The Rayagada district is known for its longest human history. The district came functionally into existence on 2nd October in the year 1992. But as the historical document goes, the region of Rayagada existed far back in the ancient time and leaving the copper plates, rock inscriptions and the coins there is no authentic written document of the Rayagada district.

However it is evident from the coins and the inscriptions excavated, that Rayagada was the center of attraction in all ages. In the 3rd century B.C, the, entire region of Rayagada was included in the Kalinga empire and Ashoka was at the helm of administration. From the rock edicts of Ashoka the history of Rayagada during the Ashokan regime is interpreted. Bhojpur Rock inscription in Brahmi of Rastrik King Mandhata adds some facts about the historical records of the Rayagada district. Kharvela, the only Aryan King ever ruled in Orissa defeated the Rastriks. Kharvela was ousted by the military campaign of Samudragupta. The Allahabad Pillar Inscription, framed by Harishena provides evidence to the socio-economic and cultural life of Rayagada during the reign of Samudragupta. During Ganga Vansi and Surya Vansi Kings, Rayagada was under Dadarnab Dev of Gudari Kataka. A rock inscription found at Pataleswar temple in Brahmi script depicts the era of the Ganga and the Surya kings in Rayagada. In the subsequent periods, many indigenous and foreign rulers colonized the region of Rayagada till the British arrived as the political head of India including Orissa. However during the British supremacy Rayagada was a significant part of Jeypore Zamindari, which later transformed into the princely state of the British. Till independence Rayagada, survived as the subdivision of Jeypore Zamindary.