a rich mineral base, it also has profusion of lush
green vegetation, different fauna and a rich cultural heritage. Scroll
down to know about the places of interest in the district.
Baripada
Baripada is a fascinating town in the expanse of Orissa. Being the
headquarters of Mayurbhanj district, the town has all the necessary
elements for a lovely holiday. Infact, your tour to Orissa would be
incomplete if you don't travel to Baripada. Located at the
foothills of the Similipal mountain range, Baripada is the best place to
access the whole region of Mayurbhanj. More
Simlipal National Park
An erstwhile hunting ground of the royalty, Simlipal National Park is
amongst the earliest parks to be taken under the 'Project Tiger'
of India. The park has been acknowledged many times for different
reasons. In 1956, it was officially selected as a Tiger Reserve. More
Khiching
Located at a distance of 150 kms from Baripada, Khiching is a town
known for its ancient temples. It had once served as the capital of
Bhanja rulers also. One of the major attractions of Khiching is a temple
dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, known for its amazing stone carvings.
Other places of interest are Chaulakunj (for its monolithic pillars) and
Biratgarh (for its museum).
Kichakeswari Temple
Kichakeswari Temple is sited in Bahalda, the capital of Mayurbhanj
kingdom in the 14th century. It lies at a distance of 16 km from
Baripada. Dedicated to Goddess Kichakeswari, the temple is known for its
architectural beauty.
Manatri
Located at a distance of 36 kms from Baripada, Manatri is famous for
the temple of Kakharua Vaidyanath. This temple is dedicated to Lord
Shiva and boasts of a unique architectural style. One can see
inscriptions of the Mayurbhanj kings, written in Oriya, on the temple
walls. In the western side of the temple, there are remains of an
ancient fort.
Banthia Jagannath Temple
Banthia Jagannath Temple is positioned in Baripada itself. During 1863
-1867, the temple was built under the supervision of King Sri Srinath
Bhanjdeo. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath and is very famous among the
dwellers of the region.
Deokund
Deokund is a divine scenic spot, found at a distance of 65 km from
Baripada and 110 km from Baleswar. This place is an important tourist
attraction, owing to its alluring waterfalls and natural beauty. Perched
on a hill, Ambika Temple is a renowned shrine of Deokund.
Bhimkund
Situated at a distance of 40 km from Karanjia, Bhimkund is a pilgrimage
site that has a sacred pool. It is believed that Bhima (the second
Pandava) had taken a bath in this pool. Makara Festival is celebrated
here ever year, in the month of January. People usually visit this place
to behold and experience its charming beauty.
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