Situated on the bank of the Mahanadi River, Sambalpur offers a glimpse into the rich shade of western Odisha’s traditions and allure. Sambalpur is the district headquarters of Sambalpur, a city full of history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.
Sambalpur has a rich historical legacy back centuries. The Sambalpur region has witnessed the rise and fall of many empires leaving behind an abundance of architectural marvels and historical landmarks.
The region is famous for its handlooms textile, majorly fabrics and sarees. The region also serves a unique- tie-and-dye technique, which is known as Bandhakala, which created mesmerizing patterns and makes the region highly looked after.
Built on River Mahanadi, the Hirakud Dam is one of the longest eastern dams on the globe. The dam is located near Sambalpur and is an example of outstanding engineering and a major tourist attraction.
The region opens out as a cultural haven with its temple, natural beauty, culinary delights, and historical significance. The region has also prioritized education and healthcare.
Some major crops grown in the Sambalpur region are paddy, cotton, oilseeds, maize, pulses, fruits, and vegetables. While exploring the local markets and savoring traditional cuisine is a must-do in Sambalpur. Offers a vibrant culinary scene.
Quick Summary of Sambalpur District.
Facts About Sambhalpur, Odisha | |
Name of Place | Sambalpur |
Type of City or Place | District Headquarters |
District | Sambalpur |
Current DM / Collector of District | Ananya Das,IAS |
State | Odisha |
Administrative Structure | Sambalpur District HQ |
Pin Code | 768001 |
Subdivisions Details | 3 sub divison |
Tehsil Details | 20 Tehsil |
Block Details | 9 blocks |
Railway Station Available | 5 railway station Available |
Nearest Railway station | Sambhalpur City , Sambhalpur Junction |
No of Trains (Up/ Down) | 60 Trains |
Airport Available | Not Available |
Nearest Airport | Veer Surender Sai Airport, Jharusguda (Distance 61 Km ) |
Distance from State Capital | 274 Km |
City/ Town Population | 2,00,564 |
District Population | 1.041,099 |
University in Town/ City | 2 main univeristies out which 200 collges are affilated |
Medical College | Veer Surender Medical College |
Eng College | Badriprasad Institute of Technology, Sambhalpur Silicon Institute of Tenchonology, Sambhalpur |
Other Degree Colleges | IIM Sambhalpur (Indian Institue of Managment) |
CBSE/ ICSE Private Schools | Delhi Public School Kendriya Vidhalya- Total 3 branches Odisha Adash Vidhyalya Shri Surender Sai Public School And many more Public schools are available in city |
Govt Sr Sec School | Available |
Apparels Brands Available | Peter England, Twills, Allen solly, Reliance, u.s polo Assan |
QSR Brands Available | Dominos & Pizza Hut |
Major Retailers (National / International Chains only) | V mart Bazaar Kolkata M Bazaar Trends Vishal Mega Mart |
Jockey Exclusive Store | |
First CRY | |
Twills Store | |
Shopping Mall | City Centre Mall |
Max Mall | |
Citykart | |
No of Hotels listed on MMT/ Goibibo/ Booking.com | 33 |
5 Star Hotels (National / International chain hotel) | Regenta Inn, Sambhalpur |
Recommended Hotels | |
Budget hotels | Hotel Li-N-Ja Hotel Uphar Hotel Jaggi |
Private Banks | 12 |
Government Banks | 8 |
Famous Tourist Places | 1. Hirakud Dam |
2. Debrigrh Wildlife sanctuary | |
3. Huma temple | |
Famour Temples in City | 1. Samaleswari Temple |
2. Ghanteswari Temple | |
3. Bimaleswar Temple |
Population Mix Of Sambalpur
Religion | Percentage |
Hindu | 88.70% |
Muslim | 0.86% |
Christians | 1.84% |
Sikh | 0.86% |
Buddhist | 0.06% |
Jain | 0.01% |
Others | 0.13% |
Not stated | 0.28% |
Sub-divison of Sambalpur
Sambalpur has got three sub-divisions namely:
- Sambalpur- 46,830( Population)
- Rairakhol- 55,502( Population)
- Kuchinda- 81,668( Population)
The region has got 9 Tahasils, 9 Blocks, 24 police stations, 1394 Revenue villages and 138 Gram Panchayats.
Weather of Sambalpur
The most favorable time to visit Sambalpur is during winter and early spring months, from November to March when the weather becomes pleasant and comfortable. The region experiences a subtropical climate.
The region offers several notable places to visit. Below are some major notable places to visit:
- Huma Temple
- Deer Park
- Ghantaeswari Temple
- Pataneswari Temple
- Budharaja Temple
- Gudguda Water Fall
- Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuary
- Hirakud Dam
- Maa Samaleswari Temple
- Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Famous Temples of Sambalpur
The famous temples of Sambalpur offer a blend of spiritual experiences, cultural heritage, and marvelous architecture. The place is home to several temples that hold cultural significance. Here are some notable temples of the region:
- Huma Temple:- Situated near Sambalpur, the temple is renowned for its leaning structure. The temple is dedicated to lord shiva and stands titled because of the flow of the Mnahanadi river.
- Ghanteswari Temple:- Located near the Hirakud Dam, the temple is dedicated to the goddess Ghanteswari, who is another form of goddess Shakti. The surrounding hills and greenery add to the spiritual ambiance. The temple is known for its unique tradition of offering bells to the goddess.
- Pataneswari Temple:- Located on the bank of the Mahanadi River, The temple is dedicated to the goddess Pantaneswari. The temple is known for its religious significance and serene ambiance.
- Maa Samaleswari Temple:- The temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated temple to Goddess Samaleswari, who is an avatar of Goddess Shakti. The temple is known for offering a wide showcase of architectural beauty. The major highlight of the temple is the celebration of the annual Sitalsasthi festival.
- Chandi Mandir:- Situated in Sambalpur city, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, a form of Goddess Durga. The temple is known for its elaborate rituals and celebrations during Navaratri.
Major Festivals of Sambalpur
The region holds several regional festivals and events that hold significant cultural and religious importance. Below are some of the notable regional festivals and events:
- Sitalsasthi:- It is a grand festival celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva and Goddess
- Parvati. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Sambalpur, Particularly at Samaleswari Temple. The festival involves the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Nuakhai:-It is an agricultural festival celebrated in the region and other parts of Odisha. It marks the harvest season and the offering of the first grains from the new crop to the deities.
- Bhai Juntia:- A unique festival celebrated in Sambalpur, the festival is dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. It is believed that the festival strengthens the bond of siblings and is marked by an exchange of gifts and blessings.
- Dhanu Yatra:- The festival takes place in the town of Bargarh near Sambalpur. The entire town transforms into a stage, depicting various scenes from the mythological tales of Krishna.
- Ghantu festival:- It is a unique festival celebrated in the Nuapada region of
Sambalpur. The festival is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. The festival is believed to bring prosperity and ward off evil spirits.
Budget hotels in Sambalpur
Mentioning some budget hotels in Sambalpur so that you can easily check out them as per your budget and convenience.
- Harkishan Lodge:- This Lodge is located at Baraiplai Jmroad” opp” realiancepump, Tentel Para, Sambalpur. The hotel provides basic amenities like free wifi, air conditioning, a parking facility, and an airport shuttle. The stay price starts from Rs 454 and can vary according to your preference.
- Hotel LI-N-Ja:- The hotel is located at VSS Marg, Sakhipada, Sambalpur. The hotel offers basic amenities like free breakfast, free wifi, a parking facility, and a restaurant. The stay prices start from Rs 893 and can vary according to your preference.
- Hotel Upahar Palace:- The hotel is situated on VSS Marg, Hans Nagar, Sambalpur. The hotel offers basic amenities like free breakfast, free wifi, and a parking facility. The stay prices start from Rs1,657 and can vary according to your preference.
- Hotel KC Palace:- The hotel is located at FXWG+3GW, GJ SH 6, Panchgochhia,
Sambalpur. The hotel offers basic amenities like free breakfast, free wifi, and a parking facility. The stay prices start at Rs 1,271 and can vary according to your preference.
- Hotel Kaveri:- The hotel is located at NH6, Near Private Bus Stand, Ainthapali,
Sambalpur. The hotel offers amenities like food, air conditioning, family-friendly, room services, and a restaurant facility. The stay prices start at Rs 1,692 and can vary according to your preference.
Premium hotels in Sambalpur
Now, suggesting some of the premium hotels in and near Sambalpur so that you can also have a look at these hotels before planning your trip:
- Regenta Inn Sambalpur
- Hotel Pearl Orchid
- Royale Inn
- Hotel Saket
- Hotel Silver Moon
Local Market of Sambalpur
Some of the well-known markets in Sambalpur where you can explore and experience the local shopping culture are:-
- Gole Bazar Market
- Daily Market Budharaja
- Sambalpuri Saree Market
- New Daily Market
- Municipal Market 1954 Sambalpur
Famous Food of Sambalpur
The region is known for its rich culinary heritage, which offers a wide variety of delicious and flavorsome dishes that reflect regional flavors and local ingredients. Some famous food of the region is:
- Bhat Pakhala:- It is a traditional dish popular out there and in western Odisha. It is a fermented rice dish served with water, curd, and various accompaniments like fried fish, fried vegetables, and pickles.
- Kukra Jhol:- It is a traditional Chicken curry dish from this region. It is known for its rich flavourful gravy that is made of a variety of spices and ingredients. The dish is served with steamed rice or roti.
- Pudala Baigan:- Also known as Potala Baigana or Stuffed Brinjal. It is a flavourful and spicy preparation where small brinjals are stuffed with a mixture of spices and then cooked to perfection.
- Panas Tarkari:- it is also known as Jackfruit curry. It is made with raw or tender jackfruit and a blend of aromatic spices which put on so much flavor to the dish.
- Jhuri Bhaja:- It is a popular crispy snack served in Sambalpur and other parts of Odisha. It is made by deep-frying a mixture of finely chopped vegetables and spices, resulting in a crunchy and flavourful snack. The snacks are often enjoyed with tea.
Pure Veg Restaurant In Sambalpur
Listing down the name of restaurants for your convenience that serves vegetarian food:
- Bhatia Hotel
- Trupti Restaurant
- Maa Samaleswari Chowmin
- Shree Rajasthani Thali
- Hotel Suman Marwari Basa
- The Vega
- Dhaba by Kedia’s
Jain Restaurants In Sambalpur
Finding Jain-specific restaurants may become a little challenging, as Jain cuisine is relatively niche. Mentioned below are some of the restaurants that offer Jain food and can make Jain food on demand:
- The vega
- Hotel Suman Marwari Basa
- Trupti Restaurant
Shopping Malls In Sambalpur
Here are some popular Shopping destinations in Sambalpur:
- City Centre Mall
- The Shopping House
- The Space City Mall
- Anand World
- Smart Bazaar
Retail Stores In Sambalpur
Here are some common types of retail stores in Sambalpur:
- Nityaprem Complex
- Shuvam Store
- V-Mart
- Anand World
- Kalinga Traders
Multiplex In Sambalpur
Sambalpur has a multiplex which is Eylex Fun N Films and 7-D Cinema Halls located in the city center mall, Modipada, Sambalpur, Odisha
Major Brands Available In Sambalpur
Here are some of the brands and stores that you may come across in Sambalpur:
- For Faishon:- V Mart, V Bazaar, Pantaloons, Peter England, etc
- For Electronics:- L.G, Samsung, Voltas, Haier, etc
- For Footwear:- Khadim’s, Flite, Bata, Reliance, Relaxo, Etc
- For watches:- Titan, sonata, Fastrack, Casio, etc
- For Jewelry:- Jyotsana, IRA Jewels, MR Jeweller, etc
- For Home Appliances:- Voltas, cello, Samsung, etc
Best Location For Business In Sambalpur
The best location for business in Sambalpur is the Sambalpur city center area,
Budharaja area, Ainthapali, Veer Surendra Sai Univeristy Technology area, and Hirakud Industrial area as these areas have better accessibility, infrastructure, competition, and target market.
Schools in Sambalpur
Here are some prominent schools of Sambalpur:
- Indian Public School, Sambalpur
- Dayanand Public School, Sambalpur
- DAV Public School, Sambalpur
- Kendriya Vidyalaya, Sambalpur
- Guru Nanak Public School
Colleges In Sambalpur
Below are some of the prominent colleges in Sambalpur:
- Silicon Institute Of Technology, Sambalpur
- Government College Of Physical Education, Sambalpur
- Sambalpur Nursing College, Dhanupali
- Gayatri College Of Pharmacy, Sambalpur
- Lajpat Rai College, Sambalpur
- Sambalpur University Institute Of Information Technology, Sambalpur
- Indian Institute of Management, Sambalpur
Hospitals In Sambalpur
Some major hospitals present in Sambalpur:
- Sanjivani Hospital
- District Headquarters Hospital
- Aarogyam Hospital
- Life Care Hospital
- Ashirwad Nursing Home
- Jesus Mary Joseph Hospital
Industries Or Factory In Sambalpur
The district’s strategic location near the coast and its well-developed infrastructure make it an attractive destination for industrial and economic activities. These are some notable industries and factories operating in the region:
- JSW Bhushan Power Steel
- TP Western Odisha Distribution
- Jai Durga Flour Mill
- Maa Merakani Rice Industies
- Unifood India Pvt.Ltd.
Upcoming Project In Sambalpur
Some major upcoming projects in Sambalpur are:
- Implementation of A 10 Mw Biomass Based Power Plant
- For lane
- Reliable Hi-Tech Infrastructure to develop a sponge iron manufacturing unit with a capacity of 200 tpd at Rengail Block
- Set up a substation with Sas and associated transmission lines at Barma
- Set up an 2, 400 Mw 3 X 800 Mw Coal Based Thermal Power Unit
- Set up of Renewable Energy Plant
- Construction of Third Line Track
- Construction of Freight Train Maintenance Facility Roh Depo
Major Agricultural Crops In Sambalpur
The region is an agricultural region with fertile land and favorable climatic conditions. Here are some of the major crops grown in Sambalpur:
- Paddy
- Pulses
- Oilseeds
- Maize
- Fruits
How To Reach Sambalpur
Some general ways to reach Sambalpur:
- By Air:- The nearest airport to Sambalpur is Sambhal Airport(VHEK). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or cab, or either you can use public transport.
- By Train:- There are a few stations from where you can reach to Sambalpur. The stations are Sambalpur Junction, Sambalpur Road Railway Station (SBPD), Hriakud Railway Station(HKG), Sambalpur City Railway Station(SBPY), and Maneswar Railway Station(MANE). From there you can hire a taxi or cab, or either you can use public transport.
- By Road:- Being well-developed in its infrastructure the Sambalpur region is well-connected to cities and neighbouring states. NH-55 and NH-53 pass through Sambalpur Connecting major cities. State-run and private buses operate regular services to Jagatsinghapur from various nearby cities.
Distance from Bhubaneshwar To Sambhalpur
The state capital is Bhubaneshwar and the distance between Bhubaneshwar to Sambalpur is approximately 273.6 kilometers.
Buses from Bhubaneshwar To Sambalpur
Bus facilities are available from Bhubaneshwar to Sambalpur:
- Hari Travels:- Departs from Bhubaneshwar bus stop at 9:00, 8:00, and 8:20 P.M. Arrives at Sambalpur stop at 5:00, 5:30, 5:15A.M Fair:- Rs590 onwards
- OSTRC:- Departs from Baramunda Bus stop at 6:45A.M, 5:00P.M, 7:00P.M and Arrives Sambalpur at 5:50PM, 3:45A.M, and 4:13 Fair:-Rs 424 onwards.
Trains From State Capital To Sambalpur
There are a few stations from where you can reach Sambalpur From Bhubaneswar railway station. The stations are Sambalpur Junction, Sambalpur Road Railway Station (SBPD), Hriakud Railway Station(HKG), Sambalpur City Railway Station(SBPY), and Maneswar Railway Station(MANE). There are many trains available to these stations from Bhubaneshwar railway station. The listing below few trains from Bhubaneshwar to Sambalpur Junction:
18126- Rourkela Intercity-Express 12893- Balangir Intercity SF Express 20472- Puri- Bikaner SF Express 18304- Sambalpur Intercity Express 20861- Ahmedabad SF Express 18452- Tapaswini Express
18425- Puri-Durg Express
You can check out more trains to the stations from Bhubaneshwar on WWW.IRCTC.COM
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FAQ’s-Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Capital Sambalpur?
Sambhalpur is the district HQ and is one the 30th District of Odisha, Odisha state capital is Bhubaneshwar.
Which language is spoken in Sambalpur?
The official language for Odisha is Oriya or Odiya. Sambhalpur is in the western part of Odisha, Sambhalpuri Oriya language is bit differ from Odiya language which is spoken in coastal part of Odisha.
Which river flows near Sambalpur?
Mahanadi River, this is one the major river in Odisha, its starts from Raipur Chhattisgarh and ends at Bay of Bengal after covering 851km.
What is Sambalpur famous for?
Sambalpur is famous for Handloom textile works, which are popularly known as Sambalpuri Textile. Also the Sambhalpuri Saree are very famous.
Is there any IIM in Sambalpur?
Yes there is a IIM Sambhalpur.