|
Sambalpur - 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 Vajrayana 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 head quarter town and an important
commercial centre, it is famous for its textiles, particularly its
tie-and-dye lkat work, also popular as Sambalpuri. Due to its unique
pattern, design and texture, the Sambalpur is internationally famed. The
folk dances like the Karama dance especially on the festive occasion of
Bhardrav Ekadashi (August/September) is entertaining and a special
attraction for the visitors.
Sambalpur has two railway
stations, the main Khetrajpur and the Sambalpur Rail Station. The main
station is about 3 km from the city centre whereas the second one is a
little closer and most trains also stop here.
The daily trains departing from Sambalpur main station-Kolkata (12 hrs):
Koraput-Howrah Express (8006,1640); Puri (6 1/2 hrs): Tapaswini Express.
Jharsguda Railway Station, about one hour journey by bus from Sambalpur
provides connections for Mumbai and Delhi (via Katni).
There are also two bus stands
(Govt. and the private), about 3 km from the city centre, the main VSS Marg
Bus stand, Private bus stand. The private stand has more regular services to
major towns in the area. Regular buses go to Bhubaneswar, Puri and Cuttack.
Taxis and auto rickshaws are
available for visiting the places of interest and for excursions. There are a number of
moderately priced hotels in the town.
The nearest domestic airport is
Swami Vivekananda Airport, located in Raipur, 269 km west of Sambalpur.
It is about four hours
drive to Swami Vivekananda Airport from Sambalpur. To make arrangements for a taxi from Airport
to Sambalpur, contact one the taxi operators and travel agents that have
counter in the Airport.
Sambalpur Quick Facts
State: Odisha
Languages: Oriya and Hindi
STD Code : 0663
Weather: Hot in summer and moderately cool in winter
Best Season: Winter, October to March
Famous For: Religious, Scenic |
