At a Glance
Ganjam is named after the Old Ganjam fort. It is a culturally vibrant district, famous for its folk dances like Bagha Nacha and Jodi Sankha. Berhampur, the "Silk City," is the commercial heart of the district, renowned for its Berhampur Patta sarees and intricate jewelry.
The Heritage Diary
Ganjam was part of the ancient Kalinga empire. It was under the rule of the French and later the British (Madras Presidency). The district has a unique mix of Odia and Telugu cultures due to its proximity to Andhra Pradesh. It has been the birthplace of many poets, including Upendra Bhanja, the "Kabi Samrat."
Local Landmarks
- ✦Tara Tarini: A major Shakti Peetha located on a hilltop on the banks of the Rushikulya river. It requires climbing 999 steps (or taking a ropeway/road).
- ✦Gopalpur-on-Sea: A popular beach resort with a historic lighthouse and colonial-era ruins.
- ✦Taptapani: Famous for its perennial hot sulfur spring, believed to have medicinal properties.
- ✦Chilika Lake (Rambha): The southern sector of Chilika Lake, dotted with islands like Breakfast Island and Honeymoon Island.
- ✦Jaugarh: Famous for the Ashokan rock edicts, proving the region's importance in ancient times.
Taste of the Land
- ✦Achar & Papad: Berhampur is famous for its wide variety of pickles and papads.
- ✦Mutton Curry: The local style of mutton preparation is legendary.
- ✦Girija Devi's Cashew: Just kidding, but cashew processing is big here!
Local Heroes
- ✦Kabi Samrat Upendra Bhanja: The emperor of Odia poetry.
- ✦Biju Patnaik: Though born in Cuttack, his ancestral roots trace back to Ganjam.
- ✦V.V. Giri: Former President of India, born in Berhampur.