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Odisha

Alarnatha Temple

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map

January

13.8 - 30.0 °C

February

16.8 - 31.9 °C

March

21.1 - 33.8 °C

April

22.5 - 34.3 °C

May

22.5 - 35.5 °C

June

23.7 - 35.2 °C

July

24.0 - 34.6 °C

August

24.2 - 34.5 °C

September

24.1 - 34.8 °C

October

21.9 - 34.5 °C

November

17.6 - 32.4 °C

December

14.7 - 30.4 °C

Major Airports :

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), Bhubaneshwar

Nearest Railway Station :

Balugaon Railway Station (BALU)

Major Airports :

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), Bhubaneshwar

A divine whisper beyond the waves

About a 25-kilometre drive from Puri, in the quaint town of Brahmagiri, lies a treasure that whispers tales of ancient devotion. Welcome to the Alarnatha Temple, a sacred sanctuary that has stood quietly for centuries. Lord Vishnu resides in his form as Alarnatha, watching over his devotees with benevolent grace. But Alarnatha is more than just another temple. This hallowed ground is where myth and history intertwine, its very stones echoing with the footsteps of Lord Brahma who is believed to visit the temple for the worship of Lord Vishnu in Satya Yug. Even today, Alarnatha Temple is a beacon of spiritual solace, offering comfort and peace to pilgrims from near and far. 

Beyond its spiritual significance, Alarnatha's charm lies in its serene ambience, a stark contrast to the bustling energy of Puri's beaches. Whether you're a devoted pilgrim or a curious traveller, Alarnatha Temple offers a glimpse into the deep roots of Odishan spirituality, inviting you to pause and connect with something greater than yourself in this ancient abode of the divine.

A sacred site steeped in history and legends

Step into a realm where time seems to stand still at the Alarnath Temple, a spiritual gem believed to predate the iconic Jagannath Temple by two centuries. Imagine walking in the footsteps of royalty, as the rulers of Alwar in Rajasthan first established this sacred sanctuary. But the temple's allure doesn't stop at its royal origins.

Picture the scene: the great saint Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, yearning for a glimpse of his beloved Lord Jagannath during the mysterious Anavasara (14 to 15 days, during which the deities of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are confined to a secret chamber) period. Legend has it that the Lord himself whispered to Chaitanya, guiding him to this very spot in Brahmagiri. Today, this ancient tradition lives on, as thousands of devotees flock to Alarnath when Lord Jagannath retreats from view. It's as if the temple opens its arms wide, offering solace to those who can't bear to be parted from their Lord.

Spiritual significance

The Alarnatha Temple holds profound spiritual significance for devotees, who believe that worshipping Lord Vishnu as Alarnatha bestows divine blessings, protection, and spiritual fulfilment. The deity is revered as the preserver of the universe, embodying the qualities of compassion, righteousness, and eternal grace. Devotees throng to the temple throughout the year, offering prayers, performing rituals, and seeking the divine presence of the deity in their lives.

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Timings

Opening time - 06:00 AM

Closing time - 09:30 PM

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Festivals and celebrations

The Alarnatha Temple is renowned for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which attract devotees and tourists from across the country. The annual Snana Yatra or bathing festival, is one of the most auspicious occasions, during which the deity of Lord Vishnu is bathed with sanctified water amidst chanting of Vedic hymns and devotional songs. Other festivals celebrated with great fervour at the temple include Janmashtami, Rama Navami and Kartik Purnima, each marked by elaborate rituals, processions and cultural performances.

Devotional offerings and seva

Devotees visiting the Alarnatha Temple offer various forms of worship and devotional offerings to seek the blessings of the deity. Traditional offerings such as flowers, fruits, sweets, and incense are presented to the deity as expressions of love and reverence. The temple also conducts daily seva (service) activities, including distribution of prasad (sanctified food), free meals for devotees, and charitable initiatives for the welfare of the community.

Beyond Alarnatha temple, experience the natural beauty of Chilika Lake, the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia. Take a boat ride to explore its picturesque islands, spot migratory birds at the bird sanctuary, and enjoy fresh seafood delicacies at nearby villages.