History:

is one of the oldest Hindu shrines in India, dedicated to the Goddess Samaleswari. Located in the bustling city of Sambalpur in Odisha, this Shakthi Peetha shrine is believed to have its origins in ancient times with ancient Hindu myths mentioning the Brahmastra deity from the pandavas resided in the temple walls. The main deity of this temple is Maa Samaleswari, who commands a great faith and reverence among the local people of Odisha. Popularly known as, the ‘Goddess of Sambalpur’, She is said to have been protecting the boundaries of Sambalpur from the pre-medieval period with Her protective hands and also gives rewards to those who seek Her blessings. The main festivals celebrated in the temple are the Maha Shivaratri, Raja Purnima, Dola Purnima, Chhath Puja, and Diwali. Various devotees from all across India come here to offer their prayers and seek the divine blessings of Samaleswari Devi. It is one of the best temple in Odisha which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Samaleswari Temple is a temple dedicated to Goddess Samaleswari located in the city of Sambalpur in the Indian state of Odisha. 2. The temple was constructed in the 15th century and is a popular pilgrimage site. 3. The temple is a popular tourist attraction for Odisha and is known for its elaborate carvings. 4. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Samaleswari, who is considered to be the presiding Goddess of Sambalpur. 5. The temple has three richly decorated gopurams and each carved in the state’s distinctive Kalinga architecture. 6. The temple also has a variety of sculptures representing deities from Hindu mythology, along with some North Indian and South Indian deities. 7. Besides, the temple also houses an 18th-century observatory and a courtyard to showcase a collection of old coins and inscriptions from the region. 8. The temple also hosts popular annual festivals such as the Aaradhana, which is an event dedicated to the goddess, and draws in large crowds from all over the state. Here are some facts about the Odisha temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Odisha

Worship Method:

The temple of Samaleswari is dedicated to the Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu. Pilgrims to the temple perform several rituals during the puja. 1. Kalasa Puja- A kalasa is a conical pot which is filled with water and adorned with flowers. A copper image of the goddess is installed inside it and an offering of flowers, fruit and incense is placed near it. 2. Shodashopachara- It involves offering sixteen types of food items to the Goddess. The items include rice, dal, milk, ghee, honey, curd, jaggery, banana, coconut, chironji, cashew, and gud. 3. Abhisheka- Water, milk, ghee, yakshavara root, turmeric, sandalwood paste, and panchamrita are poured around the idol of the goddess while chanting prayers and mantras. 4. Aarati- An aarti is performed at the end of the puja where a camphor flame is waved in front of the idol and devotees offer flowers. 5. Mantra Pushpanjali- Mantra Pushpanjali is used to offer flowers to the Goddess as an act of veneration. 6. Prasad- Prasad is offered to the devotees after the puja as a token of thanks. The prasad usually includes sweets like laddoo, kheer, etc. This most visited temple in Odisha

Opening Timing:

The Samaleswari Temple in Sambalpur is open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. top temples in Odisha

How to reach:

The Samaleswari Temple is located in the city of Sambalpur in Odisha. The temple can be reached by bus, train, or car. By Bus: Sambalpur is well-linked by a network of roads and bus services connect it with different cities in Odisha and neighboring states. The nearby bus stop nearest to the temple is the Neelamala Bus Stand, about 15 minutes away by foot. By Train: The nearest railway station to the Samaleswari temple is the Sambalpur Junction railway station, located about 4 km away from the temple. By Car: People who wish to drive can reach the temple by following the NH 6 highway, which passes through Sambalpur. famous temples in Odisha