Odishan Temples

Sambalpur Zoo (Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab Zoological Park) Entrance of Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab Zoological Park, Sambalpur About Sambalpur Zoo The Sambalpur Zoo , officially known as the Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab Zoological Park , is one of Western Odisha’s most beautiful and compact wildlife parks. Located near Motijharan , just 2 km from Sambalpur city centre, the zoo is surrounded by lush sal forests and small hillocks — making it a calm and refreshing green retreat for nature and animal lovers alike. Established in 1980 , the zoo covers nearly 35 hectares and houses an impressive variety of fauna and flora native to the region. The park focuses on education, conservation, and recreation , featuring attractive animal enclosures, the Aqua House , and the popular Nocturnal House . The Sambalpur Zoo is a peaceful wildlife spot surrounded by natural greenery. It is a perfect pla...

Hirakud Dam, Sambalpur Panoramic view of Hirakud Dam, Sambalpur About Hirakud Dam The Hirakud Dam across the Mahanadi River is one of India’s most iconic and monumental engineering marvels. Located about 15 km from Sambalpur city in Odisha, it was the first major multipurpose river valley project to be completed in independent India. Built to control floods, provide irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power, the dam transformed the economic landscape of Western Odisha and remains a source of pride for the state. Stretching over 4.8 km in length and forming the Hirakud Reservoir — one of Asia’s largest artificial lakes — it stands as a symbol of India’s post-independence vision for development, water management, and regional growth. Quick Facts Location: Near Sambalpur, Odisha (on Mahanadi River) Construction Started: 1946 Inaugurated: ...

Maa Samaleswari Temple Magnificent view of Maa Samaleswari Temple, Sambalpur About Maa Samaleswari Temple The Maa Samaleswari Temple in Sambalpur is one of Western Odisha’s most important Shakti Peethas and the spiritual heart of the region. Dedicated to Goddess Samaleswari — the presiding deity of Sambalpur — the temple stands gracefully on the banks of the Mahanadi River . The Goddess is revered as the Jagatjanani (Mother of the Universe) and is believed to protect the people of the region with her divine grace. The temple is not only a centre of pilgrimage but also the cultural nucleus of Sambalpur. From folk traditions to major festivals, the spiritual essence of Maa Samaleswari defines the cultural identity of Western Odisha. Quick Facts Location: Western bank of Mahanadi River, Sambalpur, Odisha Deity: Goddess Samaleswari (form ...

Maa Kali Temple, Huma, Sambalpur Sacred Kali Temple located near Huma village, Sambalpur About Kali Temple, Huma The Kali Temple near Huma village in Sambalpur district is a revered shrine dedicated to the fierce form of the Goddess. Situated close to the Leaning Temple of Huma , it represents the Shakti tradition deeply rooted in Western Odisha. Though small in size, the temple holds immense spiritual power and is believed to guard the Huma region from calamities caused by the mighty Mahanadi River. Quick Facts Location: Near Huma Temple, 23 km from Sambalpur Deity: Goddess Kali (form of Shakti) Built: Early modern period; associated with local kings of Sambalpur Architectural Style: Small Pidha Deula structure in Kalinga style Significance: Shakti worship, protection of the Huma temple complex Best Time to Visit: October – February ...

Leaning Temple of Huma The famous Leaning Temple of Huma, dedicated to Lord Shiva About the Leaning Temple of Huma The Leaning Temple of Huma , situated about 23 km south of Sambalpur on the banks of the Mahanadi River , is one of India’s most fascinating temples, renowned for its mysterious tilted structure . Dedicated to Lord Bimaleswar (Shiva) , this 17th-century shrine was built during the reign of the Baumara kings and stands as a living testament to Odisha’s engineering and spiritual heritage. Quick Facts Location: Huma village, 23 km from Sambalpur Deity: Lord Bimaleswar (Shiva) Built By: King Baliar Singh of the Chauhan dynasty, 17th century Architectural Style: Kalinga-style temple with a distinct lean River: Located on the bank of the Mahanadi River Famous For: Leaning structure and sacred fish ("Kudo" fish) that devotees feed ...

Chipilima Hydro Electric Project, Sambalpur View of Chipilima Hydro Electric Project on the Mahanadi River About Chipilima Hydro Electric Project The Chipilima Hydro Electric Project (CHEP) is one of Western Odisha’s earliest and most important hydropower installations. Located near Chipilima village , about 37 km downstream of Hirakud Dam and 20 km from Sambalpur , it harnesses the natural drop of the Mahanadi River for sustainable power generation and irrigation. The project is managed by the Odisha Hydro Power Corporation (OHPC) and plays a crucial role in supplying electricity to the western and central parts of the state. Quick Facts Location: Chipilima village, Sambalpur District, Odisha River: Mahanadi (downstream of Hirakud Dam) Commissioned: 1960s (later upgraded by OHPC) Installed Capacity: 72 MW (3 units × 24 MW each) Type: Run...