It is believed that devotees who are unable to worship Lord Jagannath during Anavasara can receive the deity's blessings at the Alarnath Temple. The ‘darshan’ at Alarnath during the Krishnapaksha of Ashadha Maas (monthof Ashadha) is considered equivalent to the ‘darshan’ of Lord Jagannath in Puri, attracting large crowds during this time. During this period, the temple servitors offer holy porridge, called "Kheer" in the local language, to the Lord.
Its rich history, architectural marvels, and profound religious significance make it a must-visit destination for devotees and tourists alike. The temple's serene setting amidst lush greenery and the tranquil Brahmagiri landscape adds to its spiritual ambiance.
History / Legend: The origins of Alarnath Temple are steeped in legend and ancient tradition. According to local lore, the temple dates back to the time of Lord Brahma, who is believed to have performed penance at this site. The presiding deity, Lord Alarnath, is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Historical records suggest that the temple was patronized by the Ganga dynasty and later by the Gajapati rulers of Odisha, who contributed to its maintenance and expansion.
The temple gained prominence during the 12th century when it became associated with the Jagannath Temple in Puri. As per the legend, owing to the royal bathing ritual (a total of 108 herbal and aromatic water pots are used for the bath of the three deities), Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, fall sick and take 15 days rest, remaining out of public eyes. This duration, commencing on Jyeshtha Poornima and ending on Ashadha Amavasya, is popularly known as 'Anasara' or 'Anavasara'. During the Anavasara period, when, the three deities are believed to be in a state of convalescence following the Snana Yatra (bathing festival), devotees flock to Alarnath Temple to worship Lord Alarnath as a proxy for Lord Jagannath.
Architecture: Alarnath Temple is a fine example of Kalinga architecture, which is characterized by its intricate carvings, majestic towers, and robust structures. The temple complex consists of several structures, each with its unique architectural elements. The Vimaan, or the sanctum tower, is the most striking feature of the temple. Rising to a height of about 60 feet, it is adorned with exquisite carvings depicting scenes from Hindu scriptures, floral patterns, and geometric designs. The Vimaan is constructed in the Rekha Deula style, which is marked by its curvilinear spire and vertical elevation. The Jagmohan, or the assembly hall, is located in front of the sanctum and serves as a place for devotees to gather and offer prayers. This hall is built in the Pidha Deula style, characterized by its pyramidal roof. The interior of the Jagmohan is spacious (40 feet by 30 feet), allowing for large congregations during festivals and special occasions. The Natamandap, or the dance hall, is an open pavilion used for ritual dance and music performances. Supported by intricately carved pillars, the Natamandap (50 feet by 40 feet) showcases the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of that era. The carvings on the pillars depict dancers, musicians, and various deities, highlighting the cultural importance of dance and music in temple rituals. The Bhog Mandap, or the offering hall, is where the food offerings (bhog - भोग) are prepared and presented to the deity. This hall (30 feet by 20 feet) is a later addition to the temple complex and reflects the evolving architectural styles and the increased importance of ritual offerings in temple worship. There is a separate shrine for Goddess Lakshmi inside the temple compound.
In front of the presiding deity, there is a stone slab that bears the imprints of the body of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. It is said that when Chaitanya Mahaprabhu first prostrated himself in deep reverence before Lord Alarnath, the stone beneath him miraculously melted from the divine ecstasy of his touch.
The temple's architectural style is predominantly Kalinga, with influences from other regional styles due to renovations and additions over the centuries. The use of sandstone and laterite in construction is a common feature of temples in Odisha, ensuring durability and resistance to the region's climatic conditions.
Religious and Cultural Significance: Alarnath Temple holds immense religious significance for Vaishnavas. The temple is particularly important during the Anavasara period of Lord Jagannath, which lasts for about 15 days. During this time, devotees believe that Lord Jagannath manifests as Lord Alarnath, and they visit the temple in large numbers to seek his blessings. A ‘kund’ or lake behind the temple is the venue of 21-day long Chandan Yatra celebration. The temple also witnesses a surge in devotees during the Chandan Yatra, an annual festival that involves the ceremonial procession of the deities and their consecration in water.
Culturally, Alarnath Temple is a testament to the rich traditions of Odisha. The temple's rituals, festivals, and daily worship practices reflect the deep-rooted customs and beliefs of the region. The presence of the Natamandap underscores the importance of dance and music in the religious and cultural life of Odisha.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Alarnath Temple is during the Anavasara period, which usually falls in June-July, coinciding with the end of the Snana Yatra at the Jagannath Temple in Puri. Another ideal time is during the Chandan Yatra festival, which is celebrated in April-May. These periods offer a unique opportunity to witness the temple's vibrant rituals and festivals. From weather perspective, the winter season (October to Match) is most suitable time to visit Alarnath Temple and explore its vicinity.
How to Reach: Alarnath Temple is located in Brahmagiri, approximately 25 kilometers from Puri. It’s on the way when one travels from Puri to Chillika Lake. Reaching Alarnath Temple is relatively easy due to its proximity to Puri, a major pilgrimage and tourist destination in Odisha .
The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is about 60 kilometers from Puri. From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Puri and then proceed to Alarnath Temple. There is a railway station too in Puri, well-connected to major cities across India. From the railway station, hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a local bus to reach Brahmagiri, where Alarnath Temple is located. Puri is well-connected by road to other parts of Odisha and neighboring states. Regular bus services, both government and private, operate from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and other major cities to Puri.
Visiting Alarnath Temple offers a profound experience, allowing one to delve into the rich traditions and vibrant cultural heritage of Odisha. Whether a devotee seeking spiritual solace or a traveler interested in exploring historical and architectural marvels, Alarnath Temple promises a fulfilling and enriching journey.