This small town in the state of Orissa was famous as the trade centre for diamonds in the past and today is famous for its tie and dye style of colourful textiles. The Hirakund dam and the folk art of the region is equally famous. The region near Sambalpur is heavy forested region and the place is inhabited with many tribes. The other important reason to reach Sambalpur is the Ushakothi wild life reserve, which is hardly about 50 kms from the town. One can spot the rare species of leopards and black panthers in this 130 sq km national park.