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  

 

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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.  

  Why Visit?  

- 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  

 Bargarh is a hidden gem in Odisha, offering a perfect mix of spirituality, history, and nature. From the sacred Nrusinghanath Temple to the adventurous Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, every corner of this district has a story to tell.  

 

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 

 Bargarh district in Odisha is home to several beautiful waterfalls, primarily nestled in its lush forests and wildlife sanctuaries. Based on the search results, here are the known waterfalls in the district:

 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) .