Sambalpur & Angul

📍 Odisha, India

Sambalpur & Angul

Odisha · 5 destinations & hidden spots

Tourist Places & Hidden Gems in Sambalpur & Angul

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
NatureWildlife

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Near Hirakud Dam, Bargarh/Sambalpur district

Bordering the scenic backwaters of the Hirakud Reservoir in the Barapahad hills, Debrigarh was historically the hideout of celebrated freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai. Renowned for frequent sightings of Indian bison (gaur), leopards, sambar deer, and winter waterbirds along the reservoir edge.

Forest entry fee ~₹40 per person; Vehicle safari separate (Book via EcoTour Odisha) View Spot →
Hirakud Dam & Reservoir
LakesHistory

Hirakud Dam & Reservoir

Hirakud, Sambalpur district

One of the first major multipurpose river valley projects after India's independence, Hirakud is the world's longest earthen dam stretching 25.8 km across the Mahanadi. Features Gandhi Minar and Nehru Minar watchtowers offering panoramic vistas over the vast 743 sq km inland reservoir.

Free (Watchtower entry ₹10–₹20) View Spot →
Huma Leaning Temple of Lord Vimaleswar Hidden Gem
HistoryArchitecture

Huma Leaning Temple of Lord Vimaleswar

Huma village, Sambalpur district

A curious architectural marvel standing on a rocky outcrop along the Mahanadi River, where the main 17th-century stone temple tilts noticeably at a 47-degree angle while its pinnacle remains perpendicular to the ground. The river pool below is populated by friendly holy Kudo fish that feed from visitors' hands.

Maa Samaleswari Temple
SpiritualHistory

Maa Samaleswari Temple

Kunjelpada, Sambalpur

Built in the 16th century by Balram Dev, the first Chauhan king of Sambalpur, on the banks of the Mahanadi. Dedicated to Goddess Samaleswari (the presiding deity of Western Odisha), it features unique proto-Odia temple architecture and is the cultural epicentre of the famous Nuakhai harvest festival.

Satkosia Gorge & Tiger Reserve
NatureAdventure

Satkosia Gorge & Tiger Reserve

Badmul / Tikarpada, Angul & Nayagarh border

A stunning 22-kilometre-long deep canyon carved by the Mahanadi River through the Eastern Ghats hills. The sanctuary features freshwater river crocodiles (gharial and mugger), elephant herds, and luxury eco-resort river tented camps at Badmul and Chhotkei with river rafting and nature trails.

Forest permit required (~₹40 per person); Eco-cottages and boat safaris booked via EcoTour Odisha View Spot →