Rourkela – The Steel City of Odisha
Rourkela, located in the northern part of the state of Odisha, is a beautiful city that is surrounded by hills and forests. The city is known for its steel plant, which is one of the largest in the country. However, there is much more to this city than just steel production.
After Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, Rourkela is Odisha’s third-largest urban agglomeration. The city is also known as Ispat Nagar or Steel City of Odisha. Steel Authority of India Limited’s Rourkela Steel Plant (SAIL),one of the largest integrated steel plants was built with German assistance. It is categorized as a Tier-2 City. It is located in Sundargarh district which is 340 kilometers from the state capital of Bhubaneshwar.
| District | Sundargarh |
| Area | 200 km2 |
| Population | 600,000 |
| Telephone code | 0661 |
| Vehicle registration | OD-14 |
History of Rourkela
The history of Rourkela dates back to the prehistoric times. The city has been ruled by various dynasties including the Mughals, Marathas, and the British. It was only in 1955 that the city came into the limelight when the government decided to set up a steel plant here.
Attractions in Rourkela
Rourkela has a number of attractions that are worth visiting. The Hanuman Vatika, which is a large park, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The park has a number of temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman and other deities. The park is also home to a large statue of Lord Hanuman, which is the tallest in the country.
Another popular attraction in Rourkela is the Mandira Dam, which is located about 25 km from the city. The dam is a popular picnic spot and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.
For those interested in history and culture, the Rourkela Steel Plant Museum is a must-visit. The museum showcases the history of the steel plant and the role it played in the development of the city.
Food in Rourkela
The food in Rourkela is a blend of Odia and Bengali cuisine. Some of the popular dishes include fish curry, mutton curry, and prawn curry. The city is also famous for its street food, which includes chaat, samosas, and jalebis.
Getting to Rourkela
Rourkela is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is about 325 km away. The city is also well-connected by rail, with several trains running from major cities across the country.
Rourkela may be known as the Steel City, but it has much more to offer. From its natural beauty to its rich history and culture, Rourkela is a city that is worth exploring. So, if you are planning a trip to Odisha, make sure to add Rourkela to your itinerary.