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Myoksha Travels

Hinglaj Mata Temple

Goddess Hinglaj Mata Temple – The Goddess of Flame

Mother Hingula is worshiped as agni (fire) in the kitchen of Lord Jagannath at Shree Mandir Puri. Goddess Hingula is worshiped at a distance of 14 from Talcher. It is believed that one can achieve his desired object if they worship or meditates on Goddess Hingula. It is also believe that cooking foods become delicious through the blessings of the Goddess. The tribal Kandha Goddess Hingula is worshiped as an integrated Goddess of the Aryans and the Non-Aryans through the process of historical evolution. Since the Goddess is still worshiped by Sabari versus the palm leaf manuscript which is being worshiped here needs further research, which may reveal important socio cultural factors of the ancient tribal life. It is described in the Mahabharata that Goddess Hingula was worshiped by King Nala of Suryavanshi. It is by her grace that king Nala was able to prepare Gouri-Sauri Paka . Thus the name of Goddess Hingula is associated with cooking with perfection. The earlier practice of animal sacrifice is no more. Now only vegetable and sweets are offered as Bhog. Hingula represents fire and every year appears in the form of flame at different places. The goddess is being worshipped in two sites, one in the Hinglaj Mata Temple and the other on a raised platform with a big applique atop tied to four wooden poles around. The platform is fenced off. On the platform, a heap of coal is set on fire. The fire stand for the goddess. The devotees after having done their Darshan of Goddess Hingula in her temple (Hinglaj Mata Temple), return to worship her at the fireplace.The offerings are thrown into the flames. In the nearby site, thousands of kids sit in tandem and a handful of barbers shave their heads.

Hinglaj Mata Temple

Hinglaj Mata Temple History

  • Once Dakhya, the father-in-law of Lord Shiva was organizing a ceremony of sacrifice (Yagnya). He had invited many gods, goddesses, kings of repute, saints and seers to attend the ceremony. However, he did not care to invite his daughter Parvati (Sati) and son-in-law Siva. Knowing about celebration of Yagnya, she pleaded with Siva to go to her paternal home. Siva however denied on the ground that she has not been invited.
  • Though her husband denied, Parvati attended the ceremony. At the ceremony site, she was laughed at, for having married to a nude man, living in graveyard. Parvati being unable to bear humiliation of her revered husband, threw herself in the flames of the Jagnya and killed herself.
  • When Siva got this news, raged in anger he dashed off Prajapati’s palace. He recovered the half burnt body of Parvati from the fire and was about to kill everybody there and destroy the whole creation. Lord Vishnu came to the place and saw that the dead body of Parvati was fueling the anger of Siva and ordered his Chakra to destroy the body.
  • The weapon cut the body into 51 pieces. Wherever each piece fell down, there Mother Goddess appeared in one name or the other. Goddess Hingula is one of the 51 forms of the Goddess.This is the origin of Goddess Hingula at Talcher.
  • A piece identified as Brahmandreya fell at Baluchistan of present Pakistan where shakti appeared in burning fire state. In course of time Nala Raja of Vidarbha region of western India has became the devotee Of Maa, who resided in his kingdom. In Puri When Raja decide to start ‘anna prasad’ Lord Jagannath responding to his prayer asked him to bring Hingula to manage his kitchen.
  • Accordingly Puri Raja went to Vidarbha  and requested him to pray Maa to come to Puri. Nala Raja on the request of Puri Raja brought the Goddess on his wrapper in form of fire and in course of his journey reached at Gopalgarh where he took rest.

Significance of Hinglaj Mata Temple

  • The worship of Maa Hingula represents a mixture of tribal worship and Sakta Cult. Before some days of the Chaturdashi, Maa appears near the Hinglaj Mata Temple and informs the chief ‘Dehury’ about the location of the burning spot which is kept surrounded with heaps of coal till the yatra.
  • Devotees from around the world visit the place and worship the the site of the burning flame with coconut, ghee, milk, cheese, clothes, bangles etc. The offerings is thrown into the burning flame.

Hinglaj Mata Temple Timings

Hinglaj Mata Temple remains open from 5:00 AM in the morning to 8:30 PM at night. There are different pujas and rituals performed as per the schedule. The morning puja is performed at 5:00 AM followed by Aarti and Bal Bhog at 6:15 AM. Hinglaj Mata Temple remains closed in the afternoon from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM. The evening aarti is performed at 6:15 PM followed by the Bhog.

Rituals performed at Hinglaj Mata Temple

  • Majana: Majana is performed in the morning before the sun set and also in in the evening. In the morning the deities are cleaned by the sacred water and this is conducted by the Dehuri. The deities are then decorated with sarees, bangles, sindur and alata. The deities are decorated with five types of flowers such as Mandar, Anlei and leaves like bail and barun leaves.
  • Pancha Upachar and Bal Bhogh: After the Manjana the pancha-upachar is performed. The deities are offered with the incense sticks along with deepa. The Bal bhog consists of coconuts, seasame seed ladoo, Ukkuda and sweets.
  • Kanika Bhog: After the Bal bhog the Kanika bhog is offered to the deities.
  • Madhyahna Bhog: It is the mid day offerings made to the deities in the afternoon. It includes complete meal such as Rice, Dal, Kheer, curry etc.
  • Pahada: It is observed as the rest time for the deities and the temple remains closed during this time. But during special occasions the temple remains open throughout the day.
  • Reopening: After the day time pahada the temple is reopened.
  • Evening Majana: After the morning majana the same procedure is performed in the evening. The deities are decorated and made ready for the evening aarti.
  • Sandhya Aarti and Pana-Bhog:The sandhya aarti is performed in the evening followed by the Pana bhog that consists of bananas, sweets and ladoos.
  • Pahada: After the sandhya aarti that is performed for 2 hours the deities go to take rest and the temple remains closed during this tenure.

Festivals celebrated at the Hinglaj Mata Temple

  • Hingula Yatra: There is a popular belief among the local people that on this day of Visuba Sankranti Goddess Hingula appears and propitiation to her removes all evil forces. She is worshipped in the village street on her imaginary stride to the village. Offering to her includes spitted new cloth, Pana(sweet-water), butter lamp and green mangoes. Those who observe fasting, especially women are called ‘Osati’. Prior to the day of worship the fasting worshippers (mostly men) move from village to village with the sacred-pitcher symbolising the Goddess. Their religious procession is always accompanied by singing and dancing. These worshippers are called Patuas. The man who dances with the holy-pitcher on his head wears a black skirt, a red blouse and a long piece of black cloth tightly covering the head and having equal length on both sides to flow.  Those who walk on fire are known as Nian Patua and those on thorns are called Kanta Patua. Some worshippers stand on edged swords and are carried on open palanquins. They are caned Khanda Patua. Some of them show some feats in deep water. They are called Pani Patuas.  Especially all these festivals are celebrated a Shiva or Shakti Shrine.
  • Nuakhai: Khambeswar Mahadev and Khambeswari Devi, who remain on the left side of the pandal are worshiped without lighting any candle (Deepa). They are called Dark Gods (Andhari Devata or Pidha). The legend states them to have come under darkness from Boudha the shelter of Goddess Hingula, when Buddhist religion spread in the region. It is for this reason that they are called Andhari Pitha (Dark Seat). After this the Patiara being possessed by Hingula is worshipped. He arrives at the place of appearance of the Goddess in the form of Kalishi and it is at this place that is body gets dispossessed (from Kalishi). Then Dehury carries the mobile image `Alam` to the place of appearance where she is offered worship. The king along with his family come to the place and offer oblations (Ahuti) to the Goddess.  the freshly harvested paddy rice with gur, ghee, milk, honey and turmeric are mixed thoroughly and offered to the deity in called Nakhi. The sacred Nakhi is prepared in unwashed new earthen pots. This is a depiction of tribal culture. The first harvested paddy rice is supplied from the royal granary.
  • Patabari Festival: This festival takes place only when a new king is coronated after the death of the old king. During the occasion Dehury collects five salgram stones from the river Brahmani situated near Nadhara Kamalanga as per the directives of the Goddess.
  • Devi Dussehra: The goddess Hingula Alam is taken on a large procession for her permanent abode to the Dussehra ground where a podium for worship exists. Subsequently, the Alam is taken to Kuteisuni Pitha . It is one of the very important festival and devotees from various places gather to celebrate this festival.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: Biju Pattanaik Airport at Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport to Hinglaj Mata Temple. This airport is well connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Vishakhapatnam, Raipur, Chennai and Hyderabad. Talcher is 154 km Away from Bhubaneswar (Via Banarpal).

By Rail: There is no direct train network to Maa Hingula’s Temple but one can reach up to Talcher (TLHR), Talcher Road(TLHD) and Angul(ANGL) station.  Bhubaneswar, Puri, Angul, Talcher and Sambalpur are the major rail heads for the state.

By Road: The National Highways 23, 42, 55 and 200 pass through the state Odisha which are connected with Angul and Talcher, the two most nearest places to Gopal Prasad. Regular Bus services are available to Angul and Talcher from major cities of Odisha throughout the day. Talcher is 60 km away from Dhenkanal, 154 km Away from Bhubaneswar (Via Banarpal), 182 km from sambalpur, and 200kms from Rourkela.

Where to stay

There are many accommodation facilities near the temple. There is also a Yatri Niwas that is situated near the temple. There are good hotels located at Talcher.

  • Hotel Siddharth Regency: NH200, Talcher, Odisha 759107
  • Hotel Shakti International: Handidhua, Talcher, Odisha 759100
  • Hotel Brundaban: Hatatota, Talcher, Odisha
  • Trimurti hotel: Talcher, Odisha 759100
  • Green Park Hotel: Near By pass square, Talcher, Odisha 759107
  • Hotel Durga: NH-55, Turanga, Angul, Odisha 759123
  • Kamlesh Continental: Industrial Estate, Tamrit Colony, Angul, Odisha 759145
  • Hotel Prasanti Pvt. Ltd: Near NH 55, Turanga, Angul, Odisha 759123

Nearby Temples

  • Sri Sri Baladev Jew Temple: Sri Sri Baladev Jew Temple is one of the historic temples of Orissa, situated at Ichhapur near Kendrapara. The main temple has a 7 step construction and heavy baul amalia stone are used in this construction. There are other small temples inside the premise, where other Gods and Goddesses are worshipped. All the temples have a beautiful architecture and constructed in traditional way. The area covered by the structure is 2 Acre 6 Decimal.  The total area is divided into 2 parts. First part includes different temples and second part is garden. The boundary wall (Bedha) around the temple is 14 feet high.
  • Udala, Ambika temple: Devi Ambika Temple (Incarnation of Goddess Durga) is a temple which can spellbound every visitor. It is surrounded by great waterfalls and thick forest. This temple was built by the royal dynasty of Mayurbhanj in 1940. Devkund waterfall is situated in dense forest of Sal making it lush green area during the Rainy season. The area has variety of flora and fauna and makes it a perfect habitat for tropical birds and animals. Tiger Reserve of Simlipal is located in the periphery of Devkund. In all there are 5 waterfalls which fall into Kund and thus the place also named as Pancha Kunda. These 5 waterfalls are Amrit Kund, Ghrita Kund, Haladi Kund, Devkund and Devi Kund. At 100 steps above the waterfall near the river source sacred temple of Devi Ambika is located.
  • LingaRaj Temple: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as ‘Lingaraj’. It is adorned with beautiful sculptures, which have been carved on the spire. Lingaraja temple is approximately 54.8 metres high and enshrines a huge statue of Lord Shiva, made up of granite. Lingaraj Temple was built by the King Jajati Keshari, who belonged to Soma Vansh. It is thought that when the King shifted his capital from Jaipur to Bhubaneshwar, he started the construction of Lingaraj Temple. The main attractions of worship are the architecture of the temple itself. The Lingaraj shrine is known to be an overwhelming sight as it is the largest temple, in terms of height and distance, in the city. It is surrounded by old and intricate sculptures.
  • Maa Tarini Temple: The origin of Shakti or worship of the Earth as a female embodiment of power is found across many cultures all over the world. In Orissa which has a high density of tribal population whose religious practices have been assimilated into the mainstream Hindu faith. About 50 km from Keonjhar towards Cuttack Popular for Shrine of Goddess Tarini abode of Maa Durga. There is a saying and it has been proved also, whoever has prayed Maa and offered her a coconut on Tuesday or Saturday, Maa will fulfilled the desire of her Devotees.  

Maa Mangala Temple Kakatpur – Timings, Poojas and History

Maa Mangala Temple is located in Kakatpur in Puri in the Indian state of Orissa. Kakatpur is a small village in Puri District and is situated at a distance of 50 kms from Puri. There are large number of devotees who visit the temple each month. This temple is associated with Puri Lord Jagannath temple.

During the renovation of the deities which is known as Navakalebara, the old deities are buried at a dedicated place in the Jagannath temple and the new idols are shaped for Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. The idols are also made from a very sacred wood which is the Daru Brahma. Nobody knows from where to find the sacred wood to create the new idols, so as per the tradition the priests of Lord Jagannath temple come to Kakatpur Mangala to pray the Goddess to help them to find the sacred wood. The priests sleep in front of the Goddess with their face down and then Goddess Mangala come in their dream and tell the exact location of the three sacred trees for the three deities.

Maa Mangala Temple is built in typical Kalinga style and is a major pilgrimage for devotees of Shakti cult. Pilgrims frequently visit the temple seeking boons from Maa Mangala. Kakatpur Mangala Temple is also known as Sarba Mangala Mandir and it is one of the most celebrated shakti peeth in Puri. This temple is also sometimes called as the Bata Mangala Temple.

Maa Mangala Temple Timings

Maa Mangala Temple remains open on all days of the week. The timings of the temple are from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM in the morning and from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM in the evening. In case of special occasions or festivals, the timings might differ.

Maa Mangala Temple History

  • There is a famous story behind the evolution of the name of the deity as ‘Kakatpur’ Mangala and believed by the local people. Goddess Mangala kept herself hidden under the deep water of river Prachi. Once a boatman was sailing his boat across river Prachi. At that time the river was outpouring and flooded so he was unable to sail his boat to the middle of the river.
  • Goddess Mangala came in his dream and asked him to recover her from the water and to establish her in nearby Mangalapur village. The boatman dived into the water and able to find the deity from the bed of the river. Then as per the direction of the Goddess he established the figure of the deity in a temple in Mangalapur village.
  • After this the boatman saw a black crow dived into the water and did not come out of the water for hours and days, the crow detained inside the water of river Prachi exactly in the same place from where he recovered the figure of Goddess Mangala.
  • In Oriya language the word crow means ‘kaka’ and the word detain means ‘atka.’ Thus, the village is known as ‘Kakatpur’ and the goddess is named as Kakatpur Mangala.
  • That time i.e 500 years ago the then local Jamindar Roychudamoni family made the mandir at Kakatpur with all the Sebak arrangement. This Mandir was built by Panchanan Mitra (Roychudamoni) on 1548 AD. This goddess is very famous with all the qualities of peace, power, happiness, love, purity, knowledge & truth.

Significance of the Maa Mangala Temple

  • Pilgrims and devotees visiting the temple seek boons from Maa Mangala. There is a bed made of solid stone on which it is said Maa Mangala rests after touring the entire universe everyday. As if to attest to this, the bed looks worn out in just the same way it would if it were in use for centuries.
  • The ‘Bhaktas’ who really want to acquire knowledge on lord Jagannath and Goddess Maa Sarba Mangala must read the book which is written by Raghunandan Panda, Sebak of Maa Sarba Mangala. He was a teacher and belongs to Kakatpur. He has spent almost 25 years from his busy schedule in doing research on Kakatpur Mangala. He has shared all his experience in the form of his book which will enlighten the whole story. The book is available only in Kakatpur.

Maa Mangala Temple Rituals

Mangala is Arupa (formless) and has become Sarupa (took form). Throughout the year, and days the ‘Niti’ ‘Puja’ is being done in ritualistic manner. ‘Prasadams’ are available for the devotees. Many patients come to remain in “Dharana” in prostrate form to get themselves cured.

Festivals celebrated at the Maa Mangala Temple

Jhamu Yatra: Jhamu Yatra is the most popular festival of Goddess Mangala which falls on the first Tuesday of the Vaisakh every year. On this occasion devotees collect water from river Prachi and pray to get her blessings. Then with the mud pot, filled with water, on their shoulder, they are able to walk on the surface of burning fire spread on a long channel on bare feet. Due to their faith on Goddess Mangala and her blessings on them, the devotee are unhurt and uninjured while performing such a risky custom. Every year thousands of devotees come to Kakatpur to celebrate the Jhamu festival.

Maa Mangala Temple has a close relation with Lord Jagannath Temple of Puri during the Navakalebara (Renovation of the Deities) festival. The new idols are created from a sacred wood known as “Daru”. As per the tradition the priests of Lord Jagannath temple come to Kakatpur Mangala to pray the Goddess to help them to find the sacred wood. The priests visit the goddess and offer her the things brought for the Banajaga Yatra and then Goddess at night shows the direction of the sacred wood or daru in their dreams. This custom has been performed from years together without any deviation. This shows the power and energy of Goddess Mangala and her blessings for her devotees.

Dhanu Yatra: It is a popular drama festival held at Bargarh of Western Odisha. The play is the enactment of the story of Lord Krishna and his demon uncle King Kansa. It features the Lord’s visiting Mathura for witnessing the ceremony of “Bow” or “Dhanu” organized by evil Kansa. The play continues for 7 to 11 days and attracts large number of viewers. Dhanu Yatra is celebrated for eleven days of the month from the 5th day of the bright fortnight till the full moon day.  The festive mood of people made them enact the victory of Lord Krishna, the embodiment of truth, justice and righteousness over Kansa who personifies arrogance and wickedness. The epic play was just a symbolic representation of Indians victory over unfair British rule.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: Nearest airport from this temple is the Bhubaneshwar airport which is 65 Km from this place. Bhubaneswar is connected by air with flights to major Indian cities like New Delhi, Calcutta, Visakhapatnam, Ranchi, Chennai and Mumbai etc. All major domestic airlines like Air Deccan, Jetlite, Kingfisher, Indian Airlines have daily flights to/from Bhubaneswar. The nearest International Airport is at Calcutta (Kolkata).

Travellers flying from Europe or America (east): The best way to reach Puri is to fly either to Calcutta (Kolkata), Mumbai (Bombay) or Delhi and then fly to Bhubaneshwar. Travellers flying from Australia or California could fly directly to Chennai (Madras) or Calcutta (Kolkata) and then fly to Bhubaneshwar.

By Rail: Puri is the nearest railway station from the temple. Puri is a terminus on the East Coast Railway having direct express and super fast train links with New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Okha, Ahmedabad, Tirupati etc. Some important trains are Kolkata (Howrah) Puri Howrah Express, Jagannath Express; New Delhi; Purushottam Express. Khurda Road Station, 44 km, from Puri is convenient rail head for train to Chennai and Western India.

Some of the important trains from New Delhi

1) Purshottam Express Leaves New Delhi on Day 1 and arrives at Puri on Day 3 (the distance is about 1866 kms) journey Time approx 31 hours.

2) Puri Express Leaves New Delhi on Day 1 and arrives at Puri on Day 2 (the distance is about 1794 kms) journey Time approx 30 hours.

3) Neelachal Express Leaves New Delhi on Day 1 and arrives at Puri on Day 2 (the distance is about 1910 kms) journey Time approx 35 hours.

By Road:  Kakatpur Mangala Temple is 50 Km from Puri. The bus stand near the Gundicha Temple provides connections to Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, service every 10-15 minutes. Minibuses to Konark leave every 20-30 minutes and also from Jatiababa Chhak. There are direct buses for Kolkata and Visakhapatnam. Puri is linked with Bhubaneswar by state highway no.8 and Bhubaneshwar is situated along the National Highway no.5 connecting Chennai and Kolkata. The best way to go from Bhubaneswar to Puri is on one of the State Govt. buses, mini buses and tourist buses leaving from Bhubaneswar main bus stand.

Where to stay

There are many good hotels and resorts available near Maa Mangala Temple for the accommodation.

  • Lotus Resort: Near Ramachandi Temple,Konark-Puri Marine Drive Road, 752111 – Konark
  • Sun Temple Hotel: Near Bus Stand, Konark, 752111 – Konark
  • The Pearl: River Side Retreat Puri konark Marine Dr Rd, 752002
  • Nature Camp Konark Retreat: Khalakata Patna, Ramchand
  • Marwadi Hotel and Lodge: Konark, konark marine drive puri
  • Surya Inn: Near Canara Bank, Near Canara Bank
  • Lotus resort Ramchand Beach: Konark Puri Marine Drive
  • OYO Homes Konark Sun Temple: Near Sun Temple

Where to eat

There are numbers of local dhabas (food-joints) serving vegetarian and non-vegetarians food. Apart from relishing the local delicacies, fish fry prepared in Bengali-style is highly suggested. Apart of Indian cuisines, continental and chinese dishes are also available at an affordable rate.

  • Santi Restaurant: Shanti Restaurant & Bar, Unit-2, Ashok Nagar, Bhubaneshwar
  • Sun Temple Restaurant: SH 13, Khelar, Orissa
  • Madhuban: Toshali Sands Ethnic Village Resort, Konark Marine Drive
  • Peace Restaurant: Chakratirtha Road, Puri, Odisha
  • Bamboo: C T Road, Puri, Odisha, 752002
  • The Gajapati: Chakratirtha Road, Puri, Odisha
  • Wildgrass Restaurant: VIP Rd, Puri, Odisha 752001
  • Chung Wah Restaurant: VIP Road, Puri, Odisha, 752001

Nearby Temples

Shri Jagannath Temple: The origin of the sacred shrine of Jagannath goes back to the pre-Vedic period and Purusottam Kshetra, the sacred abode of Sri Jagannath, has been described in various Sanskrit works, such as the ‘Padma Parana’, ‘Narada Purana’, ‘Matsya Parana’, etc. There is a  monumental and magnificent Shrine at Shri Purusottam-Kshetra (Puri, Orissa) one of the four major Dhamas of India. The cult of Jagannath came to be regarded as the religion of masses ‘Gana Dharma’. That means Jagannath cult is a unique cult. Indian culture has reached its culmination in the unique culture of Lord Jagannath. It is more than a cult — an all-embracing synthesis of cults. It has combined diverse faiths, cultures, creeds and ideologies.  He is also known as Jagabandhu. He is the friend, philosopher, guide and the anchor of the purest thoughts of the people of the entire Universe.

Shree Lokanath Temple: Lokanath Temple is ranked next to Shri Jagannath Temple.  This  temple  is  at  a  distance of  about  two  kilometers to  the  west  of  the  Shri Jagannath Temple. Lord  “Siva”  and  “Mata  Parvati”  are  the  main  deities of  the  temple. The unique feature is that the shivalinga is always under water which substantiates the legend that Goddess Ganga flows through the top of the shivalinga as a stream.  Lord   Rama constructed    the temple in “Tretaya Yuga”.

Konark Sun Temple: Konark is one of the well known tourist attractions of Orissa. Konark houses a colossal temple dedicated to the Sun God. Konark is one of the most famous tourist destinations in India from the spiritual standpoint and boasts of one of the best known architectural specimen. The tourists coming to Konark also visit the Chandrabhaga Beach, one of the most exotic beaches in Odisha. The konark city is also known world over for its fairs and festivals. Millions of devotees gather here to take a holy dip in this river on the occasion as this dip is believed to be a sure cure for all illnesses.

Panchalingeshwar Temple: Panchalingeswar Temple is situated on the hilltop of the Eastern Ghats in Panchalingeshwar, Nilagiri, Baleswar district. It’s a beautiful place for picnic, darshan of Shiva Linga and breath some fresh air from the real nature.  The five round “Shiva Linga” are worshipped as Panchalingeswar (Pancha means five in Odia).

Panchalingeshwar

Panchalingeshwar Temple: Temple with 5 Lingas

Panchalingeshwar Temple is in Balasore district of Orissa. Panchalingeshwar Temple is situated on the hilltop of the Eastern Ghats in Panchalingeswar, Nilagiri, Balasore district of Orissa. The Shivalingas are said to have been enshrined by Sita, the wife of Lord Rama during their exile. Pachalingeswar temple is  situated in Western ghat of odisha near Nilagiri hill. A beautiful flowing stream, which is the real attraction of the area, regularly flows over the Shivalingas. On reaching the top one has to bend down, and search for the Linga’s inside a pool created by the waterfall. It is said that there are 5 linga’s – hence the name Panchalingeshwar. Tourists are  attracted by the village of Panchalingeswar to visit the Panchalingeswar temple, the shrine of Lord Shiva.To touch the lingas one has to lie flat on a rock and get a feel of the lingas. The temple one can also savor the spectacular sight of small tribal villages and hamlets as you trek through the forests of the Nilagiri.

One has to climb 263 stairs in order to reach the Panchalingeshwar Temple. The stream and waterfall grow in size during the monsoons and the Pancha Lingas becomes difficult to locate by hand. The approach to the temple is scenic as it is surrounded by a forest. Visitors can also go to  Sajanagarh, near to Panchalingeshwar, to see the Budarachandi temple.  As the name implies Panchalingeshwar is famous for its unique ‘panchalinga’ or the five lingas of Lord Shiva enshrined in the temple. If you love trekking, then one can trek at the Nilagiri Hills. Enjoy your trips in the nearby sightseeing places.

Panchalingeshwar

Panchalingeshwar History

  • The Shivalingas of Panchalingeshwar are said to have been enshrined by Sita during their period of exile. King Banasura worshiped the Swayambhu Lingas at this place given its beauty. A perennial stream, which is the main attraction of the area, regularly washes the Shivalingas as it flows over them. To reach to the temple one has to lie flat on the rock parallel to the stream to touch and worship the lingas inside the water stream.
  • In 1811 A.D Gobinda Chandra Mardaraj Harichandan, the son of King Mandhata Ramachandra was enthroned as the next king who ruled from 1811 A.D. to 1848 A.D. Krishna Chandra Mardaraj Harichandan was enthroned in 1849 A.D after the death of his father.
  • Arnapurnna Devi who was his queen had a dream in which Lord Shiva ordered her to worship his five Phallus symbols engraved in a grove in a pit of flowing stream of water in east of Ahuti valley.
  • As said by the queen,  the king and his courtiers, counselors, and minister went to Ahuti forest and searched for the 5 Shiva lingams. When they relocated the lingas everyone uttered the slogan ‘Jay Baba Panchalingeswara’. From that day onward the name of that place is Panchalingeswara.
  • Late Bihari Kar of Basudevpur was appointed as the first priest for worship in the temple. King worshiped the emblems and made all sorts of arrangements to worship Baba Panchalingeswara.
  • It is believed that Lord Shri Ram Chandra, Sita and Laxman spent 5 days in this valley during their period of exile in the Ahuti Valley. The legendary Pandavas used to reside in this valley and concealed themselves from kauravas.

Significance of the Panchalingeshwar Temple

The name Panchalingeswar means five Siva Lingas. ‘Pancha’ menace five and ‘lingeswar’ menace lord Shiva. The important things in panchalingeswar temple are the five Siva Lingas, a small stream is coming through the hill Nilagiri and gathering at the five Siva Lingas. The Lings are present inside the stream and worshipped.

The small waterfall becomes bigger during the monsoons and the 5 rock piece kind of formation called the Pancha Lingas becomes difficult to locate. To reach to the sanctuary one needs to lie level on the stone parallel to the stream to touch and love the Lingas inside the water stream.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: The Nearest airports are at Bhubaneshwar 294 km and at Kolkata, 206 Km.Land at Bhubaneswar airport and travel to Balasore via Bus.

By Rail:  Balasore is the nearest railway station. One can reach to the Baleswar Railway Station and then easily reach to the temple area.

  • Trains from Kolkata(Howrah): FALAKNUMA EXPRESS., EAST COAST EXP, COROMANDAL EXP, SRIJAGANNATH EXP, HWH YPR EXP, HWH PURI EXPRESS
  • From New Delhi: PURSHOTTAM EXP, PURI EXP, NEELACHAL EXP, ORISSA SAMPARK KRNTI
  • From Chennai Central (Egmore): COROMANDEL EXP, HOWRAH MAIL

By Road: Buses for Panchalingeswar are available from Balasore, Baripada, Chandipur, etc. Taxi, car transport is also available from these towns. It will take 30 minutes /45 minutes through hired taxi.

Where to stay

One can stay at Govt. accommodations in Panchalingeswar, which is operated by the Orissa Tourism Department Corporation. There are also a few standard hotels and private resorts at the location. Good hotels are available in Balasore town. The Panthanivas at Panchalingeswar also provides accommodation for visitors. For Reservations, contact: Tourist Officer, Balasore, Near Police Line.  

Where to eat

There are varieties food are available here, which is very delight & tasty. All the restaurants typically provide with Bengali , Oriya,Western ,Chinese & South Indian Dishes.There are many restaurants located close to and around the Chandipur Beach that offer the best of dishes and other Indian cuisines. Some other popular eating joints around Chandipur Beach are Fantasy Restaurant and Rainbow Restaurant.

Nearby Temples

Chandaneswar: Another 6 km towards west from Digha, there is Chandaneswar, which is famous for a Shiva Temple. In the month of Chaitra which is in the last month of Bengali calendar year, an annual fair is organised around this temple. Pilgrims from all over the country, especially from Orissa, Bengal, Bihar come to this fair. There are bus/rickshaw services from Digha to Chandaneswar. Apart from this, Calcutta-Chandaneswar, Howrah-Balasore, Digha-Baripada buses ply via Chandaneswar.Chandaneswar is located 88 Km from Balasore and famous for Chandaneswar temple. Chandaneswar temple is a holy place. About 4 km from Chandaneswar and 4 km from Digha in West Bengal is the tranquil beach at Talasari, surrounded by casuarina groves.

Langaleswar: The location of the temple by the side of river parvati too creates a scenic beauty and makes another attraction of the place. It is the location where Lord Shiva used to plough the paddy field. In memory of the same plough is there and  hundreds of pilgrims use to gather there to worship the Lord Langaleswar who has been named after that plough. Langaleswar is famous for  Saivasim.

Khirachora Gopinath: The Khirachora Gopinatha temple is situated in Remuna. .It is supposed that Sri Rama carved ‘Gopinath’ with His arrow and that sita worshiped this deity in Chitrakuta. King Langula Narashingha Dev,the king of odisha,brought this Deity to Remuna in the 13th century from Chitrakut. It is supposed that Sri Rama carved ‘Gopinath’ with His arrow and that sita worshiped this deity in Chitrakuta. King Langula Narashingha Dev,the king of odisha,brought this Deity to Remuna in the 13th century from Chitrakut. .It is supposed that Sri Rama carved ‘Gopinath’ with his arrow and that sita worshiped this deity in Chitrakuta. King Langula Narashingha Dev, the king of odisha, brought this Deity to Remuna in the 13th century from Chitrakut.

Bhudharchandi temple: The ancient Bhudhar Chandi Mandir (a temple of Goddess Chandi) that attracts a large number of tourists. The Bhudhar Chandi Mandir is situated in a small village known as Sajanagarh close to the town of Nilgiri and about 15.7 km from the town of Balasore. It is about 13 km from the Sergarh junction on NH-5. Historical evidence gathered from this place shows that the temple was built and established by the Nilgiri king Shri Vasanta Virata Bhujanga Mandhata who ruled during the years 1421 B.C. and 1464 B.C.

Baleswar Temple: The principle Baleshwar sanctuary is devoted to Lord Shiva (who is otherwise called Baleshwar). There are two different sanctuaries in the compound of Baleshwar, one committed to Ratneshwar and other to Champawati Durga. The sanctuary is based on South Indian Architecture with wonderful Stone Carving works. Near to the Baleshwar Temple is a “Naula” (Fresh water asset) which has now become scarce. Upon the arrival of MahaShivRatri, an exceptionally packed reasonable is held in the Baleshwar Temple compound.

Akhandalamani Temple: The Holy Shrine Siva Lingam Baba Akhandalamani is situated in the river bank of Baitarani at Aradi Village of Bhadrak District. It is one of the ancient Shaiva Pitha of Odisha and famous as Mani Baba both in Odisha and outside. There are many fairs and festivals observed at the temple of Baba Akhandalamani. But Maha Shivaratri is the best among them. This festival is locally known as Jagara Mela. On this day pilgrims and devotees from all places of Odisha are assembled here to worship Akhandalamani at Aradi.

Biranchi Narayana Temple: It is located 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) south of Bhadrak, on the way from Bhadrak to Chandabali.  The existing temple is dedicated to Biranchi-narayan, who is enshrined as a roughly four-faced image of the Sun. A square stone slightly tapering towards the top contains four carved images of the Sun god in relief.  This is the one only one temple of Lord Brahma who is the creator of the World.

Nearby Places

Chandipur Beach: Chandipur Beach is situated under the district of Balasore in the state of Orissa. It is located on Bay of Bengal coastline, the beach attracts travellers from India and different parts of the world. One of the unique features of Chandipur Beach that sets it apart from other beaches of the state is the variance of water level owing to the tides. The place is an ideal weekend retreat for the crowd in the nearby cities who want to get away from the stress of city life.

Devikund Waterfalls: The name suggests Devkund (where god takes bath) water falls into a Kund or pool which is believed to be a sacred pool. In all, there are 5 waterfalls which fall into Kund and thus the place also named as Pancha Kunda. These 5 waterfalls are Amrit Kund, Ghrita Kund, Haladi Kund, Devkund and Devi Kund. At 100 steps above the waterfall near the river source sacred temple of Devi Ambika is located. It is a part of the Udala division of Similipal Forest via Nilagiri/Udala from Panchlingeswar. It is 75 km from Panchalingeswar, 69 km from Kuldiha and 87 km from Balasore.

Kuldhia: This sanctuary is located in the district of Balasore and is blessed with a charming forest and a variety of wildlife such as tiger, leopard, elephant, gaur, sambar, giant squirrel, a number of bird species like leaf-bird, hill myna, peafowl, hornbills and various reptiles. Some cycus plants and surprisingly very few mangrove trees also could be seen at Gudikhola area. The Kuldiha Forest itself is the best attraction to watch out for. The forest is also the home to Tenda Elephant Sanctuary and a Lion Sanctuary.

RajaRani Temple

RajaRani temple is one of the most famous and renowned temple which is located in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Orissa. This temple was built between the 10th and 11th century from the wonderful red and gold sandstone, which is locally known as Rajarani and this is what gives the temple its name of ‘Raja Rani’. This temple is also known as the ‘love temple’ due to the carvings of women and couples in the temple. The temple is an embodiment of architectural stylishness and beauty. The sculptural imagery of the temple is stylish and dynamic. Various postures in the temple portray fascinating images of mundane life like a woman carrying child in the arms, and women appreciating their reflection in the mirrors.

The Raja Rani temple is surrounded by a beautiful garden and is located on open paddy field area. The accentuating miniature replicas of itself decorate the spire, reminiscent of the temples of Khajuraho. It has a square sanctuary and its interior and exterior surfaces are so recessed that it appears circular. The initial duel temples were without the jagamohana as seen in some of the older temples in Bhubaneswar while the later temples had two additional structures namely nata-mandapa which is the festival hall and bhoga-mandapa which is the hall of the offerings.

RajaRani Temple

RajaRani Temple History

  • Bhubaneswar is also known as ‘Temple City’ (as many temples are present in this city). Rajarani Temple was very old temple present since 11th-century. It is also contended that the temple was initially known as Indreswara Temple devoted to the worship of Lord Shiva.
  • Fergusson believed that construction of the temple was begun by around 1105. George Michell believed that the temple was built during the same time as Lingaraja Temple.Rajarani Temple roughly belongs to the same period as the Jagannath Temple at Puri.
  • The architecture of Rajarani Temple is very impressive, it was built on a raised platform with two structures, both structures are equally important. A central shrine called the vimana with a bada over its roof rising to a height of 18 m, and a viewing hall called jagamohana with a pyramidal roof present in this temple.
  • The Raja Rani temple has sculptures of ‘Guardians of the Eight Directions’ which project from the base of the temple to eight different directions. Beginning from the left of the entrance to the ‘Deul’ and proceeding in a clockwise direction, they are:
  1. Indra – East, chief of the 33 Vedic nature deities
  2. Agni – Southeast, Vedic God of fire
  3. Yama – South, God of death
  4. Nirriti – Southwest, deity related to suffering
  5. Varuna – West, a Vedic deity of the ocean
  6. Vayu – Northwest, wind God
  7. Kubera – North, lord of wealth, shown here with a wish-fulfilling tree
  8. Ishana – Northeast, a form of Shiva.

Significance of the RajaRani Temple

  • It is adorned from all sides by spires and fine clusters of turrets. The sculpture of the temple is beyond compare and is quite energetic and alive. The colossal spires are of the most innovative ones and incorporated in building this temple. Its spire is decorated with clusters of turrets emerging form the rib of the spire and attracts the attention of the visitors. Porch of the temple is known as Jagamohana. The porch is constructed in the pyramidal structure and it is very plain.
  • There are certain features of the temple which indicates a Saivite origin such as the presence of Saiva doorkeepers: Prachanda and Chanda, Dvarapla with jatamukha, and a garland of skulls reaching up to and a snake. There are three panels on the facade of the main temple showing images of Shiva dancing with his consort Parvathi in the company of attendants playing musical instruments.
  • The temple no longer has an image of the deity in the sanctuary but its strong Saiva associations are testified from the figures of Shiva and his consort Parvati on the platform and Saiva doorkeepers.

RajaRani Temple Timings

This temple remains open all days of the week from 6 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit the temple is October and March. There is also an entry fee for this temple, Rs. 5 for Indians and Rs. 100 for Foreigners.

Festivals celebrated at the RajaRani Temple 

RajaRani Music Festival: The Rajarani Music Festival held in the beautiful courtyard of the Rajarani Temple in Bhubaneswar is one such occasion to celebrate the richness and originality of Indian classical music. Evening concerts by great maestros of Indian Classical music fill the air with enchanting chimes. The city has a large assemblage of celebrated temples of which the Rajarani Temple is one of the most conspicuous. It’s remarkable for the absence any presiding deity in it. To showcase the glorious tradition of Indian classical music, the Rajarani Music Festival was conceived to be organized by the Department of Tourism in association with organizations like Orissa Sangeet Natak. Musicians from different parts of the country perform during the three-day festival. This festival is held during the month of January. Devotees from different places visit the temple during this period.

How to reach: Road, Rail and Air

By Air: Biju Patnaik Airport around 6 km from the temple. There are different flights moving to Hyderabad, Nagpur, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai and Varanasi.

By Train: The nearest railhead is Bhubaneswar railway station 6 Km from the temple. The Rajdhani express departs from Delhi one day a week on Friday to Bhubaneswar. The Puri-New Delhi Express is a good train to Delhi. The Coromandel Express is also a good train that is going to Chennai. There are also direct trains to Delhi, Agra, Remuna and Varanasi. The city of Bhubaneswar is on the main Kolkata to Chennai line so all the important train stop here.

By Road:  Bermunda Bus stand in Bhubaneswar is the nearest bus stand. One can also travel from Puri buses to Pipli and then get another bus to Konark.

Hotels in Bhubaneswar: Where to stay

  • Hotel Grand Central: Old Station Road , Bhubaneshwar
  • Hotel Arvind Inn: Plot No-9, Janpath, Bapuji Nagar, Bhubaneswar – 751009
  • Ginger Bhubaneswar: Opp Nalco Headquarters, Jaidev Vihar Nayapalli, Bhubaneshwar
  • Hotel Sandys Tower: Plot No. : P-1 & P-1/A, Jaydev Vihar, Bhubaneswar – 751013
  • The Crown: A-1 IRC Village, Nayapalli, Bhubaneshwar
  • Hotel Sishmo: 86/A-1, Gautam Nagar, Bhubaneswar – 751014
  • The New Marrion: 6, Janpath, Bhubaneshwar
  • Hotel Seetal: NH-5, Vani Vihar Square, Bhubaneswar – 751022
  • Hotel Park Resort: 2271 Cuttack Road, Cuttack Puri Road, Bhubaneswar – 751006
  • Pal Heights: Plot No J/7, Jayadev Vihar, Bhubaneswar

Where to eat

Tourists should try the authentic Oriya cuisine. There are varieties of food present for vegetarians as well as non vegetarians.The local specialties that one must relish are Machha Jholo (a fish curry), Gupchup, Cuttack Chaat, Aloo Dum, Dahi Pakhal, Badi Choora, Dalma, Santula and more. The sweets that are offered are Pithas, Kora-Khhaii, Rasabali, Chenna Gaja, Chenna Poda and Rasagola. Abadha or the vegetarian food served in temples is also delicious.

  • Zaika: Ratna Plaza, Lewis Road, Opposite Allahabad Bank, Bhubaneswar
  • Janak Restaurant: Hotel Janapatha, 29 Janpath, Bapujinagar
  • Nandan: Hotel Sishmo, 86/A 1 Gautam Nagar
  • Marrion Hotel: Janpath, Bhubaneswar
  • Chill Ummm: 516/1763/4177 KIIT Road, Patia
  • Sangam: Hotel Sishmo, 86/A 1 Gautam Nagar
  • Golden Bird: Near Federal Bank, 68, Hotel Pushpak, Kalpana Square
  • Hare Krishna Restaurant: Lalchand Market Complex, Janpath, Kharabela Nagar, Bhubaneshwar
  • Vkss Restaurant: VITS Hotel Bhubaneswar, A/19, Cuttack-Puri Road, Near Jatri Niwas
  • Tangerine 9: Master Canteen Area, Kharabela Nagar, Bhubaneswar

Nearby Temples

Bhubaneswar is also known as the city of temples where there are many famous temples around. Bhubaneswar holds the history of 2000 years.

Lingaraj Temple: The Lingaraja temple is said to have been built first by the ruler Yayati Kesari in the 7th century who shifted his capital from Jaipur to Bhubaneshwar. Its spire is around 180 feet tall. There are more than 64 smaller shrines in the sprawling temple complex as well. They are magnificently decorated with sculptures of gods and goddesses, kings and queens, dancing girls, hunters, and musicians. Legend has it that Shiva revealed to Parvati that Bhubaneshwar or Ekamra thirtha was a resort favoured by him over Benares. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple complex.  A total of 22 worship services are offered each day. Once a year, an image of Lingaraja is taken to the Jalamandir in the center of the Bindu Sagar lake.

Mukteshwar Temple: Mukteshwar Mandir is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The term ‘Mukteswara’ suggests “Lord who gives freedom through Yoga” and this is a fact. The splendid Torana of the temple, an ornamental arched gateway, is very much reminiscent of the influence of Buddhism in Orissa. Established in the year 950 AD. You will  find ascetics in various mediation poses on the temple, along with figures from Hindu mythology, folk tales from the Panchatantra (five books of animal fables), as well as Jain munis (monks/nuns). The temple stands within an octagonal compound wall that is based on the lines of structures built in the bygone times.

Brahmeshwar Temple: This temple was Constructed in the 9th century, the temple boasts intricate inside both in the interiors as well as exteriors of the temple. The temple was built by King Udyotakesari’s mother Kolavati Devi during the Somavamsi king’s 18th ruling year. The Brahmeswara Temple is highly applauded for its artistic sculptures that can be seen on the temple’s tower and porch. There are quite a number of tantric related images on the western facade. Shiva and other deities are also pictured in their frightening aspects.

Yogini Temple: Hindu mythology says there are 64 yoginis. A  yogini is an attendant of the Great Goddess. The cult is more or less linked to Tamtrik practises. There is a temple in Orissa dedicated to the 64 yoginis. It is made of black chlorite stone, Yogini Temple also known as Chausati Yogini temple (Chausati – 64) or Mahamaya Temple, is one among the four Yogini temples of India and second of its kind in Orissa. Large number of devotees gathered here to worship the Goddesses on a belief of attaining supernatural powers.

Kedar Gouri Temple: Kedargauri Mandir alias Kedar Gauri Temple, devoted to Lord Shiva (Kedareswar) and Goddess Gouri (Kedar Gouri) is one of the ancient temples at Bhubaneswar. Kedargauri Mandir alias Kedar Gauri Temple, devoted to Lord Shiva (Kedareswar) and Goddess Gouri (Kedar Gouri) is one of the ancient temples at Bhubaneswar. Every year during Shital Sasthi festival, Lord Lingaraj (Shiva) is taken from Lingaraj temple in a grand procession to Kedar Gouri temple, where he marries Devi Parvati.

Vaital Deul Temple: Vaital Deul Temple, built during the 8th century, is a Tantric shrine, located near Bindu Sarovara.  The main deity worshipped in the temple is Goddess Chamunda, who is also known as the Tantric form of Goddess Durga. Chamunda Devi is depicted with a dazzling red tongue protruding out and wearing a garland of skulls. Image of Arjuna driving his chariot is also located at the temple. The best time to visit Vaital Deul Temple is during winters from October till March.

Rameshwar Deula: The Rameshwar temple is an ancient temple dating back to the 12th century A.D. Legend goes as when Rama was returning from Lanka after victory over Ravana,Goddess Sita asked to worship Shiva here.So Ramachandra built a Linga for that purpose. Historically the temple dates back to 9th century. There is also an image of the Durga that is worshipped within the sanctum. The vimana or the top portion of the temple is facing east while the detached jagamohana faces west.

Yameshwar Temple: This is a small temple built of soft sandstone. Yameshwar or Jameshwar Temple is a very old temple dedicated to Shiva being worshiped by Yama.It is situated in Bhubaneswar near Bharati Math,in Jameshwar Patna. There is a spacious courtyard with an imposing compound wall surrounding the temple premises. The recessed niches were once built to house the lingas.Different deities guide all the different part of the dhama. In the eight directions eight forms of Durga are installed: Maricika (east), Vimala (west), Ardhasini (north), Kalaratri (south), Bata mangala (southeast), Lambha (northeast), Candarupa (southwest), Sarva mangala (northwest).

Konark Sun Temple – Timings, Poojas, and History

Konark Sun Temple, a World Heritage site as recognized by UNESCO is considered a jewel in the crown of Indian architecture and is the finest example of temple architecture in Orissa. Konark is a Sanskrit term, formed with the combination of “Kon” which means “angle” and “Ark” which means “the sun”.

Konark Sun Temple Facts-

Temple NameKonark Sun Temple
DeityLord Surya / Sun God
LocationKasia-Tamkuhi Road, Konark, India
Built byKing Narsingha Deva
Built-in1250 AD
Best Time to VisitOctober – March
Spiritual SignificanceHinduism and Buddhism
Significance among DevoteesBoon to become parents for the couples who are childless.
Sun Temple FestivalsChandrabhag Mela, Magh Saptami, Konark Dance Festival
Internet FacilitiesFree WIFI
PhotographyAllowed
Tour GuidesGuides for specific sculptures and for the whole complex is available.
Closed on public holidays No
Seasonal Feature 5 December for 1-week of Konark beach festival.

Konark Sun Temple Timetable –

Temple Opening Time10:00 AM
Temple Closing Time05:00 PM
Light and Sound Show07:00 PM to 8:00 PM
The Konark Archaeological Museum 09:00AM to 05:00 PM | Friday Closed

Konark Sun Temple Entry Fees

Citizens of India Rs. 40 per head
Visitors of SAARC (Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Maldives, and Afghanistan) Rs. 40 per head
Visitors of BIMSTEC Countries (Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar) Rs. 40 per head
Foreigner Rs. 600 per head
Children up to 15 years Free
Light and Sound ShowRs. 30 per head
The Konark Archaeological Museum Rs. 5 per head

Significance of Konark Sun Temple –

  • The Sun Temple complex consists of two main parts, a dance pavilion Natya mandapa, and an assembly hall Jaganmohan with Pidha Deula roof on the same platform as the remains of the shrine’s Rekha Deula tower.
  • The audience hall is the most well-preserved structure, and it dominates the temple complex. Its entrance has been sealed and the interior filled with sand to prevent it from collapsing.
  • A collection of sculptures from the temple is displayed at the Konark Sun Temple Museum, operated by the Archaeological Survey of India. 
  • The sprawling, world-class Konark Interpretation Center has five galleries with interactive exhibits and multimedia displays. The galleries are devoted to the history, culture, and architecture of Odisha, as well as sun temples across the world.
  • An interesting film about the Konark Sun Temple is also screened in the auditorium.
  • Every evening at the front of the temple complex, except when it’s raining, a sound and light show narrates the historical and religious significance of the Sun Temple. 
  • You’ll be provided with wireless headphones and can choose whether you want to hear the narration in English, Hindi, or Odia.
  • High-definition projectors, with state-of-the-art 3D projection mapping technology, are used to project images onto the monument.
  • If you’re interested in classical Odissi dance, don’t miss the Konark Festival, which is held at the temple during the first week of December each year.
  • The International Sand Art Festival takes place at Chandrabhaga beach, near the temple, at the same time as this festival.
  • There are another classical music and dance festival in Konark in late February.
  • The Nava Graha (Nine Planets) Temple.

Legends attached to Konark Sun Temple

The first legend is attached to the ages of Mahabharatha –

  • According to it, Samba, son of Lord Krishna has incurred a curse by Narad and became a leper.
  • Samba practiced austere penance for 12 years to please Lord Surya.
  • Once while bathing in the river Chandrabhag he found an image of Surya on lotus pedestal holding fully bloomed lotuses in both hands.
  • This image was consecrated in the temple and with the blessing of Sun God, he was cured of his leprosy.

Another famous legend that describes the construction of Konark Temple is that of Dharmpad a 12 yr old boy who sacrificed his life to save twelve thousand craftsmen. The legend goes as –

  • Dharmpad grew up with his mother in a small unknown village in Orissa in the 12th century. Right from his childhood, he was interested in architecture and crafts and being the son of a great temple architect, Bisu Maharana.
  • Dharmpad had access to all the manuscripts describing the details of temple construction. By the time he turned 12, he had mastered the art of Odiya temple architecture.
  • But he was eager to see his father who was away since his birth and therefore went out in search of his father. After a long and arduous journey, he reached a lonely beach where a magnificent but incomplete construction was going on.
  • He realized that this was the place where his father was building the Konark Sun temple. He rushed on to meet his father, wept and kissed him, but immediately knew that something was troubling his father.
  • King Narsingdeva had already announced that if Konark Sun Temple was not ready till the next morning all the craftsmen would be beheaded. Bisu maharana felt responsible for the upcoming deaths.
  • Although Konark Temple had already taken 12 years to be built, it was still incomplete. The final stone or the Kalash was yet to be installed at the topmost part of the Konark Temple. All the efforts of the crew were in vain.
  • Dharmpad who had studied temple architecture immediately perceived where the fault lay and knew how to surmount the problem.
  • By midnight, as the moon shone bright, the Kalash was finally put in the place and lives of the 12000 craftsmen were saved.
  • But Dharmpad had to sacrifice his life, for if the king got to know of the failure of the craftsmen and their defeat at the hands of a mere 12-year-old, he would surely kill them all.
  • He made his way up to Konark Temple top which has had completed and jumped into the sea as the first ray of light shone.

The History of Konark Sun Temple

  • Built-in 13th CE by king Narsimhadeva I of Eastern Ganga Dynasty, Konark Temples history is concealed in myths and legends that give us reasons for the construction and destruction of the temple.
  • It is believed that Narsimdeva wanted to build this temple to commemorate his victory over Tughan Khan, a governor of Bengal appointed by Nasiruddin Mahmud ( A Delhi sultan) in the year 1243 AD.
  • Dedicated to Surya the Sun God, it was made as his colossal cosmic chariot with 12 pairs of wheels pulled by seven horses but sadly in present only one of the horses remains.
  • The temple is believed to celebrate the glory of the Ganga Dynasty and the king’s triumph over Muslim rulers of Bengal. Its many sculptures depicting war scenes and the king’s activities support this.
  • 200 years later, during the reign of the Marathas in Odisha in the 18th century, a Maratha holy man found the temple abandoned and covered in overgrowth.
    The Marathas relocated the temple’s Aruna Stambha pillar with Aruna the charioteer seated atop it to the Lion’s Gate entrance of the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
  • British archeologists became interested in the temple in the 19th century, and they excavated and restored sections of it in the 20th century. 
  • However, it remained a mystery as to how the temple was built until the 1960s when an old palm-leaf manuscript was discovered. Its full set of 73 leaves comprehensively chronicled the temple’s planning and 12 years of construction from 1246 to 1258.
  • The temple was last documented as being intact in the 16th century by Abul Fazal in his account of Emperor Akbar’s administration, Ain-i-Akbari. 
  • The information is documented in a book, published in 1972, called New Light on Sun Temple of Konarka by Alice Boner, S. R. Sarma, and R. P. Das.

The Unique Architecture of Konark Sun Temple

The brilliance of Konark Sun Temple lies in its architecture, ornamental decoration, and sculptural elements. These are concentrated on the exterior wall. The interior is generally plain and featureless.

  • Konark Temple is the pride of the Orissan style of architecture. It is in the shape of the gigantic chariot in which the Sun God rides across heaven.
  • The chariot has twelve pairs of wheels, each about 10 ft in diameter with a set of spokes elaborately carved.
  • Seven prancing horses are shown on either side of the steps to reach the entrance of Konark Temple.
  • The horses are conceived in a way to give the appearance of the Sun God himself driving the chariot while being in the garbgrih the sanctum sanctorum.
  • The wheels of Konark Temple are sundials. The shadows of the spokes can be used to calculate the time of the day and night accurately.
  • The alignment of the Konark Temple is east-west. It consists of sanctum sanctorum (Garba Graha).The tower of which is called Rekha -Deul( curvilinear Shikhar or tower) rising to a height of 229ft. This tower was struck by lightning, hence, it is now in dilapidated condition.
  • In front of sanctum sanctorum is Jagmohan (frontal porch, maha mandap) with the pyramidal roof (Pidha-Deul). The height of Pidha-Deul is 128ft.
  • The top of Rekha-Deul and Pidha-Deul were crowned by Amalek and Stupi (a ribbed disc-shaped stone). Located in front of Jagmohan is the Natyamandap. Bhog Mandap detached from the main complex has been aligned with the main temple.
  • Konark Temple proper stands on huge platforms depicting richly embellished stone chariot.
  • Konark Temple was originally built of Khondalite stone since it was a locally available pink colored stone with yellow streaks.
  • Another unique feature of Konark Temple is the use of iron plates in between every two stones. Massive iron beams have beams used to construct higher floors of Konark Temple.
  • A 52-ton magnet was used to create the peak of the main temple. It is said that the entire structure has tolerated the harsh conditions, especially of the sea because of this magnet.
  • It is believed that due to the attraction of the magnet the main idol of the temple remained suspended in the air. The magnet and idol do not exist anymore. There are various theories about the removal of the magnet and about the missing idol.
  • The architecture of Konark Temple was such that the early rays of morning sun illuminated the image of Sun god in the sanctum sanctorum.
  • The entrance of Konark Temple is guarded by two lions crushing elephants, each elephant, in turn, lies on top of a human body.
  • The lion symbolizes pride and elephants symbolize wealth. Symbolically this represents that the human being is crushed by pride and wealth.
  • Thousands of images adorn the temple’s exterior wall. These images include deities, celestial figures, and human musicians, dancers and lovers.
  • The base of Konark Temple wall and the roof also depicts human, divine and semi-divine figures, often in sensuous poses and postures.
  • There are also images of animals, birds, foliage, warriors on horseback as well as geometrical patterns depicted in relief and also in image-in-the-round.

Archaeological Value and Preservation of Konark Sun Temple –

  • The Sun Temple, Konark is protected under the National Framework of India by the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act (1958) and its Rules (1959).
  • The Archeological Survey of India continued the works after it took over responsibility for the temple in 1932.
  • The temple was subsequently listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Another round of extensive restoration works commenced in 2012 and is ongoing.
  • Other relevant protective legislation includes the Forest Act, Konârak Development Act and the notified the Council Area Act. 
  • Under the AMASR Act, a zone 100 meters outside the property and a further zone 200 meters outside the property constitute, respectively, prohibited and regulated zones for development or other similar activity that may have adverse effects on the Outstanding Universal Value of the property. 
  • All conservation programs are undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India through its national, regional and local representatives.
  • There are five management-related plans: safety, environment, master planning, environmental development, and tourism.
  • World Heritage funding was received to carry out an assessment of structural stability.

Fall of the Konark Sun Temple

There are various theories and speculations that give reasons for the fall of this magnificent monument.

  • Some believe that due to the early death of King Narasimhadeva, the builder of the Konark Temple, the construction was left half done. As a result, it remained incomplete and collapsed in the due course of time.
  • Others opine that Konark Temple had lost its sanctity because Dharmpad, son of the chief architect, committed suicide just after placing the crowing stone on the top of the temple tower.
  • Earthquake and thunderstruck may also be the reason for the fall of this magnificent structure.
  • Another theory relates to the removal of load stone. It is believed that due to the magnetic effects of the magnet in the temple the compass of the ships was showing deflected directions to the vessels passing through the Konark sea.
  • This resulted in heavy damage to the ships. So to make the shipping safe the Muslim voyagers removed the loadstone from Konark Temple. This stone worked as the central stone keeping all other stones of the temple wall in balance. Subsequent to the displacement of the load-stone, the structure weakened and the temple walls fell down in due course of time.
  • Invasion by Kalapahad, a Muslim ruler in 1508 is also given as the reason for the destruction of Konark temple. Kalapahad managed to displace Dadhinauti (arch stone) and hence the temple collapsed.

Festivals Celebrated in Konark Sun Temple

Chandrabhag Mela: celebrated on Magh Saptami in February is the most popular festival of Konark temple.

  • This festival celebrates the Birth of Sun God.
  • A stone thrown from Konark beach lies in a sacred magical pond where Samba was cured of leprosy. For this reason, every year during the full moon phase of Magha a big religious festival is celebrated that is popularly known as Chandrabhaga Mela or Magha Saptami Mela.
  • Though Konark Temple is in ruins, thousands of people flock on this day to see the rising sun and pay their venerations to the Sun God.
  • During this day thousands of pilgrims join in the pool and take a holy dip in medicinal water as mentioned in Puranas and watch the sunrise over the sea.
  • The event is followed by the worship of Navagraha.

Konark Dance Festival: The festival of Indian classical dance – The Konark dance festival is held between 1st -5th December every year.

  • This festival has helped revive the unique dance tradition of Orissa.
  • The sole aim is to bring many artists into its cultural community and creating international cultural brotherhood.
  • Reputed artists participate and perform Odissi, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniattam and other classical, folk & tribal dances/music of our country on the enchanting stage of the Natyashala in the monumental Sun Temple, Konark.
  • When the sun sets in the horizon and the stars appear in the sky, the open-air-auditorium reverberates with the beats of Raga and Tala to fill the air. 

How to reach Konark Sun Temple by Road, Rail, Air

Konark Temple is situated 35 km away from Puri and 64 km from Bhuvaneshwar and can be reached by bus or taxi.

  1. By Rail: The nearest railhead is Puri, 31 km away. There are two trains Puri express and Purushottam express that can take you to Konark.
  2. By Air: Bhubaneswar Airport or Biju Patnaik International Airport is 65 km and around an hour-long drive from the Konark Sun Temple. 
  3. By Bus: Konark is well-connected by Odisha State Public Transport buses plying on National and State highways linking it to Puri, Bhuvaneswar and other cities. Comfortable Volvo buses can be boarded from Puri as well as from Bhuvaneshvar.

Where to Stay near Konark Sun Temple

A wide range of hotels is available in and around Konark for all pockets.

Lotus Resort Konark,
Rating * * *
Lotus Eco Village
Konark-752111

Nature Camp Konark Retreat
Rating * *
Village Khatakata Patan,
Marine Drive Road,
Konark-752111

Surya Inn
Rating *
Near Canara Bank
Konark

Sun Temple Hotel
Near Bus Stand
Konark

Yatri Niwas
SH 13 at Post Konark
Konark

Marwadi Hotel and Lodge
Ring Road
Near Bus Stand
Konark

Where to Eat near Konark Sun Temple

Restaurants catering to different tastes are found in Konark’s main market area. Local Dhabas and small restaurants near the beach serve vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. Marwari Bhojnalayas are there for non-vegetarians. Traveler lodges also have in-house restaurants. Visit Panthnivas Yatrinivas run by Govt. of Orissa.

  1. Geetanjali Restaurant
  2. Kamat Restaurant
  3. Santoshi Restaurant

Nearby Temples to Konark Sun Temple

  1. Mayadevi Temple: Discovered in 1909 during the excavations, it lies to the west of the Sun temple. An important temple in the complex this is dedicated to Mayadevi – the wife of Surya, the temple is older than the Sun temple built around the 11th century.
  2. Ramachandi Temple: This temple is located on the banks of the Kusabhadra River, about 5 km from Konark. While some say that the presiding deity is Goddess Ramachandi. The graceful goddess is seated on a lotus and among the Sakti Pithas of Puri.
  3. Vishnu Temple: A broken brick temple said to be the temple of Lord Vishnu, is located behind the Ramachandi temple. The pillar in front of this temple is said to be the seat of Garuda, the cosmic charioteer of Lord Vishnu. Figures of Goddess Lakshmi and Saraswati are found on the temple walls.
  4. Konark Matha: This Math (monastery) is situated to the south of the Sun temple. Nirakar Brahma (or void) is worshipped here. It is called “Samba Ashram” by the local people. Dhuni Kund (fireplace) is where the fire has been reserved continuously since the beginning of the Matha.
  5. Kuruma Temple: A relatively unknown Buddhist site, Kuruma is located 8 kilometers from the famous Sun Temple. Kuruma is one of the major archaeological excavation sites in Orrisa and is mentioned in several Buddhist texts from Asoka and Ceylon and also appears in the writings of the Chinese traveler Hieun Tsang. The origin of the site is dated to be between 8th-9th century AD and is a must-visit for everyone who likes to explore the history of India.
  6. Astanga (a Picnic spot): Located at a distance of 19 kilometers from Konark, and is a famous picnic spot and fishing village near Konark. The best time to visit the place is during the sunset when one can experience the panoramic and multi-hued horizon. The place is great for photographers and is a major center for fishing and salt production in Konark.

Frequently Asked Questions on Konark Sun Temple

How to reach Konark Sun Temple?

Konark is a famous tourist destination owing to the Sun Temple and thus it is well-connected to Puri and Bhubaneswar by trains, buses, and taxis. 

Where is Konark Sun Temple situated?

Konark Sun Temple is situated in Konark, a town in the district of Puri in Odisha. It is approximately 60 km from the capital Bhubaneswar and 35 km from Puri.

Are online tickets available for Konark Sun Temple?

Yes, online tickets are available through various sites and portals to get an advance booking before you visit Konark Sun Temple.

What more can be done while visiting Konark Sun Temple?

There are several interesting things to do in Konark such as visiting Chandrabhaga Beach, offering prayers at Varahi Devi Temple and watching Konark Natya Mandap.

Why is the Konark Sun Temple famous for?

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Konark Sun Temple is famous for its unique architecture. Its geometrical patterns and carved wheels used to serve as sundials.

What are the climate conditions in Konark Sun Temple?

The summer months in Konark from March to May experience high humidity and maximum temperatures touch almost 40° C.
Winters in Konark are far more pleasant, with temperatures falling to 15° C in December and January. 

What is the best season to visit Konark Sun Temple?

The best season to visit is between October to February when the climate is mild.

What are the rituals practiced in Konark Sun Temple?

The rituals practiced in Konark Sun Temple is of the basic Hindu Rites with Pradakshina done by the devotees.

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