Articles
Nayagarh lies in the scenic hills of Odisha and nurtures fertile valleys along with a rich cultural heritage.
Located towards the west of the district of Puri, Nayagarh borders the Cuttack district to the north, the Phulbani district to the west, the Ganjam district to the south, and the Khurda district to the east. The present district of Nayagarh came into existence on October 2, 1992. The district lies between 19° 54′ to 20° 32′ North latitude and 84° 29′ to 85° 27′ East longitude, covering an area of 3890 sq. km. This district lies in the hilly ranges in the west, and its northeastern parts form a small, well-cultivated, fertile valley where small streams intersect the land. This district stands at a higher altitude than sea level and remains above the flood level. The river Mahanadi flows along the eastern boundary. The district carries high temperatures in hot months and cooler temperatures in winter.
Kantilo, on the bank of the river Mahanadi, stands as a popular place. It contains a large bazaar and carries on a considerable trade in cotton, sugar, various clothes, and grain. Nayagarh has always served as a recruiting center for industrial labor in Burma and elsewhere, and during the past ten years, it has probably gained slightly on the balance migration; however, it has not done so to the same extent as most of the other states in this group.
Kantilo is famous for brass works. Notably, the Kansaries of Kantilo made the Millennium Talent Cup—the first of its kind in the world—which holds the distinction of becoming the world’s tallest cup for the Orissa Institute of Educational Research, Bhubaneswar. The cup measures 76″ in height, weighs 18.8 kg, and is made of golden-yellow brass metal (year 2000). Kantilo is also famous for horn works. Odagaon is famous for stone sculpture. Almost all the temple architects of Odisha hail from Odagaon.
Nayagarh lies 87 km from the State capital and 67 km from Khurda Town. Nayagarh is on NH-224, and regular bus services from Bhubaneswar, Balangir, and other places connect to the town. The nearest railhead is at Khurda Road Railway Station, 69 km away. In addition, regular interstate bus services operate from nearby towns and cities.
As in other places of the State, the facilities for staying, such as lodging and accommodations, are not of very high standards, but good and affordable hotels are available. The range of hotels and food facilities at Nayagarh always suits all classes of people and travelers.