Top 10 tourist places in Bargarh district of Odisha in 2025
Bargarh, often referred to as the "Rice Bowl ofOdisha," is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and
spiritual significance. Nestled in the western part of Odisha, Bargarh district is
home to ancient temples, serene waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and
historical landmarks. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or a
pilgrim, Bargarh offers something for everyone.
1. Nrusinghanath Temple – A Spiritual Marvel
Located at the foothills of Gandhamardan Mountain, the NrusinghanathTemple is one of the most revered shrines in Odisha. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu
in his Narasimha avatar, this temple dates back to 1413 AD and showcases
exquisite Kalinga-style architecture.
Highlights:
- Religious Significance
: The temple is associated with the Ramayana,
as it is believed that Lord Hanuman dropped a part of the Sanjeevani mountain
here.
- Festivals: Major celebrations include Nrusingha Chaturthi
and Navanna (Nuakhai).
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery and a waterfall
near Harishankar Temple, it’s perfect for trekking and picnics.
2. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary – A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Spread over 353 sq. km, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a
haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Located near the Hirakud Reservoir, it is home
to Indian bison, elephants, spotted deer, and migratory birds.
Key Attractions:
- Aapkhol & Nalichuan Waterfalls: These waterfalls
inside the sanctuary offer breathtaking views and trekking
opportunities.
- Historical Significance: The sanctuary was a hideout for Veer
Surendra Sai, a freedom fighter who resisted British rule.
- Bird Watching: Winter months attract rare migratory birds,
making it a birdwatcher’s delight.
3. Gandhamardan Hills –
The Abode of
Medicinal Herbs According to the Ramayana, Gandhamardan is where Lord
Hanuman carried the Sanjeevani herb. Today, it is known for its 5,000+
medicinal plants and rich biodiversity.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Harishankar Temple: A twin pilgrimage site with
Nrusinghanath, featuring a natural waterfall.
- Mighty Mandap: An ancient Buddhist cave dating back to the
time of Hiuen T’Sang.
4. Ashtashambhu Temples – The Eight Sacred Shivas
Bargarh is home to six of the eight Ashtashambhu Shiva
temples, built during the Chauhan dynasty. These temples are renowned for their
intricate carvings and historical value.
Notable Temples:
- Kedarnath Temple (Ambabhona): Features a Shiva Linga
inside a beautiful pond.
- Baidyanath Temple (Deogaon): A significant Shaivite
pilgrimage site.
- Swapneswar Temple (Sorna): Known for its 6-acre pond and
Mahashivratri celebrations.
5. Ganiapali – A Rare Buddhist Heritage Site
Ganiapali houses one of India’s rare Muchalinda Buddha
statues, depicting Buddha meditating under a serpent’s hood. Historians believe
this was a major Buddhist center between the 2nd and 6th century BC.
- Unique Statue: The stolen Buddha idol (2007) was a
masterpiece, but the site remains historically significant. - Peaceful
Ambiance: Located near the Ang and Magar rivers, it’s ideal for meditation and
photography.
6. Papanga Mountain & Budharaja Temple – A Blend of Nature & Spirituality
This 600-ft mountain near Papanga village is a scenic
retreat with:
- Budharaja Temple: Dedicated to a local deity, believed to
date back to the 17th century.
- Bankhol Forest Garden: A serene spot with mango groves and
a triangle-shaped pond.
- Historical Connection: Veer Surendra Sai used this
mountain as a base against the British.
7. Shyama Kali Temple – The Divine Protector
Just 1 km from Bargarh town, this temple is dedicated to Maa
Kali and is a major spiritual hub.
Special Features:
- Wish-Fulfilling Deity: Devotees believe Maa Kali grants
their desires.
- Festivals: Kali Puja is celebrated with grand
processions.
- Adjacent Temples: The complex also houses Jagannath,
Ganesh, and Hanuman temples.
8. Barpali – The
Cultural Hub
Famous as the birthplace of Odia poet Gangadhar Meher,
Barpali is also known for:
- Handloom Textiles: Renowned for Sambalpuri sarees.
- Samaleswari & Jagannath Temples: Major religious
sites.
9. Devdarha & Barabakhra Waterfalls – Nature’s Masterpieces
- Devdarha Waterfall: Located near Padampur, it’s perfect
for trekking and picnics.
- Barabakhra Waterfall: Famous for its twin cascades and
historical caves used by Veer Surendra Sai.
10. Best Time to Visit & Travel Tips
- Ideal Season: October to March (pleasant
weather).
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Raipur (206 km) or Bhubaneswar
(256 km).
- Rail: Bargarh Road Railway Station connects to
major cities.
- Road: Well-connected via NH53 and state highways.
Final Thoughts
Plan your trip today and experience the magic of
Bargarh!
What is the Famous Places in Bargarh District
Bargarh district in Odisha, India, is known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and religious sites. Here are some of the most famous tourist attractions in Bargarh:
1. Nrusinghanath Temple
- Located at the foot of Gandhamardan Mountain,
this 15th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Narasimha
(Nrusinghanath) avatar. It is a major pilgrimage site and attracts devotees,
especially during the Baisakha Mela festival. The temple's architecture and
surrounding natural beauty make it a must-visit .
2. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- A biodiversity hotspot, this sanctuary is
home to animals like Indian bison, elephants, and migratory birds. It also has
historical significance as the hideout of freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai.
The Aapkhol and Nalichuan waterfalls within the sanctuary are popular picnic
spots .
3. Patharasini Temple (Arjunda)
- Situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River,
this temple is dedicated to Goddess Patharasini, one of three legendary sisters
(along with Chandrasini and Padmasini). The serene location, surrounded by
forests and waterfalls, adds to its spiritual charm .
4. Ganiapali Buddha Bihar
- A rare Buddhist site featuring a unique
statue of Buddha in a lotus posture with a snake hood. Historically
significant, it reflects the region's Buddhist heritage from the 2nd–6th
centuries BCE .
5. Bindhyabasini Temple (Sankrida)
- Perched atop Bindhyabasini Mountain, this
temple is dedicated to Goddess Bindhyabasini. The annual Chaitra Purnima
festival and the panoramic views from the mountain attract many visitors
.
6. Astasambhu Temples
- A group of eight ancient Shiva temples built
during the Chauhan dynasty, including Kedarnath (Ambabhona), Baidyanath
(Deogaon), and Swapneswar (Sorna). These temples are renowned for their
intricate carvings and religious importance .
7. Dhanu Jatra (World's Largest Open-Air Theatre)
- A unique cultural festival held in Bargarhtown, reenacting the life of Lord Krishna and the defeat of King Kansa. The
entire town transforms into Mathura during the 11-day event .
8. Waterfalls
- Aapkhol, Nalichuan, and Devdarha: Picturesque
waterfalls nestled in forests, ideal for trekking and nature lovers. Aapkhol is
inside Debrigarh Sanctuary, while Devdarha lies near the Odisha-Chhattisgarh
border .
9. Barpali
- Famous as the birthplace of poet Gangadhar
Meher and for its Sambalpuri handloom textiles. The town also houses the
Samaleswari and Jagannath temples .
10. Baseikela Gada
- A historic fort linked to Veer Surendra Sai’s
resistance against British rule. The ruins and scenic Jeera River surroundings
make it a blend of history and nature .
How Many Waterfalls are in Bargarh district of Odisha
1. Aapkhol Waterfall
- Located inside Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, near Sardhapali Village, about 39 km from Bargarh town. It requires a 4 km trek to reach and is also known as "Chhota Paan Waterfall." Best visited during monsoons or winter .
2. Nalichuan Waterfall
- Another gem in Debrigarh Sanctuary, about 28
km from Bargarh. This seasonal waterfall stands 200 feet tall and is surrounded
by dense forests. It’s close to Aapkhol (5 km away) and features a nearby
GiriGobardhan temple .
3. Devdarha Waterfall
- Situated near the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border,
18 km from Padampur. Known for its rocky terrain and serene ambiance, it’s
ideal for picnics and photography .
4. Ranichuan Waterfall
- A historical waterfall 52 km from Bargarh,
linked to local folklore about its connection to the Palkot Pond. Details are
sparse, but it’s noted for its cultural significance .
5. Bada Paan Waterfall
- Mentioned as part of Debrigarh Sanctuary near
Aapkhol, though specifics are limited. Likely a lesser-known cascade in the
same area .
Which Mountains are in Bargarh District ?
Bargarh district in Odisha, India, is home to several
notable mountains and hill ranges, each with unique ecological, historical, and
religious significance. Here are the key mountains in the district:
1. Gandhamardan Hills
- Location: Straddles Bargarh and Balangir
districts, forming a natural boundary.
- Elevation: 990 meters (3,250 ft) at its
highest point.
- Features:
- Sacred in Hinduism, linked to the
Ramayana (believed to be a fragment of the Himalayas carried by
Hanuman).
- Houses the Nrusinghanath Temple
(northern slope) and Harishankar Temple (southern slope) .
- Rich in biodiversity with over 220
medicinal plant species and ancient Buddhist monastery ruins .
2. Budharaja Mountain (Papanga Hill)
- Location: Near Papanga village, ~33 km fromBargarh town.
- Elevation: ~600 feet.
- Features:
- Home to the Budharaja Temple, a forest
garden (Bankhol), and a Ramchandra Yogashram.
- Historical significance as a guerrilla
warfare base for freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai against the British
.
- Popular for trekking and the annual Banabihar
festival .
3. Barapahar Range
- Location: Extends through Bargarh and
Sambalpur districts.
- Features:
- Hosts the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
(peak elevation: 2,267 ft), known for its flora, fauna, and Hirakud Reservoir
views .
- Associated with Veer Surendra Sai’s
resistance movement .
4. Bindhyabasini Mountain
- Location: Near Sankrida village, ~35 km from
Bargarh.
- Features:
- Site of the Bindhyabasini Temple,
dedicated to the goddess of the same name.
- Celebrated for the Chaitra Purnima
festival .
5. Other Notable Peaks
- Budharaja Peak (Papanga Hills): A smaller but
culturally significant summit with temples and caves .
- Barapahar Hills: Part of the Debrigarh
Sanctuary, offering scenic trails .
Best Picnic spot in Bargarh
Bargarh district in Odisha offers several picturesque picnic
spots, combining natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. Here are the top
recommendations based on the search results:
1. Devdarha Waterfall
- Location: Near Padampur (18 km from the town)
at the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border.
- Highlights:
- Waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs,
surrounded by dense forests.
- Ideal for photography, short treks,
and family picnics.
- Limited facilities; visitors should
carry essentials like water and snacks.
- Best Time: September to March .
2. Aapkhol Waterfall (Chhota Paan Waterfall)
- Location: Inside Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary,
39 km from Bargarh.
- Highlights:
- Requires a 4 km trek through hills and
forests.
- Scenic monsoon beauty with
opportunities for bathing.
- Nearby attractions: Nalichuan
Waterfall (5 km away) .
3. Nalichuan Waterfall
- Location: Debrigarh Sanctuary, 28 km from
Bargarh.
- Highlights:
- 200-foot seasonal waterfall with lush
surroundings.
- Close to Girigobardhan Temple, adding
a cultural touch .
4. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Location: Barapahar Hills (60 km from
Bargarh).
- Highlights:
- Lakeside picnics near Hirakud
Reservoir, migratory bird sightings.
- Historical significance as Veer
Surendra Sai’s hideout.
- Wildlife includes Indian bison,
elephants, and deer .
5. Patharasini Temple (Arjunda)
- Location: Banks of Mahanadi River, 50 km from
Bargarh.
- Highlights:
- Serene forested area with boating
facilities.
- Legendary temple of Goddess
Patharasini, linked to sisters Chandrasini and Padmasini .
6. Baseikela Gada
- Location: Bheden Block, on Jeera
River.
- Highlights:
- Ruins of a historic fort with
panoramic river views.
- Known for "Ghitghiti
Pathar," a rock that echoed British troop movements .
7. Bindhyabasini Mountain (Sankrida)
- Location: 35 km from Bargarh.
- Highlights:
- Temple atop a hill with 200 acres of
lush landscape.
- Annual Chaitra Purnima festival draws
crowds .
8. Budharaja Mountain (Papanga Hill)
- Location: 33 km from Bargarh.
- Highlights:
- Forest garden (Bankhol), temples, and
a yogashram.
- Linked to Veer Surendra Sai’s
rebellion .
Famous food of Bargarh District
Bargarh district, known as the "Rice Bowl of
Odisha," offers a unique culinary blend influenced by its agrarian culture
and tribal traditions. Here are the most famous foods and dishes from Bargarh:
1. Pakhala Bhata
- A staple dish of fermented rice soaked in
water, often served with Badi Chura (sun-dried lentil dumplings crushed with
spices), fried fish, or Alu Bharta (mashed potatoes with mustard oil and
onions). This dish is especially popular during summers .
2. Alu Dum & Bara
- Alu Dum: Spicy potato curry cooked with
mustard oil and local spices, often paired with Bara (deep-fried lentil cakes).
A common street food and festival snack .
3. Chhena Poda
- A caramelized cheesecake-like dessert made
from roasted cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom. A specialty of Odisha, also
widely enjoyed in Bargarh .
4. Manda Pitha
- Steamed rice flour dumplings stuffed with
coconut, jaggery, or spiced lentils. Traditionally prepared during festivals
like Nuakhai (harvest festival) .
5. Dhuska
- Deep-fried rice and lentil pancakes, crispy
outside and soft inside. Served with ghugni (spicy yellow pea curry) or chutney
.
6. Santula
- A light, nutritious curry made with mixed
vegetables (e.g., pumpkin, brinjal, and raw papaya), tempered with mustard
seeds and panch phoron (five-spice mix). A daily household dish .
7. Pitha (Various Types)
- Kakara Pitha: Fried wheat flour cakes with
coconut-jaggery filling.
- Arisha Pitha: Rice flour fritters sweetened
with jaggery.
- Often prepared during Dhanu Jatra and other
cultural events .
8. Non-Veg Specialties
- Chicken/Mutton Curry: Slow-cooked with
mustard paste, garlic, and local spices.
- Machha Besara: Fish curry with mustard gravy,
a Sambalpuri variant .
9. Street Food & Snacks
- Gupchup (Pani Puri): Filled with tangy
tamarind water and mashed potatoes.
- Samosa & Kachori: Flaky pastries stuffed
with spiced lentils or potatoes .
10. Traditional Beverages
- Landaa Pani: Fermented rice water, a cooling
summer drink.
- Aam Panna: Raw mango drink with mint and
spices .
Cultural Context:
- Nuakhai Festival: Newly harvested rice is offered to
deities and consumed as Nabanna (fresh rice dishes) .
- Dhanu Jatra: Street food stalls serve Alu Dum, Bara, and
sweets like Rasabali .
For authentic experiences, visit local markets like BargarhMarket or try restaurants such as Garnish Café (mixed cuisine) and Subham
Restaurant (pure veg) .