Rourkela is a well-planned city in northern Odisha, making it the third-largest city in the state. Located about 340 kilometers north of Bhubaneswar, it is surrounded by hills and rivers. Often called Ispat Nagar or the Steel City of Odisha, Rourkela is home to one of the largest steel plants in India, the Rourkela Steel Plant, operated by the Steel Authority of India Limited.
places to visit in Rourkela
Vedavyas Temple
The Vedavyas Temple is named after the great sage Vyasa, who wrote the Mahabharata. This temple holds significant importance as it is located at the confluence of three rivers: Sankha, Koel, and the underground Saraswati, which then form the Brahmani River.
Vaishno Devi Temple
The Vaishno Devi Temple in Rourkela is a replica of the famous Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu. It is located at the top of Durgapur Hill and is a popular spiritual site for visitors.
Badaghagra Falls
Badaghagra Waterfall is located in the Kendujhar district of Odisha. The waterfall is a major attraction, known for its beauty and the surrounding natural landscape.
Khandadhar Falls
Khandadhar Falls is located in Nandapani, Bonaigarh, in the Sundergarh district of Odisha. It is the 12th highest waterfall in India, offering a stunning view and a peaceful atmosphere.
Hanuman Vatika
Hanuman Vatika in Rourkela is a garden dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is famous for housing the second tallest statue of Hanuman in Odisha, making it a popular place for visitors and devotees.
Harishankar Falls
Harishankar Falls is located on the southern side of Gandhamardhan Hills in Balangir. The waterfall is known for its series of cascading falls, creating a mesmerizing sight amidst the hills.
Darjeeng Park
Darjeeng Park is situated 51 km from Rourkela, on the banks of the Brahmini River. This park is a beautiful picnic spot, offering a peaceful setting for visitors to relax and enjoy nature.
Best Time to Visit Rourkela
Rourkela experiences a tropical climate. The summer season lasts from late March to June, with temperatures ranging between 21°C and 37°C. The hottest months are typically mid-May and June. The city receives heavy rainfall from the Southwest Monsoon between June and September, and also experiences some rainfall during the retreating Northeast Monsoon in December and January. Winters in Rourkela are chilly, with temperatures sometimes dropping significantly. The ideal time to visit Rourkela is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 9°C and 24°C.
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | March to June | 21°C to 37°C | Hot with the highest temperatures in May and June. |
| Monsoon | June to September | 22°C to 30°C | Heavy rainfall, with Southwest Monsoon rains. |
| Winter | October to March | 9°C to 24°C | Pleasant and chilly, ideal for sightseeing. |
