Bargarh

Ashta Shambhu Temples

Temples, heritage and monuments

Under the Chauhan rulers, the architectural heritage of western Odisha witnessed significant expansion through the construction and patronage of Shaivite shrines. One of their most remarkable contributions was the establishment of the Ashta Shambhu temples across the Sambalpur–Bargarh region. This group consists of eight Shaivite shrines, with Bargarh hosting six and Sambalpur housing two. Notable temples in this group include the Bimaleshwar of Huma and the Mandhata Baba temple in Sambalpur, while Bargarh is home to the Kedarnath, Baidyanath, Balunkeshwar, Swapnaneshwar, Biseshwar of Sorada, and Mahakaleshwar temples.

Each temple within Bargarh holds its own unique history and geographic placement. The Balunkeshwar temple, located in Gaisima village, was built between 1766 and 1778 under the patronage of Maharaja Abhay Singh of Sambalpur. It is located just 13 km from Bargarh. The Swapneswar Shiva temple is located in Sorna village, about 35 km distance from Bargarh town. The Baidyanath temple is situated in Deogaon, approximately 7 km from the district headquarters. Further cultural sites include the Biseshwar temple in the Saranda block. It is Located roughly 25 km from the Bargarh district headquarters.  and the renowned Kedarnath temple in Ambabhona. It is 35 km from the district headquarters of Bargarh. These sites not only serve as spiritual centers but also reflect the rich Chauhan heritage of the district.