Jajpur
History of Jajpur: Jajpur is one of the most ancient cities of Odisha. It was once the capital of the Somvanshi dynasty. The city is named after King Jajati Keshari. It is located on the banks of the sacred Baitarani River. It has a rich religious and archaeological heritage. The Biraja Temple: The city is famous for the Maa Biraja Temple. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. The deity is a form of Goddess Durga with two hands. It is a major center for pilgrimage and spiritual rites. The temple attracts thousands of devotees every year. Archaeological Wealth: Jajpur is home to many ancient ruins and sculptures. The Buddhist triangle of Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, and Udayagiri is nearby. These sites feature massive stupas and monasteries. The excavations have revealed a glorious past of Buddhist learning. It is a treasure trove for historians. Culture and Festivals: The city is known for its vibrant local traditions. The Ratha Yatra of Maa Biraja is unique and famous. Local crafts like stone carving and weaving are very popular. The people are deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. Festivals are celebrated with great pomp and show here.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 DaysPlace Type:
Religious & HeritageEntry Fees:
Temple Entrance: Most temples in Jajpur have no entry fee for visitors. They are open to all devotees and tourists for free. Donations for temple maintenance are voluntary.
Museum Entry: Small fees are charged for entering the archaeologic...Temple Entrance: Most temples in Jajpur have no entry fee for visitors. They are open to all devotees and tourists for free. Donations for temple maintenance are voluntary.
Museum Entry: Small fees are charged for entering the archaeological museum. Usually, it is around 20 Rupees for Indian citizens. Foreign tourists may have to pay a slightly higher rate.
Activity Fees: Boat rides and special rituals may have separate costs. These are usually decided by the local operators or priests. Always ask for the price before starting.Timing:
Temple Hours: Most temples are open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. There is a short break in the afternoon during the summer. Early morning is the best time for peaceful darshan.
Museum Hours: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on most days. It may ...Temple Hours: Most temples are open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. There is a short break in the afternoon during the summer. Early morning is the best time for peaceful darshan.
Museum Hours: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on most days. It may be closed on Mondays and public holidays. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid any disappointment.Special Events:
Biraja Ratha Yatra: A massive festival held during the Durga Puja time. The chariot of the Goddess is pulled by thousands of devotees. It is a spectacle of faith and local culture.
Maha Shivratri: Celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Sh...Biraja Ratha Yatra: A massive festival held during the Durga Puja time. The chariot of the Goddess is pulled by thousands of devotees. It is a spectacle of faith and local culture.
Maha Shivratri: Celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Shiva temples. The city is decorated with lights and flowers for the night. Special prayers and fasts are observed by the people.Best Photo Spots:
Biraja Temple Gate: The ornate entrance gate is a perfect photo spot. The carvings are very clear and look great in daylight. Use a low angle for a more grand look.
Baitarani River Bank: The river at sunset offers a peaceful background. T...Biraja Temple Gate: The ornate entrance gate is a perfect photo spot. The carvings are very clear and look great in daylight. Use a low angle for a more grand look.
Baitarani River Bank: The river at sunset offers a peaceful background. The reflection of the temples in the water is very scenic. It is a favorite spot for landscape photographers.
Ancient Idols: Close-up shots of the stone sculptures are a must. They show the incredible skill of ancient Odishan artists. Use a macro lens if you have one for details.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
@@Sub Place Details: Baruneswar Pitha is a famous religious and picnic spot located in the village of Arei, near Jajpur. It is situated on the banks of the Kushabhadra stream, a branch of the holy Baitarani river. The presiding deity here is Lord Baruneswar (Shiva). A unique feature of this temple is that the Shiva Linga remains submerged under water most of the time. This phenomenon is considered divine by the devotees. The place is exceptionally famous for the Baruneswar Mela, also known as the Makar Mela, which starts on the 14th of January every year. During this time, the entire area transforms into a massive carnival. Thousands of people from across Odisha visit to take a holy dip and enjoy the festivities. The natural beauty of the place, with the flowing stream and surrounding trees, makes it a popular weekend getaway for families. It is a blend of spiritual significance and natural charm. The history of the Pitha is deeply rooted in local folklore, suggesting that the site has been a place of worship for millennia. :
@@Details: The Gokarneswar Temple is a profound spiritual landmark nestled on the serene banks of the Brahmani River in the Jaraka region. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient shrine is a cornerstone of the Shaivite tradition in Odisha. Devotees flock here to experience the tranquil energy that permeates the air, often participating in deep meditation and ancestral rites. The temple is not just a place of worship but a historical witness to the evolving cultural tapestry of the region. Legend has it that the Pandavas visited this sacred site during their exile to offer prayers to their ancestors, solidifying its status as a Pitra Tirtha. The lush greenery surrounding the temple complex provides a refreshing escape from urban life, making it a favorite for both pilgrims and nature lovers. Throughout the year, the rhythmic chanting of hymns and the scent of incense create a divine atmosphere that rejuvenates the soul. Visitors often find solace by the river ghats, where the water is believed to possess purifying properties. The temple plays a vital role in local community life, hosting various social and religious gatherings that strengthen communal bonds. Its proximity to the national highway makes it an accessible yet peaceful retreat.
@@Sub Place Details: Mahavinayak Temple is one of the oldest and most revered shrines in Odisha, located at the base of the Baruna Hill near Chandikhole. This temple is unique because it is dedicated to the worship of five major Hindu deities—Ganesha, Shiva, Vishnu, Durga, and Surya—all represented in a single granite stone called a Swayambhu Lingam. According to legend, the goddess Rati Devi prayed here to release her husband Kamadeva from a curse, and the five gods appeared simultaneously to bless her. The temple surroundings are lush with green forests and natural water springs that flow year-round, adding to the spiritual and scenic charm. It serves as a major pilgrimage site for devotees of both Shaivism and Vaishnavism, reflecting the cultural synthesis of Odisha's religious history. The atmosphere is exceptionally peaceful, making it a perfect spot for meditation and spiritual rejuvenation away from the urban noise.
@@Details: Gangi Hill, also known as Gangi Pitha, is a significant archaeological and spiritual site located near the famous Lalitgiri Buddhist complex in Jajpur. This long, low-lying hill stretching for about 1 KM is made of Baulamalia stone and is famous for its ancient caves and temples. The hill is a fusion of Hindu and Buddhist heritage, as it is believed that saints and sages of both traditions used these caves for deep meditation in ancient times. There are three primary caves on the lower part of the hill, with the most famous being the Ashwasthamaa Bila. Another small cave, the Nila Gumpah, is a tiny chamber measuring only 3 feet in height, symbolizing the ascetic lifestyle of the hermits who lived here. At the hilltop, there is a complex of temples dedicated to Goddess Gangi, Lord Hanuman, and Lord Shiva. A unique feature of this hill is the presence of several natural wells and a small spring known as Gupta Ganga, which flows near a Shiva Linga encased in a massive black rock. The site offers a serene, off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers who wish to explore the rugged beauty of Jajpur's landscape. The hill provides a panoramic view of the surrounding Buddhist heritage sites, making it a perfect spot for those interested in the historical layers of the Diamond Triangle of Odisha.
@@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 his 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.
@@Details: Jajpur Town, the administrative headquarters of the district, is a living museum of Odisha's glorious past. Known historically as Viraja Kshetra, it served as the capital for several ruling dynasties, including the Somavamsis. The town is strategically located on the banks of the Baitarani River, which is considered as sacred as the Ganges. Today, it is a bustling urban center that beautifully balances modernity with tradition. The town is famous for the Maa Biraja Temple, a major Shakti Peetha where the navel of Goddess Sati is said to have fallen. Walking through the streets of Jajpur, one can find numerous ancient ruins, beautifully renovated heritage ponds like Kusuma Pond, and vibrant local markets selling traditional handlooms. The town is a hub for the Tussar silk weaving industry, with nearby villages producing world-class fabrics. Jajpur's culinary scene is equally rich, offering authentic Odia dishes like Dalma and sweets like Chhena Poda. The local governance has recently focused on heritage tourism, transforming the town into a clean and tourist-friendly destination. It serves as the perfect base for exploring the famous Diamond Triangle of Buddhist sites—Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, and Lalitgiri. The spirit of the town is best experienced during its many festivals, where the streets come alive with folk dances and music.
@@Sub Place Details: Balichandrapur is a significant location in the Jajpur district, serving as a gateway to the famous Buddhist sites of Ratnagiri and Udayagiri. The main temple here is dedicated to Lord Jagannath and is known as the Birupa Srikhetra. It is a relatively modern but spiritually vibrant center. The temple was built to provide a place of worship for the local community that follows the traditions of the Puri Jagannath temple. The name Balichandrapur comes from the white sands of the Birupa river that flows nearby. The temple complex is beautifully maintained and features idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. It is a major stop for tourists traveling between Cuttack and the Buddhist heritage sites. The local market around the temple is famous for traditional Odia sweets and snacks. Visiting this temple offers a peaceful break during a long heritage tour. The community here is very active in organizing festivals, especially the annual Ratha Yatra, which attracts people from all the surrounding villages. It represents the deep-rooted Jagannath culture that permeates every corner of Odisha. :Show All
@@Sub Place Details: Neulpur Hill Top is a rising star on the tourism map of Jajpur, primarily known for its breathtaking View Point that offers a 360-degree perspective of the Chandikhole region. Unlike the highly religious sites nearby, Neulpur is sought after for its natural beauty and the well-maintained road that allows vehicles to reach the very top. The hill is part of the Eastern Ghats range and is characterized by its rugged terrain interspersed with patches of dense greenery. It has become a favorite destination for local youth and families looking for a quick getaway to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. The hilltop provides a clear view of the winding highways, the surrounding smaller hillocks, and the vast agricultural plains of the Jajpur district. It is an ideal spot for those who want to experience the "hill station" vibe without traveling to distant mountains. The area is currently being developed with better amenities to cater to the increasing number of weekend tourists and nature photographers.Information
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Why Famous:
Shakti Peetha: It is globally famous as the "Navigaya" where the navel of Sati fell. It is a prime destination for Hindu pilgrims. The religious significance of the Biraja Temple is immense.
Ancient Capital: Being the former capital, it ho...Shakti Peetha: It is globally famous as the "Navigaya" where the navel of Sati fell. It is a prime destination for Hindu pilgrims. The religious significance of the Biraja Temple is immense.
Ancient Capital: Being the former capital, it holds many historical secrets. The city reflects the grandeur of medieval Odisha. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in state history. -
Architecture:
Kalinga Style: The temples of Jajpur showcase the classic Kalinga architecture. They feature intricate carvings on the outer walls. The main tower or Vimana is tall and majestic. The structures are built with local sandstone and laterite.
Mon...Kalinga Style: The temples of Jajpur showcase the classic Kalinga architecture. They feature intricate carvings on the outer walls. The main tower or Vimana is tall and majestic. The structures are built with local sandstone and laterite.
Monastic Layout: The nearby Buddhist sites have a structured layout. They consist of a central stupa surrounded by small cells for monks. The gateways are decorated with beautiful floral patterns. These ruins show the advanced engineering of the 7th century.
River Ghats: The Dashashwamedha Ghat on the Baitarani is historically significant. It features a series of stone steps leading to the water. Small shrines are built along the river bank for rituals. The architecture is functional and spiritually elevating. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Bhubaneswar is the nearest international airport. From there, you can hire a car or take a train to reach Jajpur. The drive takes about 2 to 3 hours.
By Train: Jajpur Keonjhar Road is the main railway station. It is located about ... -
Near Tourist Places:
Ratnagiri (35 km), Lalitgiri (45 km), Udayagiri (40 km), Cuttack (75 km), Bhubaneswar (100 km), Chandikhole (40 km), Mahavinayak Temple (45 km), Langudi Hill (30 km), Kushabhadra River (20 km), Duburi (25 km).
Tourism Tips
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Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly when visiting the temples in the city. Remove your shoes before entering any sacred premises. Follow the local customs and traditions with respect.
Safety Measures: Be careful near the river banks durin...
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Biraja TempleBaneswara TempleBaruneswar PithaBaruni TempleBalichandrapur TempleChandi TempleChhatia Bata TempleDashashwamedh GhatGada Chandi TempleGadamadhupur Royal PalaceGanesha Temple Gangi Hill & TempleGirikanan Hill Station Akhandalamani TempleAkhuapada AnicutAshokjhar WaterfallBaitarani River ViewpointBaji Rout MemorialMore PlacesNote:-
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