Baripada Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Baripada in Odisha, India? Check out our comprehensive travel guide with all the information on attractions, accommodations, food, and more.


Introduction to Baripada

Baripada is a city and a municipality in Odisha state, located in the northwest region of India. The city is known for its diverse cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure tourism. Baripada is also home to the largest tribal community of Odisha – The Santhal community.

List of Places to Visit in Baripada

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Baripada has a rich cultural heritage, and visiting museums and historical places can give you a glimpse of its past. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Baripada include:

  • Mayurbhanj Palace Museum: This museum is located within the Mayurbhanj Palace complex and showcases the rich history and culture of the Mayurbhanj Kingdom.

  • Khiching Museum: The Khiching Museum is located in the Khiching Temple complex and houses a wide range of ancient sculptures, manuscripts, and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Baripada: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Baripada is located in the lap of nature, and there are several natural attractions that you must visit while you are here. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Simlipal National Park: Simlipal National Park is a vast expanse of dense forest and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including the Royal Bengal Tiger.

  • Joranda Falls: Joranda Falls is a stunning waterfall located within the Simlipal National Park.

  • Deokund: Deokund is a scenic hill station near Baripada, and it offers excellent trekking opportunities and a mesmerizing view of the surrounding valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Baripada

Baripada offers excellent opportunities for hikers and bikers with its scenic hills, dense forests, and serene trails. Some of the top hiking/biking routes include:

  • Simlipal Trek: This trek takes you through the Simlipal National Park and offers an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and spot some rare wildlife.

  • Deokund Trek: The Deokund Trek takes you through the scenic trails of Deokund and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding valleys.

Best Things to Do in Baripada: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting popular tourist attractions, there are several other things that you can do while you are in Baripada. Some of the top activities and tours to consider include:

  • Tribal Village Tour: Baripada is home to several tribal villages, and taking a tour of these villages can give you an insight into their culture and way of life.

  • Adventure Sports: Baripada offers several adventure sports, including trekking, biking, and river rafting.

Week-Long Itinerary for Baripada

Planning a week-long itinerary for Baripada can help you make the most of your visit. Here is an example itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Mayurbhanj Palace Museum and Khiching Museum
2 Explore Simlipal National Park
3 Trek to Joranda Falls
4 Explore Deokund Hill Station
5 Take a Tribal Village Tour
6 Enjoy Adventure Sports
7 Relax and unwind

Food and Drink Scene of Baripada

Must-Try Dishes

Baripada is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Chingudi Jhola: This is a spicy curry made with prawns that are commonly found in the nearby rivers.

  • Santula: Santula is a popular vegetable curry that is made with local vegetables and spices.

Local Beverages

Lassi, Tari, and Mahua are some of the popular local beverages that you should try while you are in Baripada.

Where to Stay in Baripada: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Baripada offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Some of the popular choices include:

  • Mayur Residency: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of the city and offers excellent amenities and services.

  • Simlipal Nature Camp: This is an eco-friendly resort located within the Simlipal National Park and offers a unique experience of staying amidst nature.

What to Buy in Baripada: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Baripada is known for its exquisite handicrafts, including paper mache products, terracotta items, and metal crafts. You can also shop for tribal jewelry, sarees, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Baripada

Baripada has a rich cultural heritage, and the locals have preserved their customs and traditions. The Santhal community is the largest tribal community of Odisha and is known for their unique culture, music, and dance forms.

Best Time to Visit Baripada

The best time to visit Baripada is between October to February when the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Baripada

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.

  • Try the local food and beverages.

  • Carry warm clothing during winters.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothes

  • Disrespect the customs and traditions of the locals

  • Litter the environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Baripada

Baripada is a safe city for tourists. However, it is advisable to take precautions, such as not traveling alone at night and avoiding dark and deserted alleys.

Health in Baripada

Baripada has several hospitals and healthcare centers. It is advisable to carry a first-aid kit and necessary medication with you.

Getting to Baripada: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Baripada

Bhubaneswar International Airport is the nearest airport to Baripada, located about 200 km away.

Bus Stations Near Baripada

Baripada has a well-connected bus station with regular bus services to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi or self-drive to reach Baripada.

How to Get Around in Baripada

Auto-rickshaws, buses, and taxis are the popular modes of transportation in Baripada.

Where to Go Next from Baripada: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Puri

Puri is a popular tourist destination located about 240 km away from Baripada and is known for its beautiful beaches and religious significance.

Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar is the capital city of Odisha and is located about 220 km away from Baripada. It is known for its ancient temples, modern infrastructure, and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Baripada is a hidden gem in Odisha, and visiting this city can be a unique and memorable experience. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure tourism, Baripada has something to offer for every traveler. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Baripada better.