Sambalpur Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Sambalpur including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Sambalpur

Located in the northwestern part of Odisha, Sambalpur is a popular tourist destination that offers a range of attractions for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The town is known for its intricate Sambalpuri sarees, Ikat weaving, and terracotta handicrafts. With a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural attractions, and delicious local cuisine, there is plenty to experience in Sambalpur.

List of Places to Visit in Sambalpur

Sambalpur is home to several culturally important attractions, natural wonders, and adventure activities. Here are some of the top places to visit in Sambalpur:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sambalpur University Museum
  • Hirakud Dam
  • Jagannath Temple
  • Cattle Island

Natural Attractions of Sambalpur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Ushakot Lake
  • Ghanteswari Temple
  • Pradhanpat Waterfall

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sambalpur

Sambalpur has many exciting hiking and biking routes that offer visitors the opportunity to explore its natural beauty up close. Some popular routes include:

  • Hirakud Dam to Chiplima
  • Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Kulabira Hill

Best Things to Do in Sambalpur: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Sambalpur has many other exciting things to do for travelers. Here are some of the best activities and tours to enjoy in Sambalpur:

  • Visit local markets and shops for traditional souvenirs and handicrafts
  • Explore the Hirakud Dam and take a boat tour
  • Spend a day at the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Sample local cuisine at a food festival

Week-Long Itinerary for Sambalpur

To make the most of your time in Sambalpur, here is a week-long itinerary that covers some of the best attractions and activities:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Hirakud Dam and Sambalpur University Museum
Day 2 Explore Jagannath Temple and Cattle Island
Day 3 Go hiking or biking at Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 4 Visit Ushakot Lake and Pradhanpat Waterfall
Day 5 Spend a day at Ghanteswari Temple
Day 6 Take a boat tour of Hirakud Dam
Day 7 Sample local cuisine and shop for souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Sambalpur

Sambalpur is famous for its delicious local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sambalpuri Thali
  • Pakhala
  • Ambil
  • Chhenapoda

Local Beverages

  • Sattu
  • Amla Sherbat
  • Lassi

Where to Stay in Sambalpur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sambalpur has a range of accommodation options available for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • Sheela Towers
  • The Gloria Grand
  • Hotel Urmee
  • Hotel Niiki

What to Buy in Sambalpur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sambalpur is known for its Sambalpuri sarees, ikat weaving, and terracotta handicrafts. Visitors can find these traditional items at local markets and shops in the town.

Local Culture and Customs of Sambalpur

Sambalpur has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Traditional dance performances such as the Dalkhai and Karma Dance are popular in the area, and visitors are welcome to witness these performances.

Best Time to Visit Sambalpur

The best time to visit Sambalpur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sambalpur

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Visit local markets and shops to support the local economy
  • Explore the natural beauty of Sambalpur

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Litter in natural areas
  • Engage in activities that harm wildlife

Safety and Health

Safety in Sambalpur

Sambalpur is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should take basic precautions to protect themselves and their belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Sambalpur

Visitors to Sambalpur should ensure that they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and should take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites.

Getting to Sambalpur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sambalpur is well-connected to other parts of India via roadways, railways, and airways. Here are some transportation options to consider when planning a trip to Sambalpur:

Airports Near Sambalpur

  • Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (300 km)

Bus Stations Near Sambalpur

  • Veer Surendra Sai Bus Stand

Other Options

  • The Hirakud Express and Sambalpur Express are two of the main railway lines that connect Sambalpur to other parts of India.

How to Get Around in Sambalpur

Visitors can hire taxis and auto-rickshaws to get around Sambalpur. Buses are also available for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Sambalpur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sambalpur is a great base for exploring nearby destinations in Odisha, including:

  • Bhubaneswar
  • Puri
  • Chilika Lake

Conclusion

Sambalpur is a beautiful destination that offers a range of attractions for travelers. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and delicious local cuisine, it should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Left Dyke of Hirakud Dam Left Dyke of Hirakud Dam Samleswari Temple Samleswari Temple ''Pakhala'' is eaten in Sambalpur with cucumber, tomato, carrot and salad. ''Pakhala'' is eaten in Sambalpur with cucumber, tomato, carrot and salad.