Aranya Devi Temple
The Legend of Aranya Devi: The Aranya Devi Temple is one of the most sacred sites in Bhojpur, dedicated to Goddess Aranya, the deity of the forest. Historically, the name of the city Arrah is derived from the word Aranya, signifying that the region was once a dense woodland where sages meditated. Le gend has it that the temple was established during the Mahabharata era by the Pandavas, specifically Yudhishthira, who installed the idol following a divine dream. Another popular tale involves King Mayurdhwaj, who was tested by Lord Krishna and Arjuna; the Goddess appeared to bless the king for his unwavering devotion and sacrifice. Today, the temple stands as a symbol of spiritual power and is recognized as a Siddh Pitha among the 108 Shakti Pithas. Devotees believe that the Goddess fulfills every wish, and thousands flock here to offer prayers, especially during the Navratri festival. The atmosphere is filled with the scent of incense and the sound of bells, creating a serene environment for meditation and worship. Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations, evolving from a small ancient shrine to a modern multi-storeyed complex. It remains the spiritual heart of Arrah, providing a bridge between the city's ancient mythological roots and its modern urban life. Visitors often find solace in the sanctum sanctorum, where the black stone idols are beautifully adorned with traditional attire and jewelry. The temple's significance is not just religious but also cultural, as it represents the identity of the local Bhojpuri people. Visiting this temple offers a deep insight into the rich tapestry of Indian mythology and the enduring faith of the local community.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Religious, Historical, Shakti PithaEntry Fees:
General Entry: Access to the Aranya Devi Temple is completely Free for all visitors, regardless of their nationality or religion. The temple management encourages donations, but there is no mandatory ticket required to enter the sanctum or the complex.
Read MoreGeneral Entry: Access to the Aranya Devi Temple is completely Free for all visitors, regardless of their nationality or religion. The temple management encourages donations, but there is no mandatory ticket required to enter the sanctum or the complex.
Special Darshan Fees: During major festivals like Navratri, there might be a separate line for 'VIP' or fast-track 'Darshan'. This typically costs around INR 100 to 200, and the proceeds go toward the temple's maintenance and large-scale feeding programs (Bhandara).Timing:
Regular Timings: The temple is open every day from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and then from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The afternoon closure allows the Goddess to 'rest', a common tradition in Hindu temples.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is du...Regular Timings: The temple is open every day from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and then from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The afternoon closure allows the Goddess to 'rest', a common tradition in Hindu temples.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is during the morning 'Aarti' at 7:00 AM when the temperature is cool and the spiritual energy is at its peak. Alternatively, the evening visit at 7:30 PM offers a beautiful view of the temple's lighting and a more vibrant crowd.Special Events:
Navratri Festival: The nine nights of Navratri are the most significant events at the temple. The entire building is draped in lights, and special 'Chunri' offerings are made. It is a time of intense devotion, with 24-hour chanting and large crowds gathering for the midnig...Navratri Festival: The nine nights of Navratri are the most significant events at the temple. The entire building is draped in lights, and special 'Chunri' offerings are made. It is a time of intense devotion, with 24-hour chanting and large crowds gathering for the midnight 'Aarti'.
Ram Navami: Celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, this event includes a grand procession that often starts or ends near the temple. The connection to the Ramayana makes this day particularly special for the local residents of Arrah.Best Photo Spots:
The Frontal Shikhara Shot: Capture the grand view of the temple from the main entrance road. Use a wide-angle lens to include the bustling street life of Arrah in the foreground, highlighting the temple's role as the city's spiritual anchor.
Th...The Frontal Shikhara Shot: Capture the grand view of the temple from the main entrance road. Use a wide-angle lens to include the bustling street life of Arrah in the foreground, highlighting the temple's role as the city's spiritual anchor.
The Intricate Black Stone Idols: With permission from the priest, take a close-up shot of the Goddess's face. The contrast between the black stone and the bright yellow silk sarees, adorned with silver crowns, makes for a stunning and culturally rich portrait.
Night Illumination during Navratri: During festivals, the temple is bathed in colorful LED lights. A long-exposure shot from across the street captures the vibrant energy and the glowing tower, creating a sense of celebration and divine radiance.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Participate in the Morning Aarti: Start your visit early at 6 AM to witness the 'Mangala Aarti'. The rhythmic chanting and the lighting of the large lamps create a powerful atmosphere that sets a spiritual tone for your day.
Explore the Mahabharata Legends: Spend time reading the plaques or talking to the temple priests about the history of the Pandavas at this site. Understanding the connection between the idols and the epic Mahabharata adds depth to your visit.
Offer Traditional Bhog: Purchase 'Prasad' such as 'Batasha' or 'Ladoo' from the local shops outside and offer it to the Goddess. It is a traditional practice to share a portion of this blessed food with the needy sitting near the temple gates.
Visit the Shahi Masjid Nearby: Just a short walk from the ...
Information
-
Why Famous:
Mythological Significance: The temple is famous for its association with the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama and Lakshmana visited this site with Sage Vishwamitra before heading to Janakpur for the 'Dhanush Yagna', adding a layer of epic history ...Mythological Significance: The temple is famous for its association with the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama and Lakshmana visited this site with Sage Vishwamitra before heading to Janakpur for the 'Dhanush Yagna', adding a layer of epic history to the shrine.
Presiding Deity of Arrah: As the city's namesake, the temple is the cultural cornerstone of Arrah. Residents consider the Goddess their guardian, and no major auspicious event in the city is considered complete without seeking her blessings.
Miraculous Beliefs: The temple is renowned for the belief that the Goddess fulfills the wishes of the childless. Many stories circulate of couples being blessed with children after performing rituals here, making it a hub of hope for many devotees from across Bihar. -
Architecture:
Traditional Stone and Modern Fusion: The architecture of Aranya Devi Temple is a unique blend of ancient stone foundations and modern multi-storeyed concrete structures. The temple is built on an elevated platform of stone boulders, which are believed to be part of the orig...Traditional Stone and Modern Fusion: The architecture of Aranya Devi Temple is a unique blend of ancient stone foundations and modern multi-storeyed concrete structures. The temple is built on an elevated platform of stone boulders, which are believed to be part of the original ancient site.
Sanctum and Spires: The sanctum sanctorum houses two black touchstone idols of the Goddess, standing at approximately 10 feet in height. The exterior features a traditional Shikhara-style dome that faces east, decorated with intricate marble and mosaic work.
Spatial Dimensions: The temple complex covers an area of roughly 5000 square feet, with open balconies on the North and West sides. The interior walls are lined with marble, featuring niches for other deities like Radha-Krishna and Ram-Sita. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (PAT) in Patna, located about 55 KM away. From the airport, you can hire a private taxi or take a pre-paid cab directly to Arrah, which takes approximately 2 hours depending on traffic. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Shahi Masjid (0. 2 KM), 2. Ara House (1. 5 KM), 3. Maharaja College (2 KM), 4. Bisram Jain Temple (2 KM), 5. Gangi River (3 KM), 6. Ramna Maidan (1 KM), 7. Maulabagh Masjid (2. 5 KM), 8. Jagdishpur Fort (35 KM), 9. Koilwar Bridge (15 KM), 10. Bakhorapur Temple (20 KM).
Tourism Tips
-
Health & Safety: The temple can get very crowded during Navratri. Keep your belongings secure and stay hydrated. There are local clinics in Arrah, but it's best to carry basic medicines. Always drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
Pac...
Reviews
Information about New and Updated Locations(521+) of Bihar Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Kesariya StupaKumhrar ParkRohtasgarh FortRuins of VikramshilaValmiki Tiger ReserveBio-Diversity ParkFanishwar Nath Renu JungleForbesganj Mela GroundJogbaniJokihat MosqueMaata Aasawar MandirRampur Over BridgeRaniganj Vriksh VatikaShiva MandirSultan PhokherBaba Bateshwarnath TempleBaithakji Hajipur Baraila Lake More PlacesNote:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Aranya Devi Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Belaur Surya Mandir
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Bhavani Mandir
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Bisram Jain Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Chaturvuj Narayan Mandir
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Gayatri Mandir
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jagdamba Mandir
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jain Sidhant Bhawan
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Karbala
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Koilwar Bridge
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities