Tourist Places In Sonepur

 Subarnapur district, also known as Sonepur, is a place of rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and natural beauty, situated at the confluence of the Mahanadi and Tel rivers in Odisha. It's often referred to as the "Second Varanasi of India" due to its numerous temples and also the "Second Allahabad" because of the river confluence.

Here are some of the main tourist places in Subarnapur:

Temples and Spiritual Sites:

• Subarnameru Temple: This is a very popular Shiva temple located on the bank of the Tel River. It is believed that the district's name "Subarnapur" is derived from this temple.

• Sureswari Temple: Situated on the banks of the Tel River, this ancient temple is revered as the presiding deity of Subarnapur. It's known as a seat of Yantra, Mantra, and Tantra.

• Pancharatha Temple: Located in the center of Sonepur town, this beautiful Shiva temple is constructed in the shape of a chariot, resembling the famous Konark Sun Temple. It houses five shrines on a single platform, dedicated to Shiva, Parvati, Kartikeya, Ganesh, and Vrushav.

• Lankeswari Temple: A unique shrine located inside the Mahanadi River at Sonepur town. Goddess Lankeswari was historically the presiding deity of the region, which was once known as "Paschima Lanka."

• Samaleswari Temple: Situated near Sonepur town, this temple is dedicated to Maa Samaleswari, the presiding deity of the Chauhan rulers.

• Rameswar Temple: Located at the confluence of the Mahanadi and Tel rivers, this ancient temple features a revered Shiva lingam. Legend associates Lord Rama with its installation.

• Gundicha Temple: Also known as the Nrusinghanath Temple of Sonepur, it's one of the highest monuments in Sonepur, representing the Chauhan dynasty.

• Patali Srikhetra: This site, located at the foothills of Trikut Hill in Kotsamalai, holds significant historical and religious importance. It's believed that the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra were hidden in the Trikut caves for 144 years.

• Bhima Bhoi Samadhi Pitha, Khaliapali: Situated about 30 km from Sonepur, this is the samadhi mandir (tomb shrine) of the revered poet and prophet Bhima Bhoi, a prominent figure of the Mahima Dharma.

• Maa Metakani Temple: Located in a forest near Ullunda.

• Kapileswar Temple: Another important Shiva temple in the district.

• Papakshya Ghat, Binika: A ghat on the Mahanadi River where it's believed that a holy dip can wash away sins. Legend says King Anatabhima Dev of Puri was cured of a disease after bathing here.

• Sashisena Temple (Nimunhi Temple): Located near Sonepur town, it's considered a center of Buddhist culture, housing stone images of Buddhist heritage.

Natural and Other Attractions:

• Thengo Dam: Located in the Birmaharajpur Block, this is a popular picnic spot with a beautiful natural environment, part of the Harihara Jora Irrigation Project. It's a great place for birdwatching, especially during winter.

• Mahanadi Ghats: The Mahanadi River, the longest in Odisha, flows through Sonepur, and there are several picturesque ghats (riverbanks) like Tentli Ghat, Rajaghat, and Dasamatighat, offering serene views and opportunities for relaxation.

• Tosha Hill View & Reservoir: A scenic location with lush greenery, ideal for enjoying nature.

Subarnapur is also known for its rich handicrafts, particularly silk, handloom, terracotta, and brass metal works, making it an interesting place for cultural exploration. The best time to visit is generally from September to March when the weather is pleasant.