Sambalpur, 321 km from the capital Bhubaneswar, showcases the exotic charms of the western region of Orissa, which housed an ancient civilization and is an important landmark in India's cultural history.

This ancient centre for the diamond trade is famous for its tribal heritage, internationally renowned textiles (ikat) and forests. The 24 km long Hirakud Dam which controls the monsoon floods, is also situated here.

Samaleswari, the presiding deity of this region is enshrined at 'Samalai Gudi' on the banks of the Mahanadi river. The other temple of importance is the Budharaja Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, perched atop the Budharaj Hill.