Made famous by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the Sambalpuri saree is made in several handloom clusters in Orissa, including, well, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Boudh and Balangir. The Sambalpuri ikkat is a technique where the yarn threads are tied-and-dyed before the weaving process even begins. This is what makes the Sambalpuri saree so unique.
A major tourist attraction in Sambalpur is the Hirakud Dam, which is the world’s largest earthen dam and also forms Asia’s largest artificial lake. The lake attracts many migratory birds in winters so don’t forget to carry a pair of binoculars if you are visiting during this time. In summer, the waters of the dam recede and uncover a submerged temple. The Leaning Temple of Huma, that’s just outside Sambalpur, and the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary are other attractions.
Distance from Bangalore: 1,650 kilometers {approx.}
Nearest Airport: Raipur
