Deity
Devi (Maa Samaleswari)
Main deity
श्री समलेश्वरी देवी
Samaleswari Temple
Samaleswari Temple in Sambalpur, Odisha is an important western Odisha shrine dedicated to Maa Samaleswari, a revered form of Devi. Associated with Kalinga temple architecture and dated to the 16th century under the Chauhan dynasty, it remains a prominent local pilgrimage center.
Samaleswari Temple
Samaleswari Temple
Samaleswari Temple
Samaleswari Temple
Samaleswari Temple
Temple Summary
Quick Facts
Pilgrimage Status
Major shrine in western Odisha
Local importance
Architecture
Kalinga style (16th century)
Chauhan era
Location
Sambalpur, Sambalpur district, Odisha
City
Temple Profile
History and Significance
History
- Founded
- 16th Century AD
- Founder
- Balaram Dev
- Construction
- 16th Century AD
- Maa Samaleswari Temple was constructed in the mid-16th century AD by King Balaram Dev, the founder of the Chauhan dynasty rule in Sambalpur. Built along the Mahanadi River, the temple underwent major expansion by King Chhatra Sai. In 2024, the SAMALEI project redeveloped the surrounding heritage complex.
Significance
- Maa Samaleswari Temple is the premier spiritual center and presiding deity ('Samalei Maa') of Western Odisha. The idol is carved out of granite stone in an inverted cone shape, worshipped as a manifestation of Shakti. The temple serves as the focal point for the regional harvest festival 'Nuakhai', where the first offered grain ('Nabanna') is presented to the Goddess.
Temple Pilgrimage Summary
Pilgrim Guide
Before You Visit
Confirm timings on arrival
The listed hours are approximate (05:30–21:00). Verify the day’s darshan window at the entrance or with local staff.
Plan for peak hours
As an important Sambalpur shrine, expect higher crowds on weekends and during Devi observances.
Keep offerings simple
Carry minimal, easy-to-manage offerings and follow any temple instructions on what is permitted inside.
Dress and conduct
Wear modest clothing suitable for a Devi temple and maintain queue discipline during darshan.
Allow buffer time
Keep extra time for entry checks, queue movement, and any temporary restrictions during busy periods.
Temple Timings
Darshan Schedule
Morning timings
06:00 AM - 01:30 PM
Evening timings
04:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Festivals
Temple Calendar Highlights
Sep–Oct • 9 nights
Navaratri
Major Devi worship period with expanded ritual and alankaram cycles.
Mar–Apr • 9 nights
Vasant Navaratri
Seasonal Devi observance with focused devotional practices.
Oct–Nov • Festival period
Deepavali Season
Lamp offerings and festive devotion are commonly observed.
Temple Knowledge
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Community Notes
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Weekday mornings usually have shorter darshan queues than weekends.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Carry a small cloth bag for footwear token and prasad containers.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Aarti timings can shift on festival days, so check local notice boards.
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ज्ञ
श्री समलेश्वरी देवी
Samaleswari Temple
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