Overview
Alarnath Temple is one of the most revered and ancient temples located in Brahmagiri, Odisha. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Alarnath or Alarnatha. It is especially significant for devotees of Lord Jagannath, as this temple serves as a spiritual retreat during the Anavasara period when Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra are believed to fall ill after the grand Snana Yatra festival and are unavailable for public worship at the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
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Known for its spiritual ambiance, the temple also attracts visitors due to its unique customs and rituals. The serene surroundings, coupled with the rich history of the temple, make Alarnath Temple a peaceful and deeply sacred site for pilgrims and tourists alike. Chilika Lake: Famous Paradise for Nature Lovers and Birdwatchers
Location of Alarnath Temple
Alarnath Temple is situated in Brahmagiri, a small town in the Puri district of Odisha, India. It is located about 25 kilometers southwest of the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri.
- Address: Alarnath Temple, Brahmagiri, Puri District, Odisha, India.
Time/Entry Fees of Alarnath Temple
- Timings: The temple is open to devotees and visitors from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day. Special rituals and offerings are performed during the morning and evening Aarti (prayers).
- Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit Alarnath Temple. Like most Hindu temples, it is open to all, and visitors are welcome to offer donations or dakshina (offerings) as per their desire.
How to Reach Alarnath Temple
By Air
The nearest airport to Alarnath Temple is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, located approximately 75 kilometers from the temple. The airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.
From the airport, one can hire a taxi or use app-based cab services to reach Brahmagiri. The drive from Bhubaneswar to Alarnath Temple takes around 2 hours via the Puri-Brahmagiri Road.
By Rail
The nearest railway station to Alarnath Temple is Puri Railway Station, which is about 25 kilometers away. Puri is a major pilgrimage hub and is connected to many parts of India through regular train services.
From Puri Railway Station, visitors can hire taxis, auto-rickshaws, or take buses to reach the temple. The drive from Puri to Alarnath Temple typically takes around 45 minutes.
By Road
Alarnath Temple is well-connected by road to major cities in Odisha. The temple is located on the Puri-Brahmagiri Road, which is accessible by buses, private cars, and taxis.
- From Puri: Visitors can take state transport buses, taxis, or private vehicles from Puri, which is just 25 kilometers away.
- From Bhubaneswar: It is about 75 kilometers from Bhubaneswar, and the journey by road takes around 2 hours. The roads are well-maintained and scenic, making it a pleasant drive.
Things to Do at Alarnath Temple
- Offer Prayers to Lord Alarnath: The main deity, Lord Vishnu, is worshipped here as Alarnath. Devotees can offer flowers, coconuts, and other offerings during the daily pujas (rituals) held at the temple. The atmosphere is spiritually charged, especially during the morning and evening Aarti.
- Experience the Anavasara Ritual: During the Anavasara period (when the deities of the Jagannath Temple are believed to be unwell and recuperating), Lord Jagannath devotees throng to Alarnath Temple to offer their prayers, as it is believed that Lord Jagannath manifests as Lord Alarnath during this time.
- Witness the Special Pana Bhoga: One of the unique aspects of Alarnath Temple is the special offering known as Pana Bhoga, which is prepared and served to the deity. The offering, made of milk, sugar, and rice, is distributed as Prasad (holy offering) to devotees.
- Explore the Temple Architecture: Alarnath Temple reflects traditional Kalinga architectural style, with intricate carvings and ancient stonework that narrates the rich history and artistic heritage of Odisha. Visitors can admire the temple’s sculptures, the large Garuda Stambha (a pillar dedicated to the mount of Lord Vishnu), and the open courtyard that adds to the peaceful ambiance.
- Meditate in the Tranquil Surroundings: The temple’s serene atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for meditation and quiet reflection. The peaceful environment around the temple allows visitors to connect spiritually with the divine.
- Attend Special Festivals: Alarnath Temple is a vibrant site during festivals such as Rath Yatra, Makar Sankranti, and the Anavasara period. During these times, the temple comes alive with grand rituals, traditional music, and an influx of devotees.
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- Jagannath Temple, Puri: Located about 25 kilometers from Alarnath Temple, the world-famous Jagannath Temple is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Odisha. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, it is one of the four major pilgrimage sites (Char Dham) in Hinduism.
- Chilika Lake: Situated around 40 kilometers from Alarnath Temple, Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lagoon in India and is a hotspot for birdwatching, boating, and exploring the island of Kalijai.
- Raghurajpur Heritage Village: Located 35 kilometers from the temple, Raghurajpur is a traditional craft village known for its Pattachitra paintings. Visitors can explore the village to see local artisans creating stunning artwork.
- Konark Sun Temple: About 65 kilometers away, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Konark is famous for its Sun Temple, a 13th-century architectural marvel dedicated to the Sun God.
- Pipili Applique Village: Situated around 50 kilometers from Alarnath, Pipili is known for its colorful appliqué work. Visitors can explore the local markets and pick up beautiful handicrafts and textiles.
Significance/History of Alarnath Temple
The history of Alarnath Temple dates back several centuries, with the temple being closely linked to the worship of Lord Jagannath. The temple gained significant prominence due to the belief that during the Anavasara period, when the deities of the Jagannath Temple fall ill, devotees can worship Lord Alarnath as an incarnation of Lord Jagannath.
The temple is steeped in legend and myth. It is said that once, a devotee of Lord Jagannath named Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu visited the temple during the Anavasara period. Overwhelmed with devotion, he offered prayers and rolled on the ground in ecstasy. As a result, the stone on which he rolled left an impression, which is still visible to this day. This incident further elevated the spiritual importance of the temple.
The Pana Bhoga offering is another significant aspect of the temple’s rituals. It is believed that the Pana Bhoga offering, made during the Anavasara period, is not only a ritualistic offering but also a way to seek blessings for good health and well-being.
FAQs
- What are the timings of Alarnath Temple?
- The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
- Is there any entry fee for the temple?
- No, there is no entry fee to visit the temple. However, donations are welcome.
- What is the significance of the Anavasara period?
- The Anavasara period occurs after the Snana Yatra festival when the deities of the Jagannath Temple are believed to fall ill. During this time, devotees visit Alarnath Temple to worship Lord Jagannath in the form of Lord Alarnath.
- How far is Alarnath Temple from Puri?
- Alarnath Temple is about 25 kilometers from Puri, which can be reached in around 45 minutes by road.
- Are there any specific offerings at the temple?
- Yes, the special Pana Bhoga offering made of milk, sugar, and rice is unique to the temple, especially during the Anavasara period.
- Is photography allowed inside the temple?
- Photography may be restricted inside the temple premises, and visitors are advised to seek permission from temple authorities.
- What are the nearby attractions to visit along with Alarnath Temple?
- Visitors can explore nearby attractions like the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Chilika Lake, Raghurajpur Heritage Village, and Konark Sun Temple.
- Is there any accommodation near the temple?
- There are several guesthouses and hotels available in Puri, which is about 25 kilometers from Alarnath Temple. Visitors can stay in Puri and easily visit the temple during the day.
Conclusion
Alarnath Temple, with its deep-rooted spiritual significance and serene surroundings, is a must-visit destination for devotees and travelers seeking peace and divine blessings. Its proximity to Puri makes it an integral part of the Jagannath pilgrimage, especially during the Anavasara period. With its unique rituals, rich history, and tranquil
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