Sambalpur, Odisha

Rivers, Hills, Textile, Wildlife, Temples, History
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Overview

Welcome to Sambalpur, the gateway to the western zone of Orissa, where nature thrives in the form of abundant rivers, lush hills, verdant forests, and diverse wildlife. This charming city seamlessly blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. Sambalpur holds significant historical importance and is renowned for its flourishing textile and handloom industry, known for its unique patterns and styles. The city also boasts a vibrant tribal life, with exclusive folk songs, dances, and cultural traditions. Named after the main goddess of the region, Devi Samaleswari, Sambalpur offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature at wildlife parks and marvel at the world-famous Hirakud Dam, a major tourist attraction. Additionally, the city is home to several temples of great significance, attracting devotees from far and wide. Sambalpur is the largest city in western Odisha, and its historical significance is further underscored by its association with numerous freedom fights against the British, making it a historically important destination.
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How to Reach Sambalpur

By Air
  • Take a flight to the nearest international airport located just a short distance from the city center.
  • The airport offers a range of direct flights from major cities around the world.
By Train
  • Take advantage of the extensive rail network with regular train services connecting to major cities.
  • The main train station is centrally located in the city for convenient access.
By Road
  • Travelers can reach the city by taking the main highway that connects to surrounding areas.
  • Accessible by car, bus, or taxi with well-maintained roads providing a smooth journey.
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Places to Visit in Sambalpur

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Maa Samaleswari Temple

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Nestled on the serene banks of the Mahanadi River in Sambalpur, Odisha, the Samaleswari Temple stands as a revered shrine dedicated to Devi Samaleswari, also known as Jagannath Adishakti, Mahalaxmi, and Mahasawarswati. This divine deity holds great significance in the region, with the city of Sambal...
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Sambalpur Zoo

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Nestled in the heart of Sambalpur, the Sambalpur Deer Park, also known as the Zoological Park, Sakhipara, offers a tranquil escape into nature's embrace. Spread across 35 acres of lush greenery, this wildlife sanctuary beckons visitors to explore its diverse array of animal and bird species in their...
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The Leaning Temple of Huma

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Located in Sambalpur, Odisha, the Leaning Temple of Huma is a fascinating 17th-century marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva. This unique temple is renowned for its distinct tilt, with the main structure leaning towards one side while the pinnacle stands tall and straight. Believed to have been caused by n...
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Things to do in Sambalpur

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Visit Samaleswari Temple

Head to the banks of Mahanadi in Sambalpur, Odisha to explore the magnificent Samaleswari temple. Dedicated to Devi Samaleswari, also known as Jagannath Adishakti, Mahalaxmi, and Mahasawarswati, this temple holds significant cultural and religious importance in the region. The city of Sambalpur itse...
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Explore Sambalpur Mini Zoo

Discover the Sambalpur Mini Zoo, a popular attraction in Odisha. With approximately 300 daily visitors, the number swells to 1000 on Sundays and peaks from November to March. Spanning 13.6 hectares on the outskirts of Sambalpur, this zoo is home to a variety of wildlife including four horned antelop...
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Visit the Leaning Temple of Lord Shiva

Explore the unique Leaning Temple of Lord Shiva in Sambalpur, Odisha, which was constructed in the 17th century. This remarkable temple features a leaning top, with the pinnacle standing perpendicular to the ground. The leaning structure is believed to be the result of either an earthquake or the po...
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Best Time to Visit Sambalpur

The best time to visit Sambalpur is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions and natural beauty.

FAQs on Sambalpur

What is famous about Sambalpur?
Sambalpur is known for its picturesque location in the Mahanadi river basin and offers a stunning view of the mighty Hirakud dam.
What is not so good about Sambalpur?
The region is prone to floods caused by the river Mahanadi.
Who should visit Sambalpur?
Sambalpur is an ideal destination for those interested in exploring religious sites, as it is home to many temples.
What is the best time to visit Sambalpur?
The best time to visit Sambalpur is from September to March, as the city experiences extreme climatic conditions with hot summers, very cold winters, and heavy rainfall during the rainy season.
What is the local food in Sambalpur?
Sambalpur offers a variety of local dishes, including Bhat Pakhala, a refreshing summer dish, Basi bhat, a traditional rice preparation, aaloo baingan jhol, panas tarkari, Pudala baigan, Kukra jhol, Dai baigan, Jhuri Bhaja, and various delectable sweets.
What is the best way to reach Sambalpur?
Sambalpur is accessible by rail and road, with two railway stations - Khetrajpur and the Sambalpur Road Station. Regular bus services connect Sambalpur to nearby cities, and the nearest airport is Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur, approximately 262 km away.
What are the places near Sambalpur?
Nearby attractions include the Tikarpada wildlife sanctuary (127 km away), Puri (267 km away), Rourkela (126 km away), Goa (1258 km away), and Agra (876 km away).

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