By Gagan Kumar Behera 
Maa Samaleswari Temple is on the banks of the Mahanadi River in the Sambalpur district of Odisha. It is a well-known Shakti Peetha, a sacred place where people worship the goddess. Many people from Odisha and Chhattisgarh come to visit and pray here. In the Hindu temple, Maa Samaleswari is seen as a form of Goddess Durga, representing her power and kindness.
Whether you’re a devotee looking to pray or someone interested in exploring historical sites, Samaleswari Temple has something to offer everyone. Its relaxing atmosphere and cultural significance make it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Sambalpur.
Samaleswari Temple Quick Overlook
| Name of the temple | Maa Samaleswari Temple |
| Location | Khetrajpu, Near the banks of Mahanadi river, Sambalpur District, Odisha, India View on the Map |
| Goddess Worshiped | Maa Samalei (Durga) |
| Natural Attraction | Sightseeing of the Mahanadi River |
| Activities to do | Light Show at the temple During the Evening, Local sightseeing, Buying local products. |
| Visiting Hours | 6 A.M to 12 Noon 12.30 P.M to 8P.M |
| Entry Fee | Free |
Samaleswari Temple Photo Gallary
Samaleswari Temple Location
The Samaleswari temple is situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River in the Sambalpur district Khetrajpur area. The temple’s precise address is as follows:
- Ray Pada, Khetrajpur, Sambalpur, Odisha 768003
How to Reach Samaleswari Temple?
By Road
Sambalpur is well-connected by road to other major cities in Odisha and neighboring states. You can reach the temple by taking a bus, taxi, or private vehicle. Here are some popular routes:
- From Bhubaneswar: The distance is approximately 280 kilometers, and it takes about 6-7 hours by car.
- From Raipur (Chhattisgarh): The distance is around 265 kilometers, and it takes roughly 5-6 hours by car.
- From Balangir, Sonepur: If you are coming from Balangir, Sonepur area then you can easily reach there through Balangir – Bargarh highway.
By Train
Sambalpur Railway Station is well-connected to major cities across India. From the railway station, the temple is about 3 kilometers away. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a local bus to reach the temple in about 10-15 minutes.
By Air
The nearest airport to Samaleswari Temple is Veer Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda, which is about 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Sambalpur. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours.
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Best Time to Visit Samaleswari Temple
You can visit the Samaleswari Temple any time of the year except for April to June. The summer months in western Odisha can be quite hot, so it’s best to avoid traveling then. The rest of the year offers pleasant weather for your visit.
What to Explore at Samaleswari Temple
The Samaleswari Temple has been recently renovated to include more facilities for pilgrims. Now, you can find comfortable places to stay or rest right at the temple. There’s also a café and restaurant where you can enjoy meals and refreshments.
Samaleswari Temple
The main attraction is, of course, Samaleswari Temple itself. Dedicated to Maa Samaleswari, a form of Goddess Durga, this sacred site is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. The temple’s architecture is an impressive display of traditional Odia craftsmanship, with intricate carvings and designs that highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The Mahanadi Riverbank
The temple is beautifully situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River, offering a picturesque setting that adds to the spiritual ambiance.
Hirakud Dam
Just a short drive from the temple, Hirakud Dam is a must-visit attraction. Hirakud Dam is the longest earthen dam in the world, located in the Sambalpur region of Odisha, India. This impressive structure spans the Mahanadi River and is a testament to engineering excellence.
City Centre Mall
This mall is one of the best places to visit in Sambalpur. It’s perfect for anyone who loves shopping, playing games, or watching movies, as you can find everything all in one place.
Ghanteswari Temple
Maa Ghanteshwari Temple is a significant and unique religious site located near Sambalpur, Odisha, on the banks of the Mahanadi River. What sets this temple apart is its countless bells, offered by devotees to the deity, Maa Ghanteswari, who is affectionately known as the Goddess of Bells.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to Hirakud Dam, there are other nearby attractions to explore, such as the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a diverse array of wildlife including deer, elephants, and numerous bird species. This sanctuary offers a fantastic opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe nature up close.
Conclusion
Samaleswari Temple is a wonderful place to visit if you’re seeking peace and a connection with nature. It offers a unique blend of spirituality, cultural richness, and scenic beauty. Whether you want to pray, explore the serene surroundings, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the Mahanadi River, this temple has something for everyone. Plan your visit to Samaleswari Temple and experience everything it has to offer.
If you have visited Samaleswari Temple, we would love to hear about your experience! Please share your thoughts and comments below. Your insights and stories might be featured in this post and could inspire others to visit this enchanting place.
We look forward to hearing your stories and welcoming you to the beautiful world of Samaleswari Temple!