An overview on Handloom city.........

       The city of Sambalpur, widely known as "The Hand loom city" is located in the Sambalpur district in the eastern part of Orissa. Earlier its known as Kosal, is an urban town located 321 kms away from Bhubaneswar.It is said that Sambalpur is quoted in the book of Ptolemy (2nd century AD) as "Sambalaka" on the river bank of Manada (known as Mahanadi river) and was once well known for diamond trade. This is gateway to the exotic charms of the western Orissa was the cradle of an ancient civilization and is an important milestone in India's cultural history. Along with diamond trading it also famous for its internationally renowned textiles (ikat), rich tribal heritage and fabulous forestlands.

Samalaeiswari

       Talking about its spiritual believes: Samaleswari, the presiding deity of the region is blessed at 'Samalai Gudi' on the bank of Mahanadi river. The other temple holding attention is the Budharaja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and is settled atop the Budharaja hill.

       When it comes to festivals: How can anyone forget about the "handloom city".The Sitalsasthi Carnival which celebrates the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati has been held in Sambalpur for centuries. In addition to that there is another festival named as Dhanu Yatra, it symbolize the victory of justice over injustice and people from around the state as well as country participate in the festivities. Additionally, there are quite a few regional festivals including Naukhai, Bhai-juntia, Puo-juntia, which are celebrated in the city.


          The Hirakud Dam is built in the year of 1956 on the River Mahanadi,located at a distance of 15 km from the city of Sambalpur and known as the largest earthen dam in the world and also one of the longest dams.

Samalaeiswari Temple

          Lets talk about temples: The Leaning Temple of Huma is a famous 17th century temple and is 25 km from Sambalpur. The Samaleswari Temple which has the deity of Goddess Samaleswari, the Gandhi Temple and the Ghanteshwari Temple, 33 km from Sambalpur are some of the many well known temples in Sambalpur.

       There are quite a few well known places around Sambalpur city for enjoying the nature. Ushakothi is a well known wildlife sanctuary at a distance of about 43 km from Sambalpur. Chiplima which is 37 km from Sambalpur has a beautiful waterfall and is a popular picnic site.

       The Cattle Island which is at a distance of 90 km from Sambalpur, is a beautiful island which is actually a submerged hill. The island located in Hirakud Reservoir, is covered with lush forest and is inhabited by wild cattle.

  Sambalpur is easily accessible by rail and road.