Map of Odisha
Odisha, formerly known as Orissa, is one of the 28 states in India, located on the eastern coast of the country. It is bordered by the Bay of Bengal to the east, West Bengal to the north and northeast, Jharkhand to the north, Andhra Pradesh to the south, and Chhattisgarh to the west. The capital city of Odisha is Bhubaneswar, which is also its largest city. Odisha is divided into 30 districts. The districts of Odisha are divided into three administrative divisions: the Northern Division, the Southern Division, and the Central Division. Each division is made up of ten districts. This division has done for better administration and revenue collection.
Geography
The state is known for its diverse landscapes, including a long coastline, rolling plains, and lush forests. The Bay of Bengal stretches along the eastern border, providing stunning beaches and a wealth of marine life.
Coastal Odisha
The eastern coastline of Odisha spans approximately 480 kilometers, making it the ideal destination for beach enthusiasts. Some of the famous beaches include Puri Beach, Konark Beach, and Chandipur Beach. Puri Beach is not only a popular tourist spot but also a religious one, as it hosts the annual Rath Yatra, a chariot festival dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
Western Odisha
The western part of the state is characterized by the Chota Nagpur Plateau, which is rich in minerals and forest resources. You’ll find numerous wildlife sanctuaries and tribal communities in this region, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and anthropologists.
Central Odisha
The central part of Odisha is a blend of forests, hills, and fertile plains. It’s home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Simlipal National Park and Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, which are known for their rich biodiversity.
Northern Odisha
The northern region is where you’ll find the Mahanadi River basin, which is the lifeline of the state. This area is known for its lush greenery and is a vital agricultural region for Odisha.
Administrative Divisions
Odisha is divided into 30 districts, each with its unique culture, traditions, and attractions. Here are some of the notable Cities and town:
- Bhubaneswar: The state capital and a city known for its modern infrastructure and ancient temples.
- Cuttack: Famous for its historical significance, especially the Barabati Fort and the silver filigree work.
- Puri: A major pilgrimage destination, home to the famous Jagannath Temple and Puri Beach.
- Konark: Known for the iconic Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Sambalpur: Located in western Odisha, it’s a hub for Sambalpuri textiles and the Sambalpuri dance form.
Major Cities
While we’ve highlighted a few districts, let’s take a closer look at some of the major cities in Odisha:
Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, the capital city, is often referred to as the “Temple City of India” due to its numerous ancient temples. The Lingaraj Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most revered. Apart from its religious significance, Bhubaneswar is also known for its modern infrastructure, educational institutions, and booming IT sector.
Cuttack
Cuttack, often called the “Silver City,” is renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage. It is famous for its silver filigree work, ancient forts, and a vibrant art scene.
Puri
Puri is a city with a deep spiritual connection, thanks to the Jagannath Temple. Every year, millions of devotees visit this city to be part of the Rath Yatra festival. Besides its religious importance, Puri boasts a beautiful beach and an array of traditional Odia art and crafts.
Rourkela
Rourkela is the largest city in western Odisha and is known for its steel plants and educational institutions. It offers a mix of urban life and proximity to natural beauty, including the Vedavyas Temple and the Indira Gandhi Park.
Berhampur
Located in southern Odisha, Berhampur is a bustling city known for trade and commerce. It’s the gateway to many picturesque tourist destinations in southern Odisha.
Tourist Attractions
Odisha is not just about its cities and geography; it’s also a treasure trove of tourist attractions that cater to a variety of interests.
Temples
- Jagannath Temple: Located in Puri, it’s one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and an architectural marvel.
- Konark Sun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its exquisite stone carvings.
- Lingaraj Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple in Bhubaneswar is a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Simlipal National Park: Known for its biodiversity and home to tigers, elephants, and various
species. 2. Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for crocodiles, birds, and mangrove forests.
- Nandankanan Zoological Park: A wildlife sanctuary and zoo in Bhubaneswar, known for its white tigers and other exotic animals.
Beaches
- Puri Beach: Famous for its golden sands, spiritual significance, and the annual Rath Yatra.
- Chandipur Beach: Known for its unique feature of the sea receding up to 5 kilometers during low tide.
- Gopalpur Beach: A serene beach destination offering relaxation and water sports.
Historical Sites
- Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: Ancient rock-cut caves showcasing Jain culture and art.
- Barabati Fort: A historic fort in Cuttack, known for its moat and ancient architecture.
- Dhauli Shanti Stupa: A peace pagoda built near Bhubaneswar, commemorating the Kalinga War and Emperor Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism.
Handicrafts and Textiles
- Sambalpuri Textiles: Known for its intricate and vibrant handwoven textiles.
- Pattachitra Art: Traditional Odia painting style, depicting stories from mythology.
Cuisine
Odisha’s cuisine is a delightful journey in itself. It’s a blend of flavors, featuring a variety of rice dishes, fish curries, and delectable sweets. Some must-try dishes include the famous Dalma, Pakhala, and the sweet delight of Rasagola.
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through the map of Odisha, we’ve only scratched the surface of what this beautiful state has to offer. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a spiritual seeker, Odisha provides an enriching experience that’s waiting to be explored. The map of Odisha is not just a geographical representation; it’s a treasure map guiding you to the cultural, natural, and historical gems that await your discovery.
So, the next time you plan a trip to India, make sure to include Odisha on your itinerary. This diverse and culturally rich state is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for its unique charm