Odisha (formerly Orissa) is the 9th largest state in India by area, covering 155,820 km², and the 11th most populous, with a population of 41.94 million (Census 2011). It is bordered by West Bengal to the northeast, Jharkhand to the north, Chhattisgarh to the west, and Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to the south. The state boasts a 480 km-long coastline along the Bay of Bengal, contributing to its rich maritime heritage and economic significance.
The capital, Bhubaneswar, is the largest city in Odisha, spanning 148 km² with a population of 885,000 (2011 census), or around 1.2 million (1,200,000) estimated in 2024. Known as the “Temple City of India,” it is a major hub for education, commerce, and culture. Cuttack, the former capital and second-largest city, is famous for its historical significance and silver filigree work. Rourkela, the third-largest city, is an industrial powerhouse, home to one of India’s largest steel plants (Rourkela Steel Plant).
Here, you will know about the largest cities by population, area, districts of cities, cities, and literacy. And frequently asked questions.
| Rank | City | Population (2011 census) | Area (km²) | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bhubaneswar | 885,363 | 148 | Bhubaneswar |
| 2 | Cuttack | 663,188 | 195 | Cuttack |
| 3 | Raurkela (Rourkela) | 552,239 | 157 | Raurkela |
| 4 | Brahmapur (Berhampur) | 356,598 | 79 | Ganjam |
| 5 | Sambalpur | 266,271 | 89 | Sambalpur |
| 6 | Puri | 200,564 | 16 | Puri |
| 7 | Baleshwar (Balasore) | 177,751 | 68 | Baleshwar |
| 8 | Bhadrak | 129,228 | 31 | Bhadrak |
| 9 | Baripada | 116,849 | 37 | Mayurbhanj |
| 10 | Balangir | 98,238 | 31 | Balangir |
| 11 | Jharsuguda | 97,730 | 70 | Jharsuguda |
| 12 | Jaypur | 84,830 | 25 | |
| 13 | Bargarh | 80,625 | 16 | Bargarh |
| 14 | Brajarajnagar | 80,403 | 41 | Jharsuguda |
| 15 | Rayagada | 71,208 | 18 | Rayagada |
| 16 | Bhawanipatna | 69,045 | 15 | Kalahandi |
| 17 | Paradip | 68,585 | 23 | Jagatsinghpur |
| 18 | Dhenkanal | 67,414 | 24 | Dhenkanal |
| 19 | Barbil (Bada Barabil) | 66,540 | 41 | Kendujhar |
| 20 | Jatani | 63,697 | 26 | Khordha |
| 21 | Kendujhar (Kendujhargarh) | 60,590 | 26 | Kendujhar |
| 22 | Byasanagar | 56,946 | 39 | Jajapur |
| 23 | Rajagangapur | 51,362 | 26 | Sundargarh |
| 24 | Sunabeda | 50,394 | 76 | Koraput region |
| 25 | Koraput | 47,468 | 61 | Koraput |
FAQ’s
Angul-Talcher region is known for coal mining and industries like NALCO, MCL.
Baripada, known for Mayurbhanj Chhau dance and Similipal National Park.
Puri (religious tourism), Bhubaneswar (temples & modern attractions), and Konark (Sun Temple).
Bhubaneswar (Biju Patnaik International Airport)
Jharsuguda (Veer Surendra Sai Airport)
Berhampur (proposed)
Bhubaneswar (IIT, NISER, AIIMS, XIMB, KIIT, NIFT).
Rourkela (NIT Rourkela).
Bhubaneswar (IT & startups)
Rourkela & Jharsuguda (steel & power)
Angul-Talcher (mining & metals)
Highest Density: Cuttack (most urbanized, ~6,800 people per km²).
Lowest Density: Angul (industrial, ~1,200 people per km²).
Highest: Bhubaneswar (1.2 million, 2024 est.) – Fastest-growing due to migration & IT sector.
Loest: Jeypore (Koraput district, ~1 lakh) – Not among the largest but key in South Odisha.
Highest: Bhubaneswar (93%) – Due to elite institutions (IIT, NISER, KIIT, etc.).
Lowest: Sambalpur (~76%) – Despite being an economic hub, rural outskirts pull down the average.
Facts about Major cities in Odisha
1. Bhubaneswar
- Known for its ancient temples, including Lingaraj Temple and Mukteshwar Temple.
- Home to premier institutions like IIT Bhubaneswar and NISER. A center for IT and business with numerous industries and start-ups.
2. Cuttack
- Often referred to as the twin city of Bhubaneswar due to their proximity and cultural connections.
- Renowned for its silver filigree work and craftsmanship.
- Hosts the historic Barabati Fort and Katak Chandi Temple.
- Famous for the Durga Puja celebrations and Bali Jatra fair.
3. Rourkela
- Known as the industrial capital of Odisha, housing the Rourkela Steel Plant, one of India’s largest steel producers.
- Home to NIT Rourkela, a premier engineering institute.
- Surrounded by picturesque hills and rivers, offering scenic attractions like Mandira Dam.
4. Sambalpur
- Known for Sambalpuri sarees, a globally recognized handloom product.
- Houses ancient landmarks like the Hirakud Dam, the world’s longest earthen dam.
- Close to Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, rich in biodiversity.
- Celebrates unique cultural festivals like Nuakhai, a harvest festival.
5. Berhampur
- Famous for its exquisite Berhampuri silk sarees.
- Situated near the Bay of Bengal, offering proximity to beaches like Gopalpur-on-Sea.
- Popular for temples like Maa Tara Tarini and nearby scenic destinations.
