The short answer
Leaning Temple of Huma: what visitors should know first
Yes, as a half-day outing combined with the river. The temple is modest in size but memorable, and the river bank is pleasant. Go on a weekday morning, and avoid Shivaratri if you dislike crowds.
History and context
The story behind Leaning Temple of Huma
Tradition links the original shrine to the Ganga ruler Anangabhima Deva III, while records credit King Baliar Singh of Sambalpur (reigned 1660 to 1690) with rebuilding or renovating the temple. Other shrines in the complex were built under King Ajit Singh in the late 18th century.
Useful facts
Leaning Temple of Huma facts at a glance
- Location
- Huma village, on the Mahanadi, about 25 km south of Sambalpur
- Faith
- Hindu (Shaiva)
- Deity
- Lord Bimaleswar (Shiva)
- Visitor note
- Remove footwear; dress modestly
- Built
- Rebuilt or renovated under Baliar Singh, 1660 to 1690
- Festival
- Shivaratri fair, usually in February-March
Why it matters
Why Leaning Temple of Huma is worth your time
Few Indian temples lean this visibly, and the main sanctum at Huma tilts while its spire stands upright. The cause is not settled; theories include shifting rock under the temple and river action, and local priests report that the angle has not changed in decades.
The temple also joins a living tradition of river worship. Its Shivaratri fair is among the larger gatherings in the district, and the Mahanadi setting makes it a pleasant counterpoint to the dam and city sights.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The lean
The sanctum tilts while its spire rises straight, a feature that rewards a look from the gate.
- 02
Kudo fish
Tame fish at the river ghat take food from visitors' hands.
- 03
The river bank
The Mahanadi frontage gives a calm, wide view and a shaded place to rest.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Reach Huma by road from Sambalpur, following the river south; the drive takes about 45 minutes to an hour. At the temple, spend a few minutes looking at the lean from a distance, because the effect is clearest from the road and the gate. Then go inside for darshan; the main shrine is dedicated to Bimaleswar, a form of Shiva, and smaller shrines, including one to Bhairavi, stand beside it.
Walk down to the ghat to see the kudo fish, large river fish that gather to be fed by hand. Local belief says they must never be caught, and a stone figure at the temple retells the story of a woman who is said to have been turned to stone for doing so. Stay on the steps and avoid wading.
The river bank has small stalls, and the view across the Mahanadi is calm and wide. Combine the temple with the lunch stop in Sambalpur.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Go on a weekday morning
- Dress modestly and remove footwear
- Stay on the ghat steps and do not enter the water
- Check the Shivaratri date if you want to see, or avoid, the fair
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Huma, on the Mahanadi, about 25 km south of Sambalpur
- Time needed
- 1.5 to 2 hours
- Best time
- Morning; Shivaratri in February-March brings a large fair
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The temple stands on a raised platform with a short climb and steps at the river ghat, and the ground can be uneven. Seating is scarce; the shaded area near the ghat is the best place to rest.
- Tickets and access
- Free entry to the temple. Remove footwear at the entrance and dress modestly. Feeding fish at the ghat uses small purchased feed; confirm what is allowed. Shivaratri brings heavy crowds.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Leaning Temple of Huma
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The temple stands on a raised platform with a short climb and steps at the river ghat, and the ground can be uneven. Seating is scarce; the shaded area near the ghat is the best place to rest.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Why does the Huma temple lean?
The cause is not settled; theories include shifting rock beneath, river floods and earthquakes. Priests say the angle has not changed in decades.
Can I touch or catch the fish?
The kudo fish are fed by hand at the ghat. Catching them is considered taboo locally.
How far is Huma from Sambalpur?
About 25 km, roughly 45 minutes to an hour by road.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.