Mandhata Mahadev Temple (Maneswar).

Nestled in the quiet village of Maneswar, just 10 to 16 km from Sambalpur city and around 40 kms from Debrigarh Nature Camp in Odisha, stands the Mandhata Mahadev Temple—popularly known as Maneswar Temple. This 16th-century architectural marvel seamlessly blends deep-rooted spiritual lore, royal heritage, and a unique ecological sanctuary.

As one of the revered Ashtasambhu (8 sacred Shiva shrines) of the region, it draws thousands of devotees, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers year-round.

The King’s Vow & The Divine Dream

King Baliar Singh was a devout follower of Lord Shiva. Every single morning, after taking an early bath, he would travel all the way from Sambalpur to Maneswar to get Darshan of the self-immersed (Swayambhu) Shivalinga before consuming his first meal of the day.

One fateful monsoon morning, the river Malti swelled into a raging torrent. Unable to cross the river to reach Maneswar, the heartbroken King refused to eat and spent the day in fasting and prayer. That night, Lord Shiva appeared in the King’s dream, deeply moved by his devotion. The Lord instructed the King to build a new temple at Balibandha in Sambalpur, where another Shivalinga would emerge so the King would never have to miss his daily prayers again.

Today, the original shrine in Maneswar remains a powerful epicentre of faith, affectionately referred to by locals as ‘Mandhata Baba’. Today, the Mandhata Mahadev Temple features an underground Shivalinga and is famous for a temple pond populated by hundreds of ancient, worshipped turtles.