Sambalpur: The City of Temples

Sambalpur is a city in the western part of Odisha, India. It is the headquarters of Sambalpur district. The city is situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River. Sambalpur is known for its temples, which are dedicated to various Hindu deities. The city is also home to a number of other attractions, such as the Hirakud Dam, the Sambalpur University, and the Sambalpur Science Centre.

Language

The official language of Sambalpur is Odia. However, Hindi and English are also widely spoken.

Currency

The official currency of Sambalpur is the Indian Rupee (INR).

Distance

  • Sambalpur to Bhubaneswar: 300 km
  • Sambalpur to Puri: 400 km
  • Sambalpur to Kolkata: 500 km
  • Sambalpur to Mumbai: 1500 km
  • Sambalpur to New Delhi: 1600 km

How to Reach

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jharsuguda Airport, which is located 60 km from Sambalpur.
  • By Train: Sambalpur is well connected by rail to all major cities in India.
  • By Road: Sambalpur is well connected by road to all major cities in Odisha and neighbouring states.

Expenses

The cost of living in Sambalpur is relatively low. A budget of around Rs. 1000 per day should be sufficient for accommodation, food, and transportation.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Sambalpur is during the winter months (October to March). The weather is pleasant during this time of year, and there are a number of festivals and events taking place.

What to Eat

Sambalpur is known for its delicious Odia cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Dalma: A lentil-based dish flavoured with spices and coconut.
  • Chhena poda: A sweet dish made from cottage cheese and sugar.
  • Rasabali: A sweet dish made from semolina and jaggery.
  • Pakhala: A fermented rice dish that is served with a variety of accompaniments.
  • Santula: A spicy potato dish that is served as a snack or side dish.

Where to Go

Sambalpur is home to a number of temples, historical sites, and natural attractions. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • Hirakud Dam: The largest earth dam in India.
  • Sambalpur University: One of the oldest and prestigious universities in Odisha.
  • Sambalpur Science Centre: A science museum that is ideal for families with children.
  • Budharaja Temple: A 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Maa Samaleswari Temple: A temple dedicated to the goddess Samaleswari.

FAQ

  • What is the population of Sambalpur?
  • What is the literacy rate of Sambalpur?
  • What is the main industry in Sambalpur?
  • What are the major festivals celebrated in Sambalpur?
  • What are the best places to stay in Sambalpur?

Answers

  • What is the population of Sambalpur?

    • The population of Sambalpur is around 350,000.

  • What is the literacy rate of Sambalpur?

    • The literacy rate of Sambalpur is around 85%.

  • What is the main industry in Sambalpur?

    • The main industry in Sambalpur is agriculture. The city is also home to a number of small-scale industries.

  • What are the major festivals celebrated in Sambalpur?

    • The major festivals celebrated in Sambalpur include Durga Puja, Diwali, and Holi.

  • What are the best places to stay in Sambalpur?

    • There are a number of good hotels and guesthouses in Sambalpur. Some of the best places to stay include the Mayfair Lagoon, the Sambalpur Palace, and the Hotel Samaleswari.