Sambalpur is a city in the state of Odisha. The city is the fifth-largest city in the state of Odisha. The city is located on the banks of the river Mahanadi. Sambalpur is an ancient site in India where prehistoric settlements are located. The city is rich in rivers, majestic hills, lush forests, and rich wildlife. The famous textile and handloom industry is famous in this city. The sari of this city is famous all over the world. Apart from that, Sambalpur is famous for its rich tribal life with its distinctive folk songs-dances and culture. The city is named after Goddess Samaleshwari who is considered to be the chief goddess of the city.

Visiting place in Sambalpur 

Samaleswari Temple

The Samaleshwari temple is dedicated to the goddess known as ‘Ma’, who is known as Mata in the original society. The Samaleswari temple is located on the banks of the river Mahanadi. The goddess in this temple is also known as Jagannath Adishakti, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasvaswati. This goddess is called the chief goddess of the region. The orbit in this temple is made of a type of stone that is as durable as granite, cemented with lime mortar.

Hirakud Dam

Hirakud Dam

Hirakud Dam is built around the river Mahanadi. The dam is considered to be the longest man-made dam in India. The dam was built in 1956. Near the Hirakud Dam is a hill called Budharaja Hill, which is famous for the Budharaja Temple at its top. For nature lovers, this dam is considered to be one of the most excellent and beautiful places to visit. It is one of the first major multipurpose river valley projects launched after India’s independence.

Leaning Temple of Huma

A leaning temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple was built in the 17th century. This temple is the only tilting temple in the world. In this temple, only the top tilts when the peak is perpendicular to the ground. The basement of the temple slightly deviates from its original arrangement and as a result, the body of the temple is tilted.

Deer Park

Deer Park

This is a mini zoo. This zoo is mainly for deer. Four-horned antelope, barking deer, leopard, rattle, monkey, sloth bear, civet, python, parakeet, peacock, and many more are found here. It is located in the suburbs of Sambalpur. Many people come to visit this zoo from November to March. The peacocks in this zoo attract tourists who come there.