Discover Sambalpur: Temples, Ikat and Nature

Temple architecture, handloom weaving and destinations close to nature give Sambalpur its many different facets. You can focus your trip on cultural discoveries, take in the landscapes, or explore wildlife and activities in nature. Highlights include the Samaleswari Temple with its tapering tower, Sambalpuri Ikat textiles, and destinations such as Devjharan and Hirakud.

Temples, crafts and religious traditions

The Samaleswari Temple was built in the 16th century by Balaram Dev, the first Chouhan ruler of the Chouhan dynasty of Sambalpur. Its architecture follows the Chouhan style, and its tapering tower is particularly striking. Those interested in historic temples will find a tangible connection here to the region’s history and ruling dynasty. The Budharaja Temple is also a destination for those interested in culture: it dates from the 18th century and is located on Budharaja Hill.

Textile craftsmanship is also part of the region’s cultural character. The Sambalpur market is known for handloom weaving and Sambalpuri Ikat textiles. This offers a different way to experience the destination than visiting temples, with patterns and weaving traditions taking centre stage. In Kardola, a weavers’ village 2 km from Chiplima, demonstrations of traditional Tanta weaving are held. If you are interested in the production process, you can make these demonstrations a focus of your visit.

Kandhara offers another glimpse of the region’s culture. This village in the Rairakhol subdivision of Sambalpur district is associated with the Odia saint-poet Bhima Bhoi. The sacred well there is still in use and is an attraction for followers of the Mahima cult and tourists. Bhima Mandali is also designated as a tourist centre for pictographic script and paintings in Sambalpur district. These places add religious and artistic themes to the region’s temples and crafts.

Landscapes and experiences in nature

Hirakud is considered Asia’s largest artificial water body and covers 746 square kilometres. Devjharan offers a different kind of landscape: this major picnic spot in the district has a waterfall and a small dam. Three sides of the Devjharan Dam are surrounded by dense forest and mountains. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose between distinct landscape experiences: the vast expanse of Hirakud and the forested, mountainous surroundings of the dam.

At Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Usakothi, there are towers from which visitors can observe the jungle and wildlife. Debrigarh Nature Camp is close to the destination and offers birdwatching, guided jungle safaris and trekking tours. These nature destinations appeal to different interests, from bird and wildlife watching to guided activities and outdoor pursuits. The fish pond on the grounds of the Huma Temple is another, very different attraction. People gather there to feed the fish.

Choose your accommodation based on your travel interests

If you are mainly interested in culture and crafts, the temples, Sambalpuri Ikat and places associated with Bhima Bhoi offer plenty to consider when planning your trip. If landscapes and nature are more your focus, you can include Hirakud, Devjharan and the nearby wildlife-watching and activity options in your plans.

Visit the Sambalpur destination page. Other destinations to research: Koraput, Jharsuguda, Jajpur, Kendujhar, Balasore, Khordha and Bargarh.

For the broader travel overview: Odisha.