Discover the best places to visit in Sambalpur, a city of rich culture, tradition, and natural beauty. From the majestic Hirakud Dam to the ancient Samaleswari Temple, and the wildlife sanctuaries, explore the history and natural beauty of this city.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the handicraft markets, experiencing the vibrant Sambalpuri dance, and savoring the local cuisine. The modern amenities of the City Centre Mall offer a comfortable shopping experience, making it a perfect destination for everyone.
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Sambalpur. Plan your visit today and discover the hidden gems of this charming city.
1. Hirakud Dam
The Hirakud Dam is a massive dam built across the Mahanadi river in Sambalpur. It is the longest earthen dam in the world and is a major tourist attraction in the region. The dam offers spectacular views of the river and the surrounding hills. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the reservoir and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
The Hirakud Dam is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a crucial source of irrigation, hydroelectricity, and flood control in the region. The dam plays a vital role in the economy and agriculture of the state of Odisha.
With its vast reservoir, the dam is a hub of water-based activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports. The mesmerizing views of the dam, its surroundings, and the majestic Mahanadi river attract visitors from all over the country.
If you’re planning a trip to Sambalpur, make sure to include Hirakud Dam in your itinerary for an unforgettable experience. It is one of the best picnic spot in Sambalpur.
2. Maa Samaleswari Temple
The Samaleswari Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Samaleswari, who is believed to be the presiding deity of Sambalpur. The temple is known for its architectural beauty and is considered to be one of the most important temples in the state of Odisha.
The temple is located in the heart of the city and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists every year. The Samaleswari Temple is not only a significant religious site but also a place of cultural and historical importance.
The temple has undergone many renovations and restorations over the years and has now become a fine example of Odisha’s architectural style. The temple’s design features intricate carvings and sculptures, which are considered to be the most important feature of the temple.
The temple also has a large courtyard and a holy tank, where devotees take a dip before entering the temple. Samaleswari Temple is not only a must-visit for religious devotees but also for those interested in history and architecture.
Google review – Peace. Calm atmosphere. Not that crowded if you choose your timing with little care. Beggers near the gate. Typical of Hindu religious place. Something needs to be done about the same.
3. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and various species of birds.
Visitors can take a jeep safari or a trekking tour to explore the sanctuary and spot the wildlife. The sanctuary is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the area.
The sanctuary also offers stunning views of the surrounding hills, forests, and water bodies, making it a perfect destination for nature photography. A visit to Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Google Review – I recently visited the Dibrugarh Wildlife Sanctuary and it was an amazing experience. The sanctuary is beautifully designed with natural habitats for various species of animals. The staff is very knowledgeable and passionate about wildlife, and they provided a lot of interesting information during the guided tour.
4. Cattle Island
Cattle Island is a small island located in the middle of the Hirakud reservoir. The island is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular picnic spot among locals and tourists alike. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and enjoy the tranquility of the place.
The island is accessible by boat, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful and scenic boat ride to reach the island. The island offers stunning views of the surrounding reservoir and is a perfect place for a picnic or a relaxing day out. This is one of the best places to visit in Sambalpur, Odisha.
5. Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary
The Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary is another popular wildlife destination in Sambalpur. The sanctuary is home to several species of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. Visitors can take a jeep safari or a trekking tour to explore the sanctuary and spot the wildlife.
The Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary is another gem in Sambalpur’s natural beauty. This sanctuary is spread over an area of many square kilometers. This is one of the best tourist places near Sambalpur, Odisha.
The sanctuary has the best viewpoints that offer stunning views of the surrounding forests and hills. A visit to Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect way to experience the beauty of nature and witness the diversity of wildlife in Sambalpur.
Google Review – An excellent picnic spot in Sambalpur that experiences a deep forest – beauty with fear.
6. Huma Temple – Sambalpur Tourist Place
The Huma Temple is an ancient temple located in Sambalpur. The temple is known for its unique architecture and is considered to be one of the most important temples in the state of Odisha. The temple is located on the banks of the Mahanadi river and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the river.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for its leaning tower. The temple has been constructed on the banks of the Mahanadi river, and during the monsoon season, the water level rises and submerges the temple up to its waist.
The temple’s location and unique architecture make it a popular destination for tourists and photographers. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride on the river and witness the temple’s beauty from a different angle.
A visit to the Huma Temple is a perfect way to experience the spirituality and uniqueness of Sambalpur’s culture. This is one of the best places to visit in Sambalpur, Odisha.
Google Review – 30 mins from Sambalpur. The leaning temple of Huma is a must-visit place if you are in this area. You will surely enjoy the unique fish-feeding experience over here as well.
7. Pradhanpat Waterfall
If you are looking for a Sambalpur tourist place then no more look further. The Pradhanpat Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in the Deogarh district of Sambalpur. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a serene and peaceful environment.
Pradhanpat Waterfall is a hidden gem in Sambalpur that is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The waterfall drops from a height of around 50 feet, and the water flows through several cascades, creating a mesmerizing sight.
Visitors can take a dip in the cool and refreshing water or enjoy a picnic with family and friends in the picturesque surroundings. The waterfall is also a popular destination for photography enthusiasts, who can capture the beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding forest with their cameras.
A visit to Pradhanpat Waterfall is a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature. This is one of the best Sambalpur places to visit with friends and families.
Google Review – Loved the beauty of this place. Great place for family picnics. Bathing is restricted here, but if you wanna bathe you can visit its nearest waterfall at a distance of nearly 6 km called kudrukut waterfall. One of the best tourist places In Sambalpur.
8. Ghanteswari Temple
The Ghanteswari Temple is another ancient temple located in Sambalpur. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Ghanteswari and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture. The temple is located on a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The temple is known for its unique rituals, where devotees tie bells around the temple’s premises to fulfill their wishes. The temple also has several ancient idols of various Hindu deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Ganesha.
The temple’s serene surroundings and unique rituals make it a popular destination for religious devotees and tourists alike. Visitors can also enjoy a panoramic view of the Mahanadi river and the Hirakud Dam from the temple’s premises, making it a perfect spot for nature photography.
Google Review – This is a must-visit place in the western part of Odisha. The road and the drive from Sambalpur are enjoyable. The unique experience of the template and dam is surreal.
9. Deer Park – Sambalpur Tourist Place
It is a popular tourist destination in Sambalpur, located near the Hirakud Dam. The park is home to a large number of spotted deer, and visitors can witness these graceful creatures in their natural habitat.
The park also has several other species of animals and birds, including blackbucks, peafowls, and rabbits. The park has several nature trails and viewpoints that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or a relaxing day out with family and friends. Deer Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers in Sambalpur. This is one of the best places to visit in Sambalpur, Odisha.
Google Review – Deer Park,
as its name suggests you may think of a large population of deer living in the wilderness and that’s true. But not only deer but there is also a huge collection of wild animals and birds such as bears, leopards, peacocks, cobras,s and more.
10. City Centre Mall
City Centre Mall is a popular shopping destination in Sambalpur, located in the heart of the city. The mall is spread over several levels and has several national and international brands, including clothing, footwear, electronics, and home decor.
The mall also has several entertainment options like a multiplex cinema and a food court that offers a wide range of cuisines. Visitors can explore the mall and indulge in shopping or enjoy a movie with family and friends.
City Centre Mall is a perfect destination for shoppers in Sambalpur, offering a modern and comfortable shopping experience. This is one of the best places to visit in Sambalpur with friends and families.
Google Review – It is the only mall in Sambalpur where you can find everything you need. It has everything in it, like cloth stores, shoe stores, and a food court. The amazing thing I found was the live music program they perform for the audience. The only mall in Sambalpur which have a movie place.
11. Vikramkhol Cave
The Vikramkhol Cave is a natural cave located in the Jharsuguda district of Sambalpur. The cave is known for its ancient rock paintings and is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in the region. Visitors can explore the cave and admire the beautiful rock paintings. This is one of the best places to visit in Sambalpur, Odisha.
About Sambalpur City
Sambalpur city is the heart of the Sambalpur district and is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. The city has several historical landmarks, including the Samaleswari Temple, Budharaja Temple, and the Gandhi Minar.
Visitors can also explore the local markets and indulge in shopping for traditional handicrafts and textiles. The city also has several restaurants and eateries that offer authentic Odia cuisine, including the famous Sambalpuri Pitha and Dalma.
Sambalpuri Handicrafts
Sambalpur is famous for its rich tradition of handicrafts, and visitors to the city must explore the local markets and shops to experience the beauty of Sambalpuri handicrafts.
The city is known for its famous Sambalpuri sarees, which are handwoven with intricate designs and patterns. Visitors can also explore the local markets to buy other traditional handicrafts like handloom fabrics, terracotta pottery, and stone carvings.
Sambalpuri Food
Sambalpur is known for its authentic Odia cuisine, and visitors must indulge in the local delicacies to experience the true flavors of Sambalpur. The city is famous for its traditional dishes like Pitha, Dalma, Santula, and Aloo Dum.
Visitors can explore the local eateries and restaurants to savor the local cuisine and also learn about the cooking techniques and ingredients used in Sambalpuri food. A visit to Sambalpur is incomplete without indulging in the local delicacies.
What is the famous of Sambalpur?
Sambalpur is famous for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and natural beauty. The city is renowned for its unique style of handloom textiles known as Sambalpuri sarees and fabrics. The weavers of Sambalpur have been preserving this art for centuries, and their work is admired and sought after all over the world.
What is the famous food of Sambalpur?
The famous food of Sambalpur is Pakhala, a dish made from fermented rice and served with various side dishes like fish fry, potato bhaja, and curries.
How far is Ghanteswari mandir from Sambalpur?
About 30 minutes via Ghanteswari Temple Road
How to visit Hirakud Dam?
Hirakud Dam can be visited by road and is well-connected to major cities in Odisha. The nearest airport and railway station are located in Bhubaneswar, and visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the dam.
What are the best picnic spots in Sambalpur?
Some of the best picnic spots in Sambalpur are Pradhanpat Waterfall, Deer Park, and the Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary.
What are the best tourist places in Sambalpur?
Some of the best tourist places in Sambalpur are Hirakud Dam, Samaleswari Temple, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Huma Temple, and Ghanteswari Temple.
Conclusion and Disclaimer
In conclusion, Sambalpur is a city of rich culture, tradition, and natural beauty. The city has several attractions like Hirakud Dam, Samaleswari Temple, and wildlife sanctuaries, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history buffs.
Visitors can also explore the city’s rich tradition of handicrafts, dance, and cuisine, offering a unique and authentic experience. The city has several modern amenities like City Centre Mall, offering a comfortable and convenient shopping experience.
Sambalpur has something for everyone, and a visit to this city is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich culture of Sambalpur, making it a memorable experience.
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