Baripada, Mayurbhanj

Baripada is the district headquarters of Mayurbhanj. Simlipal National Park is located within Baripada. Baripada is also the cultural headquarters of Mayurbhanj as numerous practitioners of the Mayurbhanj Chhau dance call Baripada home.

The dance unfolds on the stage, the liveliness of the dancers and the visitors should not miss witnessing a live performance of the classical martial dance form. The tradition of the chariot festival or Ratha Yatra is a large part of the identity of Baripada. After Puri, Baripada sees the largest celebration of the Ratha Yatra festival in honor of Lord Jagannath. The city is also known as the second Puri in Orissa.

The chariot of Maa Subhadra in Baripada is pulled only by devotees who are women. The Jagadhatri mela is a celebration in honor of Maa Jagadhatri, the Goddess of the world. Baripada in essence is a celebration of life and culture with a spirit that stays with you long after leaving Baripada.