Jajpur (also known as Jajapur, "ଯାଜପୁର") is a city and a municipality in Jajpur district in the Indian state of Odisha.
It is popularly known as Biraja Kshetra, which translates as "the place sacred to Goddess Biraja", and is located on the banks of the Baitarani River. It was the capital of Odisha during the Kesari dynasty, later supplanted by Cuttack. Now, it is the headquarters of Jajpur district.
Demographics
As of 2011 India census, Jajpur had a population of 37,458. Males constitute 51% of the population and females 49%. Jajpur has an average literacy rate of 82%, greater than the national average of 65%: male literacy is 87%, and female literacy is 76%. In Jajpur, 11% of the population is under 6 years of age.
Places to Visit in Jajpur
Biraja Temple
Biraja temple was built in the 13th century. The idol in this temple is Dwibhujamurthy, having two hands with, Trishul in one hand and holding Mahishasura tail in another hand. Maa Biraja Devi also called as Girija Devi, Viraja Devi and Biraja Devi. Vaitarini river is passing near Biraja kshetra. Here Maa Biraja Devi worshipped as Trishakti Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati. Devotees will offer their hair to the holy goddess. This area is also famous for Shraddha karmas.
Lalitgiri
Lalitgiri, with its other name as Naltigiri, is the 1st century Buddhist complex in Orissa, which together with Ratnagiri and Udayagiri creates Puspagiri University which has a number of best sculptures of that age – like significant stupas and monasteries (viharas). As a renowned Buddhist pilgrimage, this ancient lush village Lalitgiri is a holy destination for a large number of Buddhism devotees.
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri is a renowned Buddhist holy destination. The place consists of several important Buddhist sculptures spotted around the hills. As per an excavation, a huge monastery at Ratnagiri dates back to the Mahayana sect. It also revealed that the kings like Ashoka publicised Buddhism in this area. There has been found a number of other hints of Buddhism, including the Monastery, Stupas, Chaityas, among others. Ratnagiri is believed to be a superb destination for learning about the Buddhism of a Tantric cult that is Vajrayana.
Other Places
Langudi Hills
