Brahmapur

{{style|All listings should be Wikivoyage:Listings|Wiki-listified (that is, put into listing templates), except in "Go next". Brahmapur (Berhampur) is a city on the eastern coastline of the Eastern India|East Indian state of Odisha (formerly known as Orissa).

Brahmapur-railway-station-entrance-gate-4 - Railway Station

Brahmapur Halal Travel Guide

Brahmapur (previously known as Berhampur) (Oriya: ବ୍ରହ୍ମପୁର) and nicknamed "The Silk City", is a city on the eastern coastline of the state of Odisha and is the third-largest city in Odisha, with a population of 355,823 (with agglomeration the population of the city is around 800,000).

Brahmapur is a business hub and has many things to offer in terms of tourism attractions and activities. Tara Tarini an ancient Shakti peetha, Breast shrine of Adi Shakti and one amongst the 4 major Shakti Peeethas in India is 25 kilometers from the city. Apart from it the world famous Gopalpur-on-Sea sea beach, Bhairabi & Mahurikalua temples and Tampara lake are 10 kilometers around the town. Famous Chilka Lake at Rambha and Taptapani Hot Springs are around 45 kilometers from from the city. It is silk city so silk products are affordable and plently available. this place is also famous for variety of Pickles, Mixtures and Papped. For the intrepid explorer, Brahmapur offers a variety of good shopping options and food discoveries.

The rural development NGO Gram Vikas is located 14 km outside of Brahmapur and hosts a number of international volunteers each year. If you're from outside India, don't be surprised if local residents keep asking you if you work for Gram Vikas.

Travel to Brahmapur

Travel by train to Brahmapur

Brahmapur is well-connected by rail. Brahmapur station is part of East Coast Railways and is 2½ hours from the national capital of Bhubaneswar and around 3½ hours from Visakhapatnam. Brahmapur is a major stop on the line from Kolkata to Chennai, making it a convenient stop along the way, with many trains running every day. There are many trains connecting Puri to Brahmapur. Even you can catch a train to Khurda Road Junction and switch there to Brahmapur (Berhampur).

Fly to Brahmapur

Bhubaneswar Airport is well-connected to major Indian city's through Indian airlines such as Goindigo. You can fly to Bhubaneswar and take one of the more than 50 trains connecting Bhubaneswar and Brahmapur daily.

Travel by Bus to Brahmapur

There are a number of buses that go and come to Brahmapur. They tend to be cheaper than the trains. Buses arrive in the New Bus Terminal, located some distance outside the town center. You will need an auto-rickshaw or cycle rickshaw to reach the center. (See "Get Around" below.)

How to get around in Brahmapur

The main mode of transportation in Brahmapur is the auto-rickshaw and taxis. Cycle rickshaws are also available and are slower but cheaper. You should ask for the price up front and are expected to bargain.

The center of town is called the Old Bus Stand Barracks. Located around the Old Bus Stand or Barracks are the five largest hotels in town, Nandan International, Spectrum, Bhubaneswari Classic, Radha and Jyoti Residency. In front of these hotels you can find Ambassador taxis. They are more expensive than auto-rickshaws, but more comfortable for longer drives. Again, expect to bargain for your fare up front.

What to see in Brahmapur

{{style|Please Wikivoyage:Listings|listify and restructure. Eliminate red links that will never get their own articles. Brahmapur is a busy, crowded business city with many things to attract foreign tourists. With friendly people and a few great food discoveries awaiting the intrepid explorer.

The Old Bus Stand marks the center of town. Around it you will find many shops and many restaurant options. You can also find many hotels around here.
The City Mall is 200 m away from the Old Bus Stand.
The Reliance Trend & Vishal Mega Mart are 300 m away from the Old Bus Stand.
Urban Bank Road/Arnapurna Market is well known for Garments and Sarees.
Bhapur Bazzar which is 300 m away from the Old Bus Stand famous for variety of Pickles and Papped, traditional Kalinga food and Mixtures.
Bada Bazzar (one of the biggest markets in East India) which is 2 kilometers away from the Old Bus Stand famous for jewellery, gems, diamonds, garments and variety of other items.
Biju Pattnaik Park is a good location to visit inside the city.
Ramlinga Tank is a pond, west of the Old Bus Stand. Shops, cinemas, food chains like Dominos, Red Chilli, Hyderabadi Biryani and temples situated nearby make it a convenient landmark. There are also a great number of street food options located next to it. (See "Eat" below.)
Sri Sidhibinayakya Pitha: This temple is centrally located in the city near Giri Road, Tata Benz square which is one of the largest Ganesh Temple in Odisha.
Bi-Annual Thakurani Yatra – The Festival of the Goddess Budhi Thakurani: This welcomes the goddess Budhi Thakurani to her temporary abode for the biannual Thakurani Jatra (festival) late at night. The hereditary head of the festival, who is also regarded as the head of the weaver Dera community of the city, Desibehera, dressed in his traditional attire, visits the Budhi Maa Thakurani temple to invite the goddess to her parental abode at his home on Saturday afternoon. His wife also accompanies him and they make offerings at the Kalika temple. Rituals to welcome the deity for the festival started at the temporary temple built at Desibehera street from evening with the Changudi Puja. After these rituals, flowers are carried from Desibehera's house to the Budhi Thakurani temple. Fallen flowers are carried as representative of the deity to Desibehera Street in a large decorated procession at night. The Thakurani Yatra is celebrated in different parts of Ganjam neighborhood. One such major biennial Thakurani Yatra is Lanjipalli Thakurani Yatra.

Outside the city

Gopalpur Beach: Thit is 10 kilometers from the city and the Gopalpur is a retreat for sun, sea and sand lovers. At one time it was a busy seaport and it still displays the crumbling walls and pillars of the jetty. There are various town buses that run from Old Bus stand to Gopalpur. It is quite convenient to drive to Gopalpur on ones personal vehicle. Gopalpur once used to be a bustling place with tourists. There are many good hotels like Oberoi Palm Beach resort. It is a lesser known fact that, Oberoi Palm Beach resort was the first property to be acquired under the Oberoi Group brand. Gopalpur has an old light house and a small fisherman's cove. The Gopalpur Beach Festival is also held here.
Tara Tarini

Temple – The Shakti Pitha (Sthana Peetha): Thit is one of the oldest pilgrimage place of mother goddess and amongst the four major ancient Adi Shakti centers in India. The mythological texts recognize four major Shakti Pithas (centers), like Bimala, Taratarini, Kamakshya and Dakhina Kalika, which originated from the limbs of the Corpse of Mata Sati in the Satya Yuga. Rooted in the hoary past, mentioned in the Puranas and the Tantras and as the main seat of Tantric cult for thousands of years and center of Shakti worship since time immemorial, this hill Shrine is believed to be the Sthana Peetha (Breast Shrine of Mata Sati) and an important prehistoric religious center which bears an uninterrupted history of about 6000 years.

Siddha Bhairavi: The place is named after the presiding deity goddess Maa Bhairabee at the remote village of Mantridi. Carved in crude fashion and the icon (one-legged goddess with four hands) was discovered and enshrined in a newly adorned temple in 1937. According to legend, fisherman and sailors used to worship the deity for blessings before commencement of their journey. Maa Bhairabee nowadays has become an important Shakti Pitha venerable for the fisherman community that live in nearby villages. Tourists from almost all parts of southern Odisha as well as northern Andhra Pradesh visit this holy shrine everyday. The holy days on which most of the devotees assemble before the deity to offer their prayers are on Sankranti days of the Hindu calendar and on all Tuesdays.
Taptapani: Taptapani (Hot-Water), as the name suggests, is well known for its thermal spas (Muslim Friendly). Nestled at about 1,800 feet (550 m) above sea level, this spot is 56 kilometers away from the city's train station. The sprawling Panthanivas is the only shelter for tourists at Taptapani. The cottages overlook a pristine valley and the dining hall is strategically placed between two crests of mountain fold. A few minutes walk from here will take you to Kandimata Mandir, where the local residents bathe in the spring before offering their daily prayers. There is also a deer park maintained by the forest department.
Chilika Lake : Chilika is India's biggest inland lake, spread over 1,100 km² stretching across the length of the three neighborhoods of Puri, Khurdha and Ganjam and finally joins the Bay of Bengal through a narrow mouth, forming an enormous lagoon of brackish water. Dotted with many emerald green islands with colourful names such as Honeymoon Island and Breakfast Island, Chilika is home to a rich variety of aquatic fauna. It is also a sanctuary and winter resort for migratory birds, some coming from as far as Siberia.

Top Travel Tips

Walk in the city's markets, haggling for souvenirs, Odisha handicraft, or handwoven (khadi) fabric.
Grab a chai or lassi in the many street stalls around the town center, or a quick meal at a street food stall around the Ramlinga Tank.
Brahmapur has a long tradition of theater and its denizens are passionate about cinemas. The city is well known for its cinema theater complexes, including Gautam, Rukmini, Shiva, Shakti, Payal and Paramjyoti. Hindi movies are the most popular, followed by Odia movies. English and Telugu movies are shown on a regular basis.

How to work legally in Brahmapur

Brahmapur is close to many tribal villages in rural Odisha. The NGO Gram Vikas, who work with rural and tribal communities in Odisha, are located 14 km outside Brahmapur. They welcome serious, committed international volunteers interested in rural development.

Shopping in Brahmapur

Many shops around the Old Bus Stand sell handwoven (khadi) silk or cotton. If you are in town for a few days, you can get these fabrics fitted and tailored. Make sure you visit a tailor first and have your measurements taken, so the tailor can tell you how much fabric you should get.
Silk sarees, called Brahmapur pata, are famous and the reason Brahmapur is nicknamed "The Silk City".
The city is a big market for fruits, especially mangoes when they are in season. Berhampur has the 5th biggest Mango market in the nation.
Brahmapur is well known for the shops in Bada Bazaar, Annapurna Market and Bhapur Bazaar.
There are some relatively large department stores in the city, including Vishal MegaMart, Bazaar Kolkata, Reliance trends and the City Mall and the World and Metro Bazar. Prices are higher than in street markets, but you can get a sense of the price of things by shopping there.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Brahmapur

Dahibara Aloodum - ଦହିବରା ଆଳୁଦମ୍ - Odisha - Dahibara Aloodum is made with potatoes, curd, lentils, semolina, onion and chilli powder.

Brahmapur is well known in India for its papad (popadum), aachard (pickles) and badis. Additionally and there are many food options, ranging from street stall to fancy hotel restaurant. Not all of the street stalls are sanitary, so be sure to observe the proceedings and eat only at stalls that get a lot of business.

Some things worth trying:

Biryani from New Biryani Centre.
Chicken and egg rolls from Calcutta Roll Counter, in front of Ramlinga Tank.
Chicken Pakoda (fried chicken) or Chicken tandoori at Girija Restaurant, near Ramlinga Tank.
Chicken Tikka from Hotel Moti.
Fresh fruit juices from Vizag Fruit Juice Centre.
Fried Chicken legs from Merydine Restaurant.
Fruit salad from Murty Cool Sip.
Italian-style ice cream from Softy Zone.
Mutton Curries from Pidha Hotel.

Brahmapur is a fairly conservative Indian city, so bars are very rare, almost exclusively for men and pretty shady. The 'nicest' bar is probably Regency Bar, between Nandan Hotel and Jyoti Residency. Note that women are very rarely patrons of these establishments and may be refused service altogether. It is not recommended for solo female travellers to go into these bars. Restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Brahmapur

Brahmapur - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Brahmapur, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Brahmapur. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Brahmapur and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Brahmapur. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Brahmapur. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Brahmapur: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Brahmapur.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Brahmapur: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Brahmapur, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Brahmapur.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Brahmapur, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Brahmapur, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Brahmapur and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Brahmapur, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Brahmapur, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Brahmapur without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Brahmapur is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Brahmapur.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Brahmapur is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Brahmapur, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Brahmapur Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Brahmapur

eHalal Group Brahmapur is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Brahmapur. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Brahmapur.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Brahmapur ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Brahmapur. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Brahmapur, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Brahmapur are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan 2024 Celebrations in Brahmapur

Ramadan 2025 in Brahmapur

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Some options in Brahmapur:

Ananda Bhavan Lodging (208364)
Berhampur Rest House (203636)
Hotel MoonLite
Hotel Moti (202386)
Hotel Nandan (200232)
Hotel Radha (202341)
Hotel Shankar Bhawan (203309)
Jyoti Residency (near Old Bus Stand)
Lake View Lodge (203334)
Laxminivas Lodging (305381)
Municipal Guest House (200466)
Sriram Bhawan (203369)

Stay Safe

The biggest hazard in Brahmapur comes from the chaotic traffic. Make sure to look both sides before crossing a street, even in a one-way street!

Although Brahmapur is not a tourist city, make sure to keep your belongings close to you and in a safe place, particularly around the train station or the Old Bus Stand.

There is a police station right next to the Old Bus Stand, in front of Nandan Hotel.

Local Customs in Brahmapur

Brahmapur is a traditional Indian city. Make sure to wear culturally-appropriate clothes, especially if you are a Muslima. You won't get in trouble if you don't, but you might attract a lot of unwanted attention from men.

The people may approach you, asking for your name and nationality and wanting to shake your hand. As a rule and these are not people out to scam you in any way, just curious, friendly people. Take the time to chat with them and try and make a good impression! Don't feel obliged to agree to anything that makes you uncomfortable.

Cope in Brahmapur

The city can get very hot in the hot season, between March to June. The winter (October to February) is the best time to visit, with dry, cool evenings and very few rain. In the monsoon season (June to October), streets can get flooded with rain water.

Like many places in India, although there is a lot of delicious street and restaurant food around the town, not all of them are clean and hygienic. Make sure to observe stalls or restaurants and only go to those with a lot of people and that inspire you to eat there. Make sure to regularly wash your hands, especially before meals. If you fall ill and there are a number of pharmacies and health stores around the town where you can get medicine.

News & References Brahmapur

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Brahmapur

Brahmapur is 2½ hours away from Bhubaneswar and 3½ hours away from Puri. It's located on the main train line from Kolkata to Chennai, making it a convenient stop. It's also a good jumping-off point to nearby places such as Gopalpur-on-sea.

Places located near Brahmapur:

Bankeswari
Bhairabi Temple
Budhakhola
Dhabaleshwar beach
Gopalpur beach
Guduguda (Near Jiranga, stunning location)
Jaugada
Pota Gada
Ramachandi Temple
Sundareswar Temple
Sunpur Virgin beach
Tampara lake water sports complex
Tapatapani hill Resort (operated by OTDC fully renovated with Phantom's Tree house)
Taratarini Temple