History:

Harachandi Temple at Puri is one of the oldest shrines in the country. It is a temple dedicated to goddess Harachandi, an incarnation of Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be built in 8th century, when the Jagannath Temple was constructed in Puri. This temple was built much behind the main Jagannath Temple complex. It is one of the most sacred spots of religious activities in Puri. The shrine is dedicated to the goddess of prosperity and celebration. In the temple, devotees offer prayers and make offerings to the goddess. Located at the side of Jagannath Temple complex, the temple is surrounded by immense natural beauty. The shrine is decorated with interesting carvings and intricate interior designs. The temple is a major tourist destination and it is visited by pilgrims from all across the world. Inside the temple, one can also witness beautiful sculptures and enchanting music and performances during festivals. The annual Rasalila festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm here. Thousands of devotees land in Puri to offer their prayers and take part in the festivities. It is one of the best temple in Odisha which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Harachandi Temple is an ancient temple in the Puri district of Odisha, India. 2. It is located on the banks of river Chilka and is dedicated to the Goddess Harachandi, known for protecting fishermen and boatmen. 3. The temple enshrines the idol of Harachandi, the presiding deity of Odisha’s fishing villages. 4. Built in the 11th century, this temple is one of the most popular temples in the region. 5. The temple complex also includes shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Kali and Lord Jagannath. 6. Alongside these deities, there are several exciting festivals celebrated around the temple complex, including the oft-celebrated Rama Navami, Makar Sankranti, Durga Puja and Janmashtami. 7. Devotional songs and classical dances are also performed to honor the presiding deity. 8. The temple is also known for its association with Chilika lake, which is the largest coastal lake in India. 9. The temple is also believed to be built on the site of a grand palace built by the King of Kalinga and his followers during his ruler ship. Here are some facts about the Odisha temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Odisha

Worship Method:

The worship method of the Harachandi Temple of Puri is one that is rooted in ancient rituals and traditions of Hinduism. The temple known as the Dwarpithasthana in Puri is one of the most important spiritual sites in India and is centrally located in the Jagannath Temple Complex. The Harachandi Temple is dedicated to the deity lord Vishnu who is the protector of the Universe. The ritual worship at the temple follows the Vaishnavite traditions with the chanting of the Vishnu Sahasranamam and Bhagavad Gita. The morning worship begins with the ringing of bells, followed by the chanting of the Bhagavata and Vishnu Gayatri mantras.After, the faithful followers offer prayers with offerings of flowers, vermillion, and fruits. Milk and honey are also offered as tributes to the lord. The ritual concludes with the aarti, a traditional puja, and finally the grand temple procession around the complex. At the temple, devotees can also perform puja rituals such as Abhishekam (bathing of the idol) and Atyabhishekam (an elaborate worship ceremony involving pouring of 108 different kinds of offerings). The priests also chant the Vishnu-Sahasranamam mantra and then take the devotee’s hands in prayer. The Harachandi temple has an active cultural life and features regular events such as Rath Yatra – the grand procession of Lord Jagannath on a chariot. Visitors are also invited to observe the ancient customs and lifestyle of the temple culture. The temple is also a major pilgrimage destination with several hundred thousand devotees visiting the temple every year to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. This most visited temple in Odisha

Opening Timing:

The Harachandi Temple in Puri, Odisha is open for visitors from 5am to 9pm daily. top temples in Odisha

How to reach:

The best way to reach Harachandi Temple in Puri, Odisha is by road. The temple is located about 6 kilometres away from the Puri railway station and 8 kilometres away from the Puri bus stand. You can hire a private cab or auto-rickshaw to reach the temple. Another easy way to get to the temple is to take a bus from any of the local bus stands in and around Puri. famous temples in Odisha