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Odisha

Chaurasi

Jagannath temple at Puri, Odisha, India is one of the four pilgrimage sites in Hindu religion
chaurasi-puri-odisha-1-attr-hero
Jagannath temple at Puri, Odisha, India is one of the four pilgrimage sites in Hindu religion
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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

Where ancient mysticism meets rural charm

If you take a short road trip from the bustling pilgrimage centre of Puri, you will come across a hidden gem that beckons the intrepid traveller. Welcome to the quaint village of Chaurasi. This unassuming hamlet, steeped in ancient mysticism and rural tranquillity, offers a fascinating counterpoint to the grandeur of Puri.

At the heart of Chaurasi stands the enigmatic Varahi Temple, a 9th-century shrine that whispers secrets of a bygone era. Here, the Mother Goddess Varahi, depicted with the intriguing visage of a boar, reigns supreme. Legend has it that she cradles a fish in one hand and a cup in the other, embodying a unique blend of symbolism rarely seen in Hindu iconography. The air around the temple thrums with the energy of centuries-old tantric rituals, still practiced with fervour by local devotees.

As you wander through Chaurasi's narrow lanes, you'll encounter the serene Laxminarayan Temple and the captivating deity of Nilamadhab, each adding layers to the village's rich spiritual tapestry. For those seeking to venture off the beaten path and delve into Odisha's lesser-known treasures, Chaurasi offers a compelling blend of archaeological intrigue, living traditions, and the unhurried pace of rural Indian life.

A treasure trove of ancient art and mysticism

In the heart of Chaurasi, the Varahi Temple stands as a mesmerising testament to the artistic and spiritual legacy of the Prachi Valley. This 10th-century marvel, crafted during the Somavamsi rule, is a sanctuary of architectural splendour and mystical allure. As you approach the east-facing shrine, built of sandstone, you're immediately struck by its unique Pancharatha design, a style that sets it apart in the annals of Odishan temple architecture. The temple's rectangular sanctum, crowned by a semi-cylindrical ridge in the evolving Kharkhara style, creates an imposing silhouette against the rural skyline.

At the heart of this artistic wonderland sits the enigmatic Goddess Varahi herself. Known locally as Matsya Varahi, she presents a fascinating iconography - a pot-bellied deity with a boar's face, holding a fish in one hand and a bowl in the other, her third eye etched into her forehead. This unusual representation, combined with the daily offering of fish and the practice of tantric rituals, shrouds the temple in an air of mystery and spiritual potency.

The Varahi Temple offers more than just visual splendour, it's a portal to a time when art, faith and daily life were intricately interwoven. As you explore its latticed windows, admire the beautiful statue of Lord Surya in its niche and absorb the energy of centuries of devotion, you'll find yourself transported to an era of unparalleled artistic achievement and spiritual depth. A visit to this hidden gem is not just a journey through history, but an opportunity to connect with the living traditions that continue to breathe life into these ancient stones.

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Discover other hidden treasures around

While the Varahi Temple in Chaurasi is undoubtedly a star attraction, the surrounding Prachi Valley offers a wealth of lesser-known wonders waiting to be discovered. Just a short journey from Chaurasi lies the ancient Bhaskaresvara Temple in Bhapur, its weathered stones whispering tales of the 7th century. For nature enthusiasts, the Ansupa Lake provides a serene escape, its placid waters teeming with diverse birdlife and surrounded by greenery. If you seek a unique cultural experience, the artisan village of Raghurajpur, famous for its Pattachitra paintings and palm leaf engravings, showcases the vibrant artistic heritage of Odisha.