Maa Samaleswari Temple, Sambalpur – Odisha

Maa Samaleswari Temple, nestled on the banks of River Mahanadi in Sambalpur, Odisha, is a revered Shakti Peetha and one of the most significant temples in Western Odisha. Dedicated to Goddess Samaleswari, the temple is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of cultural pride and spiritual heritage. The deity, affectionately known as 'Samalei Maa', holds immense significance in the religious life of the region, drawing lakhs of devotees throughout the year.

Temple About

Maa Samaleswari is the presiding deity of Sambalpur, worshipped as an incarnation of Shakti who protects and nurtures her devotees.

Temple Description

The temple structure dates back to the 16th century, with striking Kalinga architecture and a beautifully sculpted idol of the goddess carved in granite stone.

Temple Specialty

Center of the Nuakhai festival – the major agrarian celebration of Western Odisha.

Revered across Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Eastern India.

Considered a Shakti Peetha and spiritual power center.

Temple Address

Maa Samaleswari Temple,

Samaleswari Temple Road,

Sambalpur, Odisha – 768001, India.

Temple Coordinates

21.4682° N, 83.9757° E

Temple Timings

Morning: 4:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Evening: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Temple Sevas

Daily rituals and pujas

Special offerings during festivals

Dipa Seva, Pushpanjali, Bhog Seva

Travel and Facilities Information

Traveling Facilities

Accessible by road, rail, and air

Local autos, cabs, and buses available in Sambalpur

Food Facilities

Prasadam served at the temple

Local eateries and restaurants with Odia and Indian cuisines nearby

Stay Facilities

Numerous hotels, lodges, and OTDC Panthanivas Sambalpur

How to Reach the Temple

Nearby Railway Station

Sambalpur Junction (SBP) – 2.5 km

Nearby Airport

Jharsuguda Airport (JRG) – 65 km

Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) – 315 km

Raipur Airport (RPR) – 270 km

Nearby Bus Station

Sambalpur Bus Stand – 2 km

Bus Routes

Buses from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Jharsuguda, Bargarh

Train Routes

Connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Bhubaneswar, Raipur, etc.

Airways

Fly to Jharsuguda, then take a taxi or bus

Alternate routes via Bhubaneswar or Raipur

Nearby Places & Highlights

Nearby Cities

Jharsuguda – 50 km

Bargarh – 45 km

Rourkela – 130 km

Bhubaneswar – 315 km

Raipur – 270 km

Nearby Temples & Attractions

Hirakud Dam – 15 km

Huma Leaning Temple – 26 km

Ghanteswari Temple – 33 km

Budharaja Hill Temple, Cattle Island, Deer Park

Preferable Visiting Season

October to March (pleasant weather)

Nuakhai Festival (Aug–Sept) for cultural grandeur

Shopping Famous For

Sambalpuri handloom textiles and sarees

Silver filigree, wooden crafts, and local sweets

Maa Samaleswari Temple stands as a powerful spiritual hub and cultural symbol of Western Odisha. A visit to this sacred shrine not only brings divine blessings but also offers a unique experience of Odisha’s rich traditions, architecture, and hospitality. Whether you're a pilgrim, a cultural enthusiast, or a traveler, Sambalpur's Samalei Maa will leave a lasting spiritual imprint on your heart.