This area is abundant in naturally occurring minerals and offers a diverse range of relief features and captivating natural tourist destinations. Rourkela is a must-visit destination that holds great religious significance due to its prominence in epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Khandadhar Waterfall: Just a short drive from NH 215 near Lahunipara, Khandadhar Waterfall is a stunning sight to behold. Water plunges down the mountain side, creating a beautiful scene that looks like the edge of a sword.
Darjing and Deoghar: On NH23 towards Rajamunda, you'll find Darjing village by the Brahmani River. It's about 45 kilometers from Rourkela and is a lovely spot for a picnic with its peaceful surroundings.
Vedvyas: Vedvyas in Rourkela is where three rivers meet - Sankha, Koel, and Saraswati. Named after the sage Vedvyas, it's a spiritual place with temples dedicated to different gods. Don't miss the Shivratri festival and the Sankirtan mandap by the river.
Ghogar: About 27 kilometers from Rourkela, Ghogar is a gorge along the Ib River. It stretches for 5 kilometers and is a treat for the eyes. There's also a Shivalinga made of black granite that people come to see.
Ambagan Market: Also known as the Ispat market, Ambagan is one of Rourkela's oldest markets. It's busy every day except Monday and is a central spot for shopping and exploring.
Biju Patnaik Hockey Stadium: Managed by SAIL, this stadium in Rourkela hosts lots of hockey matches. It's got top-notch facilities like Astroturf and nylon grass, making it perfect for national and international games.