3 Days in Sambalpur for a Slow-Paced Getaway

Kick off your Sambalpur trip with its most iconic sights, from the stunning Hirakud Dam to the serene Deer Park, and dive into local flavors with authentic Odia cuisine.

Activities

Hirakud Dam Visit

Start your day at the massive Hirakud Dam, one of India's longest dams. The view from the Gandhi Minar viewpoint is breathtaking, especially in the morning light. Walk along the dam to soak in the vastness of the reservoir and the surrounding landscape.

Hirakud Dam, about 15 km from Sambalpur city centerMorning, around 8 AM to avoid the midday heatFree entry, parking around ₹20-30

Tips:

• Carry water and sunscreen—it gets sunny early.
• Weekends can be crowded; weekdays are quieter.

Deer Park & Nature Walk

Head to the peaceful Deer Park near the dam. It’s a great spot to see spotted deer, peacocks, and other wildlife in a natural setting. The shaded pathways make for a relaxing stroll, and the small lake adds to the tranquility.

Deer Park, adjacent to Hirakud DamLate morning, around 10:30 AMFree entry

Tips:

• Early mornings or late afternoons are best for spotting deer.
• Keep an eye out for peacocks—they’re often around the lake.

Lunch at a Local Odia Eatery

Wrap up your morning with a hearty Odia meal at a no-frills local spot. Try classics like dalma (lentils with veggies), machha besara (fish curry), and pakhala (fermented rice) for a true taste of the region.

Try 'Annapurna Restaurant' or 'New Gandhi Hotel' in Sambalpur townAround 12:30 PM₹200-400 per person

Tips:

• Ask for the day’s special—locals know what’s freshest.
• Don’t miss the chenna poda (caramelized cheesecake) for dessert.

Must Try Foods

A relaxed day exploring Sambalpur's cultural gems and local flavors, with a mix of sightseeing and authentic experiences.

Activities

Samaleswari Temple Visit

Start your day with a peaceful visit to the iconic Samaleswari Temple, dedicated to the goddess Samaleswari, the presiding deity of Sambalpur. The temple's architecture and spiritual vibe make it a must-visit. Mornings are less crowded, allowing for a serene experience.

Samaleswari Temple, Sambalpur6:00 AM - 12:00 PM (best visited early morning)Free (donations welcome)

Tips:

• Dress modestly as it's a religious site
• Try the temple's prasad (offering) for a sweet start to your day

Explore Sambalpur's Handloom Market

Head to the bustling handloom market near the temple to see Sambalpur's famous textiles, especially the vibrant Sambalpuri sarees and fabrics. The market is a great place to pick up souvenirs and watch local artisans at work.

Handloom Market, near Samaleswari Temple10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (best visited late morning)Varies (sarees start around INR 500)

Tips:

• Bargaining is common here
• Look for the GI-tagged authentic Sambalpuri sarees

Lunch at a Traditional Odia Thali Spot

For lunch, try a local eatery serving Odia thali—a wholesome platter with rice, dal, vegetables, fish or chicken, and desserts like chhena poda. It’s a great way to taste a variety of regional flavors in one meal.

Local eateries like 'Odia Bhoji' or 'Annapurna' in Sambalpur12:30 PM - 2:30 PMINR 150-300 per person

Tips:

• Ask for the day's specials
• Try the tangy and spicy dalma (lentil stew with vegetables)

Must Try Foods

A relaxed day exploring lesser-known gems and soaking in the local culture of Sambalpur, with a mix of history, nature, and authentic flavors.

Activities

Morning at Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary

Start your day with a peaceful visit to Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary, about 50 km from Sambalpur. This hidden gem is home to elephants, leopards, and various bird species. The early morning drive through the forest roads is serene, and if you're lucky, you might spot some wildlife. The sanctuary is less crowded, making it perfect for a quiet nature retreat.

Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary, near Sambalpur6:30 AM - 10:30 AM (best for wildlife sightings)INR 50-100 per person

Tips:

• Carry binoculars for birdwatching.
• Wear comfortable shoes for light walking.

Explore Ghanteswari Temple and Wind Chime Market

Head back to Sambalpur and visit the unique Ghanteswari Temple, dedicated to the goddess of bells. The temple is surrounded by thousands of wind chimes, creating a melodic atmosphere. Nearby, you'll find a small market selling handmade wind chimes and local crafts—a great place to pick up souvenirs.

Ghanteswari Temple, Sambalpur11:30 AM - 1:00 PMFree (donations welcome)

Tips:

• Try the local 'prasad' offered at the temple.
• Bargain gently at the market for the best deals.

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Wrap up your trip with a hearty lunch at a no-frills local dhaba. Try the 'Dalma' (a lentil and vegetable stew) or 'Pakhala' (fermented rice dish), both staples of Odia cuisine. The rustic setting and homely flavors make for an authentic dining experience.

Any popular roadside dhaba in Sambalpur1:30 PM - 2:30 PMINR 200-400 for two

Tips:

• Ask for the day's special—it’s usually the freshest.
• Pair your meal with a chilled 'lassi'.

Must Try Foods