Dashaswamedha Ghata
History and Origin: This ghat is profoundly significant, linked to King Jajati Keshari of the Somavanshi dynasty who, in the 11th century CE, is believed to have performed the grand Dashashwamedha Yagna (a ritual involving the sacrifice of ten horses) here to establish his supremacy and legitimize h is rule, giving the place its historical name. Religious Importance: It stands on the banks of the sacred River Baitarani, often called the 'Ganga of Odisha', and is considered a holy place for the Hindus. It is a major site for ancestral rites (Pindadaan), earning it the nickname of 'Nabhi Gaya' in some texts. The Ghat Complex: The complex is not just the steps leading to the river but also houses a cluster of smaller, ancient temples dedicated to various deities like Saptamatruka, Sidha Vinayak, Jagannath, Savitri, Maa Laxmi, and Shiva. This concentration of shrines makes it a powerful spiritual nexus. Modern Day Relevance: Despite its ancient roots, it remains a bustling center of religious activity and a key cultural landmark of Jajpur, constantly drawing devotees for daily prayers and rituals.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 hoursPlace Type:
Pilgrimage Site, Historical Landmark, RiverfrontEntry Fees:
No Direct Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to visit the ghat itself, as it is a public and religious space.
Ritual/Service Charges: You should budget for offerings, pooja materials, and mandatory Rs.Rs.Rs.Rs.Rs.Rs.Rs. (Dakshina) for the priests (pandas) i...No Direct Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to visit the ghat itself, as it is a public and religious space.
Ritual/Service Charges: You should budget for offerings, pooja materials, and mandatory Rs.Rs.Rs.Rs.Rs.Rs.Rs. (Dakshina) for the priests (pandas) if you choose to perform specific rituals like Pindadaan or a guided puja. These charges are variable and should be discussed beforehand.
Donation: Voluntary donations to the temple trust or for the maintenance of the Ghat are often welcomed but are not mandatory fees.
Photography Charges: Generally, photography for personal use is free, but always be cautious and respectful; commercial photography may require local permission.Timing:
Regular Timings: The Ghat is essentially an open-air public space, generally accessible from 6 AM to 8 PM daily for main religious activities.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (Sunrise) is the most ideal visit time for a quiet, spiritual expe...Regular Timings: The Ghat is essentially an open-air public space, generally accessible from 6 AM to 8 PM daily for main religious activities.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (Sunrise) is the most ideal visit time for a quiet, spiritual experience and to witness the first ritual baths. The evening (Sunset) is also highly recommended for the atmosphere and the chance to witness the evening Arati.
Peak Hours: The Ghat is most crowded during major festivals or auspicious days on the lunar calendar.Special Events:
Baruni Snana Yatra: The most significant and rare event, a holy dip festival that takes place once every twelve years on the Maha Baruni Tithi, attracting massive crowds.
Ashokastami Fair: A major annual fair that also takes place near the g...Baruni Snana Yatra: The most significant and rare event, a holy dip festival that takes place once every twelve years on the Maha Baruni Tithi, attracting massive crowds.
Ashokastami Fair: A major annual fair that also takes place near the ghat, drawing thousands of devotees who perform rituals and baths for salvation.
Daily Arati: The daily evening aarti (lamp ceremony) dedicated to the river Baitarani offers a spiritual spectacle.Best Photo Spots:
Sunrise and Sunset Views: The best time for photography is during sunrise and sunset, when the light dramatically reflects off the river Baitarani and highlights the monumental steps of the Ghat.
River Edge Close-ups: Capture the flow of the...Sunrise and Sunset Views: The best time for photography is during sunrise and sunset, when the light dramatically reflects off the river Baitarani and highlights the monumental steps of the Ghat.
River Edge Close-ups: Capture the flow of the holy water and the small boats, emphasizing the spiritual connection of the place.
Architectural Shots: Photograph the ancient, smaller temples clustered around the Ghat like the Saptamatruka temple, focusing on the details of their Kalinga architecture.
Candid Devotee Shots: Capture the vibrant life and faith of the pilgrims performing Pindadaan or taking the sacred bath (be respectful and seek permission).Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Ritual Bathing: Take a holy dip in the River Baitarani to cleanse sins, a central and essential activity for devotees, especially on auspicious days like Purnima or Sankranti.
Performing Pindadaan: Engage in ancestral rites (Pindadaan or Tarpan) to honor and seek blessings for departed ancestors; services from local priests (pandas) are available here.
Temple Hopping: Explore the surrounding complex of smaller temples like the Saptamatruka and Sidha Vinayak shrines, observing the rituals and architecture of each.
Witnessing Arati: Attend the evening Ganga Arati (if performed) or the daily temple rituals, which offer a mesmerizing spiritual and visual experience as lamps are lit along the riverbank.
Photography and View: Capture ...
Information
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Why Famous:
King Jajati Keshari's Yajna: The place is most famous for the legendary Dashashwamedha Yagna performed by King Jajati Keshari, which is the foundational event that gave rise to the name Jajpur (derived from 'Yajñapura' or 'City of Yajna').
Sacr...King Jajati Keshari's Yajna: The place is most famous for the legendary Dashashwamedha Yagna performed by King Jajati Keshari, which is the foundational event that gave rise to the name Jajpur (derived from 'Yajñapura' or 'City of Yajna').
Sacred River Baitarani: Being on the bank of the Baitarani, a river believed to have the power to help souls cross to the other side, it is an exceptionally auspicious spot for ritualistic bathing and rites for the ancestors.
The Baruni Snana Festival: The rare and grand festival of Baruni Snana, held once every twelve years (Maha Baruni), attracts lakhs of pilgrims who take a holy dip for salvation. -
Architecture:
Architectural Style and Materials: The primary architecture is the monumental flight of steps (Ghat) leading down to the river, constructed typically with local granite or laterite stone, a common material in ancient Odisha construction. The focus is on functionality and du...Architectural Style and Materials: The primary architecture is the monumental flight of steps (Ghat) leading down to the river, constructed typically with local granite or laterite stone, a common material in ancient Odisha construction. The focus is on functionality and durability to withstand the flow of the Baitarani river.
Dimension and Layout: The Ghat consists of a wide series of steps, ensuring accessibility for large crowds during festivals. The adjacent temples, though small, follow the traditional Kalinga temple architectural style, featuring a basic Rekha Deula (Sanctum) and possibly a small Pidha Deula (Assembly Hall) or just a simple shrine. The Saptamatruka temple is notable for housing a rare set of mother goddesses.
Sculptural Details: While the Ghat itself is plain, the surrounding smaller temples contain fragmentary sculptures, including images of various deities and decorative motifs, hinting at the high level of craftsmanship prevalent during the Somavanshi period. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar, BBI), approx. 103 km away. From the airport, hire a pre-paid taxi or take a bus to Jajpur Town.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Jajpur Keonjhar ... -
Near Tourist Places:
Maa Biraja Temple (3 km), Kusuma Pond & Park (2. 5 km), Siddheswar Temple (7 km), Jajpur Town Anicut (0. 5 km), Nabhi Gaya Well (within Biraja Temple complex - 3 km), Vyasasarobar Picnic Place (30 km), Ratnagiri Buddhist Monastery (65 km), Udayagiri Buddhist Complex (70 km), Langudi Hills (65 km), Mahavinayak Temple (55 km).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The steps of the Ghat can be slippery, especially during monsoon or after a bath; wear appropriate footwear. Be cautious when bathing in the River Baitarani as the current can be strong. Carry a basic first-aid kit.
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