Ptolemy's text refers to this area as Sambakala, a diamond trading centre in 2nd century. The area is associated with its 8th century ce...
Ptolemy's text refers to this area as Sambakala, a diamond trading centre in 2nd century. The area is associated with its 8th century celebrated ruler, King Indrabhuti, who became a Buddhist and the teacher-profounder of Vajrayamana Sect. Sambalpur derives its name from its presiding deity Sambaleswari enshrined in a temple called Samalai Gudi on the banks of Mahanadi, erected by the Chauhans in the mid 16th century. A grand fair is held here in the month of Ashwin and Chitra.
A district headquarter town and important commercial centre, it is also the headquarter of the Mahanadi Coal Fields, a mini ratna of Government of India and the second largest coal company. Sambalpur is famous for its textiles, particularly its tie and dye Ikat work, also popular as Sambalpuri. Due to its unique pattern, design and texture, the Ikat is internationally famed, also see pg...... The folk dance-Karama especially on the festive occasion of Bhardrav Ekadashi (August/September) is entertaining and a special attraction for the visitors.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Hirakud Dam
About 20 km north west of Sambalpur, the gigantic Hirakud Dam was completed in 1957 with the sole objective of combating the recurring devastating floods of the delta region caused by Mahanadi. One of the longest mainstream dams in the world, it is over 60 m in height, 1100 m long key section of masonry dam, with a further earth dam of over 3500 m. This has also helped in irrigating the vast areas of land. A twenty one km drive on the dyke offers a unique experience. The view of the mighty Hirakud Dam and the fantastic expanse of water from the revolving towers, Gandhi Minar at the northern end and the Jawahar Minar on the southern side is excellent. Prior permission required for visit from the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Security Force, Hirakud ph-0663-2481219, photography strictly prohibited. Regular buses ply to Dam from Sambalpur.
Wildlife Sanctuary
The wildlife sanctuary at Badrama, Popular called Ushakothi is a densely forested area providing natural habitat to a wide variety of wildlife. It is about 20 km east of Sambalpur on NH6 towards Kolkata, alsomsee pg 37
Another sanctuary Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary (on an area of 746 sq km) adjoining Hirakud Lake, 50 km from Sambalpur is worth a visit, also see pg 38
Huma
Weavers of Bargarh, Barpali and Sonepur excel in weaving saris in their looms from material produced locally. It is a treat to watch these weaver communities -bhulias, kostas gaudias or asanipatras creating intricate patterns on the fabric. Their villages and the countryside are pleasant in themselves. Bargarh and Barpali are 1 1/2 hrs and 3 hrs drive away from Sambalpur respectively. Sonepur is a lively small town, on a scenic drive along the river Mahanadi. The road ends at the mouth of a wide sand bank from where small boats ferry visitors across the river.
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