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The district of Balangir lies in the western part of Odisha and is one of the major commercial townships of Western Odisha.
History
The district of Balangir lies in the western part of Odisha and is one of the major commercial townships of Western Odisha. Balaram Deo, the brother of Narasimha Deo, the 19th Raja of Patna, is said to have established the town of Balangir. As Balaram Deo is known to have flourished in the middle of the 16th century, the origin of the town has also been attributed to that period. However, no recorded evidence to support this has been found.
Geographical Location
The district of Balangir lies between 20º 11′ North – 21º 05′ North Latitude and 82º 41′ East – 83º 40′ East Longitude. It is bordered in the North-west by the Gandhamardhan Hills, a name of Ramayan fame, the North- east by the rock-infested Mahanadi. The district is bounded by Sonepur in the East, Nuapara in the West, Kalahandi in the South, and Bargarh in the North. The district is situated in the valley of rivers like the Ang and Tel. It is nature’s cradle for tribes like Kutia, Khonds, Binjhals, and Gonds. The district is famous throughout the centuries for the Bhulias and Kastias, master craftsmen who work excellent motifs on cotton and tussar fabrics.
How to reach?
Like all the other districts of the State, Balangir is also well connected by road and rail services with the other parts of the State and neighboring States. The nearest airports are at Raipur and Bhubaneswar, at a distance of 184.2 km and 263 km respectively.
Where to stay?
Although the availability of big star hotels are negligent in the district, accommodation facilities are equivalent to those in other districts of the State. Several good hotels are available in Balangir.
Fairs and Festivals
Many fairs and festivals are celebrated in the district with great devotion and joy, such as Sivaratri, Patakhanda Jatra, Nrushinga Chaturdasi Mela, Ratha Jatra, Kandao Jatra, Nuakhai, and many others.