Baripada is a city and a municipality in Mayurbhanj district in the state of Odisha, India. Baripada is the district headquarters. It is a place to stay and tour the Mayurbhanj region. This region is home to Similipal, one of the most important wildlife parks of India. The national park comprises lush valleys, forest lands and scores of ancient temples. Rathyatra (Chariot Festival) is one of the main attractions of Baripada. Baripada hosts the second most popular Rath Yatra of Odisha after Puri. Baripada is the home of the Mayurbhanj Chhau dance, an ancient martial dance form. The 5th Battalion of OSAP (Odisha State Armed Police) is at Rangamatia. Baripada was the capital of the Bhanj dynasty that ruled Mayurbhanj State since the 15th century. The ruins of the temples and palaces built then can be found at Haripur about 16 km southeast of Baripada. Among the ruins, the Rasikaraya temple and the Durbar hall of the Bhanja kings are the most significant and visited by tourists. The Collectorate Building, Maharaja Krushnachandra High School and the Maharaja Purnachandra College in Baripada are also great examples of Bhanja architecture. Baripada is popular for its art and culture. Many famous stars of Ollywood (Oriya film industry) are from Baripada. Baripada is famous for the Chhau dance form, famous all over the world. The Chaitra Parva celebrated in mid-April recognizes the local talents. Uttarsahi and Dakshinsahi are two main groups who perform in this festival with many other participants. Jhumar Song is popular in Baripada. Baripada is the second place, after Puri, where the tradition of Ratha Yatra (Car festival of Lord Jagannath) began. Hence Baripada is called 'Dwitiya Srikhetra' (second Puri). Baripada's Ratha Yatra is popular for its unique culture. The unique tradition of only women pulling the Ratha of Maa Subhadra started in Baripada.