bigtravelbuzzSambalpur is a city located in the western part of the Indian state of Odisha. It is a beautiful city surrounded by hills and forests and is known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and scenic beauty. Here are some of the top things to do and places to visit in Sambalpur:
Hirakud Dam: The Hirakud Dam is one of the largest dams in the world and is a major tourist attraction in Sambalpur. The dam is located on the Mahanadi River and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Samaleswari Temple: Samaleswari Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Samaleswari, located in the heart of Sambalpur. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu mythology and culture.
Cattle Island: Cattle Island is a beautiful island located in the middle of the Hirakud Reservoir, formed by the Hirakud Dam. The island is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and is a popular spot for boating and picnicking.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful nature reserve located about 40 km from Sambalpur. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants, and offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Ghanteswari Temple: Ghanteswari Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Ghanteswari, located on a hilltop overlooking the city of Sambalpur. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
These are just a few of the many things to do and places to visit in Sambalpur. With its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural surroundings, Sambalpur is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Odisha.
Best Time To Visit Sambalpur
The best time to visit Sambalpur is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and dry. During this time, the temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The monsoon season in Sambalpur lasts from June to September and the region receives heavy rainfall during this time, which can cause travel disruptions and make it difficult to explore the city’s outdoor attractions. The summer months of April and May can be very hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C, making it uncomfortable for tourists to explore the city. Therefore, the best time to visit Sambalpur is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant and dry, and you can explore the city’s attractions without any inconvenience.
Things to Do in Sambalpur
Sambalpur is a beautiful city located in the western part of Odisha, India. It is known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some things you can do in Sambalpur:
Visit the Hirakud Dam: The Hirakud Dam is one of the largest dams in the world and is located on the Mahanadi River. It is a popular tourist attraction in Sambalpur and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Explore the Samaleswari Temple: The Samaleswari Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Samaleswari. It is one of the most important temples in the region and is known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
Go for a Picnic at Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: The Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful natural reserve located near Sambalpur. It is home to a variety of wildlife and offers great opportunities for picnics, hiking, and bird watching.
Take a Stroll at Gandhi Minar: The Gandhi Minar is a popular landmark in Sambalpur and offers great views of the city. It is also a great place for a leisurely stroll and to enjoy some peace and quiet.
Visit the Cattle Island: The Cattle Island is a small island located in the middle of the Hirakud Reservoir. It is home to a large number of cattle and offers great opportunities for fishing and boating.
Shop at the Sambalpuri Saree Outlets: Sambalpur is famous for its Sambalpuri sarees, which are known for their unique designs and quality. There are several outlets in the city where you can buy these sarees.
Visit the Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary: The Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Sambalpur and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. It is a great place for wildlife enthusiasts.
Enjoy the Sambalpuri Folk Dance: Sambalpur is known for its vibrant folk dance, which is performed during festivals and special occasions. You can enjoy this dance form at local events and cultural shows.
Visit the Kandhara Temple: The Kandhara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in the outskirts of Sambalpur. It is known for its intricate carvings and is a great place for history buffs.
Taste the Local Cuisine: Sambalpur is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes like dalma, chhena poda, and machha besara. Make sure to try some of these dishes at local restaurants and street food stalls.
How to get around in Sambalpur
There are several modes of transportation available to get around in Sambalpur:
Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Sambalpur. They are easily available and are ideal for short distances.
Taxis: Taxis are also available in Sambalpur, and they are a more comfortable option for getting around the city.
Buses: Sambalpur has a good bus network, with both government and private buses available. Buses are a cheap and convenient way to travel around the city.
Motorbikes and scooters: Motorbikes and scooters are available on rent in Sambalpur, and they are a great option for exploring the city at your own pace.
Bicycle: Bicycles can also be rented in Sambalpur, and they are a great option for exploring the city at a leisurely pace.
It is important to negotiate the fare before boarding any mode of transportation in Sambalpur. Additionally, it is advisable to take licensed and authorized transport services to ensure your safety.
Where to eat in Sambalpur
Sambalpur is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are many places where you can enjoy the local food. Here are some of the best places to eat in Sambalpur:
The Orchard: The Orchard is a popular restaurant in Sambalpur known for its vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. It serves a variety of dishes, including Chinese, Indian, and continental cuisine.
Midtown Cafe: Midtown Cafe is a popular cafe in Sambalpur that serves a variety of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. It is a great place for a quick bite.
Gokul Bhojanalaya: Gokul Bhojanalaya is a vegetarian restaurant in Sambalpur that serves delicious local cuisine. It is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
Chung Wah: Chung Wah is a Chinese restaurant in Sambalpur that serves a variety of Chinese dishes. It is a great place for a family dinner or a romantic meal.
Hotel Sheela Towers: Hotel Sheela Towers is a popular hotel in Sambalpur that has a restaurant serving a variety of dishes, including Indian and Chinese cuisine.
Sai Ram Fast Food: Sai Ram Fast Food is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of snacks, including chaat, samosas, and sandwiches.
The Food House: The Food House is a popular restaurant in Sambalpur that serves a variety of dishes, including Indian and Chinese cuisine.
Sam’s Pizza: Sam’s Pizza is a popular pizza place in Sambalpur that serves a variety of pizzas and other Italian dishes.
Cafe Coffee Day: Cafe Coffee Day is a popular chain of cafes in Sambalpur that serves a variety of coffee, tea, and snacks.
Sankara Restaurant: Sankara Restaurant is a popular vegetarian restaurant in Sambalpur that serves a variety of dishes, including North Indian and South Indian cuisine.
Famous street stalls in Sambalpur
Sambalpur is known for its street food, and there are many street stalls where you can enjoy the local cuisine. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Sambalpur:
Sahu Chat Bhandar: Sahu Chat Bhandar is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of chaat, including papdi chaat, dahi bhalla, and aloo tikki.
Singh Sandwich and Pizza: Singh Sandwich and Pizza is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of sandwiches and pizzas.
Rathi’s Pakodi Bhandar: Rathi’s Pakodi Bhandar is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of pakoras, including onion, potato, and spinach.
Kalia Chop: Kalia Chop is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of chops, including aloo chop, chicken chop, and mutton chop.
Bina Panipuri: Bina Panipuri is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of panipuri and other chaat.
Raju Sahu Chat Bhandar: Raju Sahu Chat Bhandar is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of chaat, including dahi bhalla and aloo tikki.
Bablu’s Kulfi: Bablu’s Kulfi is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of kulfi, including mango kulfi, pistachio kulfi, and malai kulfi.
Satyam Sweets: Satyam Sweets is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of sweets, including rasgulla, gulab jamun, and peda.
Bheem Chhena Poda: Bheem Chhena Poda is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a traditional dessert made with paneer and sugar.
Sai Ram Fast Food: Sai Ram Fast Food is a popular street food stall in Sambalpur that serves a variety of snacks, including chaat, samosas, and sandwiches.
Where to stay in Sambalpur
Luxury accommodation
Sambalpur has a few luxury accommodation options for travelers who are looking for a comfortable stay. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Sambalpur:
Hotel Sheela Towers: Hotel Sheela Towers is a popular luxury hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms, suites, and executive rooms. It has a restaurant, a bar, and a banquet hall.
The Orchard: The Orchard is a luxury hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, a bar, and a banquet hall.
Hotel Harjit Residency: Hotel Harjit Residency is a luxury hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, a bar, and a banquet hall.
Imperial Celebration: Imperial Celebration is a luxury hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, a bar, and a banquet hall.
Hotel Ujjawal: Hotel Ujjawal is a luxury hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, a bar, and a banquet hall.
All of these luxury hotels offer modern amenities, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and 24-hour room service. They are located in convenient locations, making it easy to explore the city’s attractions.
Where to stay in Sambalpur
Budget accommodation
Sambalpur has several budget accommodation options for travelers who are looking for affordable yet comfortable stays. Here are some of the best budget hotels in Sambalpur:
Hotel The Grand SIBA: Hotel The Grand SIBA is a popular budget hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It has a restaurant and provides 24-hour room service.
Hotel Samrat: Hotel Samrat is a budget hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It has a restaurant and provides 24-hour room service.
Hotel Alok: Hotel Alok is a budget hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It has a restaurant and provides 24-hour room service.
Hotel Ujjawal Palace: Hotel Ujjawal Palace is a budget hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It has a restaurant and provides 24-hour room service.
Hotel Dolphin: Hotel Dolphin is a budget hotel in Sambalpur that offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It has a restaurant and provides 24-hour room service.
All of these budget hotels provide essential amenities like air conditioning, TV, and clean bedding. They are located in convenient locations, making it easy to access the city’s attractions.
Travel Tips Sambalpur
If you are planning to visit Sambalpur, here are some travel tips to make your trip more enjoyable:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Sambalpur is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
Local transportation: Local transportation in Sambalpur includes auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before getting in.
Safety: Sambalpur is generally a safe city, but it is advisable to take precautions and avoid going out alone at night. Also, keep your valuables like cash, jewelry, and documents safe.
Food: Sambalpur is known for its delicious street food. However, it is advisable to avoid street food from unhygienic places and drink only bottled water.
Clothing: Sambalpur has a warm and humid climate, so wear light cotton clothes and comfortable footwear. It is advisable to cover your head and arms to protect yourself from the sun.
Language: The official language of Sambalpur is Odia, but Hindi and English are also widely spoken and understood.
Currency: The official currency of Sambalpur is the Indian rupee. ATMs are available in the city, and most shops and hotels accept credit and debit cards.
Tourist attractions: Sambalpur has several tourist attractions, including Hirakud Dam, Samaleswari Temple, and Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your visit.
Respect local customs: Sambalpur has a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious places, and seek permission before taking photographs.
Medical facilities: Sambalpur has several hospitals and medical facilities. It is advisable to carry your medical insurance card and consult a doctor if you experience any health issues.