Rourkela, India

Rourkela, located in the Sundargarh district of Odisha, is a planned city known as an industrial hub and for its steel plant, one of the first integrated steel plants in India. While primarily an industrial city, Rourkela offers a blend of urban and natural attractions. The city is surrounded by hills and rivers, providing scenic beauty. The Indira Gandhi Park and the Hanuman Vatika are popular spots for relaxation and sightseeing. It is a gateway to explore the tribal culture of Odisha and nearby natural landscapes. Rourkela provides a unique experience, balancing industrial progress with natural beauty and cultural richness. The city is well-connected by rail and road, making it accessible for tourists.

History:

The history of Rourkela is closely linked to the establishment of the Rourkela Steel Plant in the 1950s. The plant was set up with German collaboration and marked a significant step in India's industrial development. Before the steel plant, the area was primarily inhabited by tribal communities. The construction of the plant led to a rapid influx of people and transformed Rourkela into a major industrial city. The city played a crucial role in India's economic growth and continues to be an important industrial center.

How to reach:

Rourkela is well-connected by rail and road. The Rourkela railway station is a major railhead on the Howrah-Mumbai line. Regular trains connect Rourkela to major cities in India. By road, Rourkela is accessible via National Highway 143. The nearest airport is in Ranchi (Jharkhand), about 150 km away, from where you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Rourkela. The Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is another option, located approximately 330 km away.