Let’s Explore the wonderful delights of Odisha tourism and the Top Picnic Spots of Sambalpur Odisha, including historic temples, vibrant festivals, and pristine landscapes. Sambalpur, a treasure buried in this cultural tapestry, enchants with its scenic splendour. From the majestic Hirakud Dam to the historic Samaleswari Temple, Sambalpur is a treasure mine of adventures. Immerse yourself in the lively culture, traditional handlooms, and welcoming hospitality of this region. Explore the cascading waterfalls and rich flora that create a magnificent setting. Whether you’re an adventurer or a history buff, Sambalpur guarantees a fascinating tour through Odisha’s rich past and natural grandeur.

Sambalpur: The Crown Jewel of Western Odisha.

Sambalpur, the gateway to Odisha’s west, is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Visit the breathtaking Hirakud Dam, the world’s longest earthen dam, or seek blessings at the revered Maa Samaleswari Temple. Relax with the cascading splendour of Gudguda Waterfall or be captivated by the architectural masterpiece of Huma, Lord Shiva’s leaning temple. Cultural fans will adore the bright folk dances and beautiful Pattachitra artwork, while foodies will savour the region’s distinct cuisine.

1. Huma Temple, Sambalpur Picnic Spot

village in the Sambalpur Subdivision, 23 kilometres south of Sambalpur, on the left side of the Mahanadi. The village is home to the Leaning temple, which was constructed during the time of Sambalpur’s fifth Raja, Baliar Singh, and is dedicated to Lord Siva.

The story of Gauda, the milkman, who used to cross the Mahanadi every day to go to a spot on the bank where the underlying rock protruded, is credited with starting the worship of Siva. Every day, he offered a portion of milk here, which the rock promptly consumed. This amazing occurrence sparked investigations, which ultimately resulted in the building of the current temple.

In addition to being a place of pilgrimage, Huma is also frequented by random people who are curious about the various species of fish in the river. Every year, in March, the foothill hosts a large fair in honour of Sivratri. Bimaleswar Siva is the ruling deity. Kudo fish are a unique species of fish that may be found in this area.It is reported that they are so kind that they will consume candies and other food items from the hands of those who take a bath near the temple. On auspicious days, they receive God’s prasad and are addressed by name. Since they are thought to be God’s property, no one attempts to capture them here.

Now for the primary draw, which is the temple’s slanted structure. Based on our team’s examination and interviews, no one was able to provide a satisfactory response. The main temple leaned in one direction, whereas smaller temples tilted in different directions, which was unexpected. Additionally, everything within the temple complex, or the temple’s borders, including the boundaries, was discovered to be slanted. According to the peasants and priests, the angle of inclination has not changed in the last forty or fifty years. But the explanation for the structure’s tilt could be geological; perhaps the structure of the earth’s crust is uneven. Regarding the inclination, it is impossible to determine if the angle is trending upward or downward. To do that, a measurement system of some kind should be provided so that it may be accurately analyzed, such as in the Pissa Leaning Tower.

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2. Hirakud Dam, (one of the Best Picnic Spot in Sambalpur)

Situated about 15 km north of Sambalpur, the world’s largest earthen dam spans the vast Mahanadi River, which drains an area of 1,33,090 sq km, more than twice the size of Sri Lanka. The dam is a sight to behold. Most of the Hirakud dam’s material is made of soil, concrete, and masonry, enough to pave a road eight meters wide from Kanyakumari to Kashmir and from Amritsar to Dibrugarh in Assam.

With a surface size of 746 square kilometres and a shoreline spanning 640 kilometres, the reservoir creates the largest artificial lake in Asia from horizon to horizon. A twenty-one-kilometre trip along the dyke provides a singular encounter with serene tranquillity and the grandeur of nature.

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3. Maa Ghanteswari Temple, (Spiritual picnic spot in sambalpur)

The Maa Ghanteswari Temple is among Sambalpur’s most revered and stunning locations. As the name suggests, bells (Ghanti) are heard everywhere. Once their desires are granted, people present Maa with bells. Every day, a sizable number of pilgrims from all around the state come to this location.

This is treated as Heart of Chipilima (a great picnic location). This temple area’s unique feature is the thousands of bells that hang everywhere—it’s the only location of its kind in Orissa. Maa Ghanteswari Temple is situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River, 33 kilometres to the southwest of Sambalpur. It used to play a significant part in navigation. The name “lighthouse without light” applied to it. The goddess Ghanteswari is the source of the place’s name. Previously, there were several large bells here, and the wind helped them to produce a tremendous amount of sound, alerting the navigators to this dangerous location so they never went near it. Due to the convergence of three tributaries from the Mahanadi River, there is a whirlpool-forming tremorous water current in this area. As a result, numerous boats that were approaching this location drowned. Here, there is a lot of wind, and the bells were making noise thanks to it. Since the Hirakud dam was built, this area is now safer.

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4. Gudguda Waterfall, (Picnic Spots of Sambalpur)

It was called a lighthouse without light. The place got its name from the goddess Ghanteswari. Earlier there were some big size bells on this spot and with the help of wind those were creating an enormous sound which made the navigators aware of this trechorous spot and they never came near it. This area is the conglomeration of three streams of water of river Mahanadi, the water current here is very treacherous forming a whirlpool. Due to this many boats were drowned while nearing this spot. Here the wind blows quite heavily and with the help of it the bells were producing sound. Now after the construction of the Hirakud dam, this spot became safer.

You will adore this location since it offers a serene escape from the busy and stressful life you lead. Please be aware that there is a tiny waterfall that you must over before reaching the exact location. If you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, this waterfall is easily traversed. Maruti Van and Maruti 800 should have no trouble navigating this by Moonson time. Three cascading waterfalls that have skillfully chiselled their way through the rocks can be seen here. This location is excellent for mountain trekking as well. If you intend to visit this location, don’t forget to bring hiking shoes. Let’s not forget that the reason the water pouring over these falls is so cold is that the sun’s rays are seldom ever exposed to the water, which is shaded on all sides. Once you examine the photos that were taken there, you can quickly learn more about the location.

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5. Maa Samaleswari Temple, (The best Place in Sambalpur)

The patron goddess of Sambalpur, Shree Shree Samaleswari, is a powerful religious figure in the western regions of the Indian states of Orissa and Chhattisgarh. From ancient times, the mother goddess Samaleswari, also known as Jagatjanani, Adishakti, Mahalaxmi, and Mahasaraswati, has been worshipped on the banks of the Mahanadi river.

The temple is located in an area with a rich cultural history. The Sambalpur region has long been referred to as Hirakhanda. According to the French traveller Tavernier and the English historian Edward Gibbon, diamonds were exported from Sambalpur to Rome, and Ptolemy named the location Sambalak.

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6. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary,Sambalpur

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, a tribute to the vast biodiversity of the state, is tucked away in the heart of Odisha. This sanctuary, which is close to Sambalpur, offers a refuge for those who enjoy the outdoors and wildlife equally. It is surrounded by virgin natural scenery.

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the edge of the Hirakud Reservoir and spans a large region, offering a distinctive combination of terrestrial and aquatic environments. Because of the sanctuary’s varied geography, which includes hills, valleys, grasslands, and water bodies, a wide range of plants and animals may coexist peacefully. Numerous wildlife species may be found in Debrigarh, making it a haven for those who love the outdoors. Elephants, several types of antelope, sambar, barking deer, and spotted deer are among the many animals that call the sanctuary home. With both local and migratory birds decorating the skies, birdwatchers may enjoy the diversity of birds.

Boaters can enjoy a peaceful environment at the Hirakud Reservoir, which is close to the sanctuary. A boat ride allows visitors to enjoy the gorgeous views of the reservoir and the verdant surroundings.

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7. Cattle Island, Sambalpur (Natural Beauty of Sambalpur)

Situated amidst the Mahanadi’s gentle waters, Cattle Island is accessible via a serene boat ride from Sambalpur. The island stands as a testament to the picturesque beauty that defines Sambalpur’s landscapes, creating an oasis of tranquillity away from the bustling city.

As its name suggests, Cattle Island features a unique cattle culture that is essential to the area’s farming methods. Native cattle are essential to farming operations because they are allowed to graze freely. The island’s distinct appeal is enhanced by the peaceful cohabitation of agriculture and cattle ranching, which creates a realistic picture of rural life that is sustainable.
The journey to Cattle Island begins with a delightful boat ride along the Mahanadi River. As the boat gently glides through the water, visitors are treated to panoramic views of riverbanks adorned with lush greenery. The island itself unfolds as a haven of tranquillity, inviting exploration of its trails and immersion in the serenity of rural life.