Jajpur is situated on the right bank of the Baitarani River at longitude 20051 N and latitude 86020 E. The origin of the name of Jajpur is shrouded in mystery. Some scholars think that it is derived from the word Yajnapura, while other scholars opine that the name originated from Jajatipura. King Yajati of Somavansa was known to have made a great Yajna called Dasaswamedha at this place.