Initially, when Lord Jagannath disappears from public view in Puri for 15 days during Anavasara, lakhs of devotees turn their devotion towards an ancient temple located just 22 km away—the Alarnath Temple in Brahmagiri.
Interestingly, more than just a substitute shrine, this temple holds centuries of spiritual reverence, mythical stories, and architectural marvels.
Alarnath Temple Location: A Divine Spot Amidst Nature
Firstly, Brahmagiri, where the Alarnath Temple is located, lies 22 kilometers west of Puri’s Jagannath Temple.
Moreover, nature’s charm surrounds it—Bay of Bengal lies just 6 km to the south, Chilika Lake lies to the west, Bhargavi river flows to the north, and green forests spread on the other sides.
People say that Lord Brahma himself descended from heaven to witness the divine glory of this land, which is why they named it Brahmagiri.
Furthermore, even though a settlement has grown around it, the temple still exudes tranquility and spiritual aura.
Moreover, nature’s charm surrounds it—Bay of Bengal lies just 6 km to the south, Chilika Lake lies to the west, Bhargavi river flows to the north, and green forests spread on the other sides.
People say that Lord Brahma himself descended from heaven to witness the divine glory of this land, which is why they named it Brahmagiri.
Furthermore, even though a settlement has grown around it, the temple still exudes tranquility and spiritual aura.
History of Alarnath Temple: From Alwars to Kings
A temple that carries the legacy of devotion from South to East India.
Who were the Alwars?
In South India, the Alwars greatly devoted themselves to Lord Vishnu. Interestingly, the Tamil word ‘Alwar’ translates to Divyasuri or Vidyayogi in Sanskrit. Gradually, the Alwars influenced a wave of Vaishnavism that moved northward. Eventually, this movement reached Odisha in the 12th century through the teachings of Sri Ramanuja, who founded Sri Vaishnavism.
Ganga Dynasty’s Contribution
During the reign of King Chodagang Dev, the spread of Vaishnavism gained momentum in Odisha. Moreover, the actual construction of Alarnath Temple is credited to Madan Mahadev, brother of King Anangabhimdev. According to the Madalapanji, the temple was built in 1180 AD.
Since then, a spiritual connection was established between the Jagannath Temple and Alarnath Temple that continues till today. Furthermore, this bond highlights the religious unity and cultural continuity in the region.
Since then, a spiritual connection was established between the Jagannath Temple and Alarnath Temple that continues till today. Furthermore, this bond highlights the religious unity and cultural continuity in the region.
Spiritual Significance of Alarnath Temple
During Snana Purnima, Lord Jagannath is bathed with 108 pitchers of holy water. Consequently, this causes him to fall ill. For 15 days (Anavasara), he remains hidden, and darshan is not allowed. Therefore, this is when devotees turn their devotion to Lord Alarnath, who is believed to be another form of Jagannath himself.
Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s Divine Experience
In 1510 AD, when Sri Chaitanya arrived in Puri and couldn’t see Jagannath due to Anavasara, the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying:
“I reside in Brahmagiri as Alarnath. Come, and you shall see Me.”
Consequently, Chaitanya ran to Alarnath and had such an intense divine experience that he fainted in ecstasy on a stone. As a result, that stone melted under his body and still bears the imprint of his limbs. This sacred stone, known as Sarvaang Sila, lies within the temple premises.
Alarnath Temple Architecture: A Forgotten Masterpiece
Although people now neglect it, the architectural beauty of Alarnath Temple continues to mesmerize visitors. Specifically, the temple divides into three parts:
- Vimana (Sanctum) – 80 feet tall, 10.5 x 10.5 ft
- Jagamohan (Assembly Hall) – 50 feet tall, 34 x 12 ft
- Natmandir (Dance Hall) – 15 x 15 ft
Symbolism in the Idol
- Four hands hold: Lotus, Chakra, Shankha, and Gada (in a unique blessed posture)
- Adorned with: Crown, Necklace, Turban, Bracelets, Armlets, Waist belt, and Stone Mala
- Surrounded by: Idols of Lakshmi, Saraswati, Rukmini, Satyabhama, Lalita, Visakha, and Garuda
- Burn marks are visible on face and limbs, beautiful folklore of hot Khiri(Pudding) eating tale behind it.
Bhogarag (Offerings) & Daily Rituals at Alarnath Temple
Like in Jagannath Temple, Alarnath Temple follows detailed rituals and two types of Bhogs:
Sukhila Bhog (Dry Offerings)
- Morning (7 AM): Khaja, Laddu, Malpua, Gaja, Sarpuli
- Night (9:30 PM): Same sweets in Dhak offering
Sankhudi Bhog (Cooked Offerings)
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- Afternoon (12:30 PM): Rice, Dal, Besar
- Post-Lunch (1:30 PM): Sacred Milk
- Night (8 PM): Dahi Pakhal and Pariba Bhaja (Adar Dhak)
Festivals Celebrated at Alarnath Temple
Major festivals include:
- Chandan Yatra
- Dola Yatra
- Kumar Purnima
- Makar Sankranti
- Nanda Utsav
- Ekadashi Bedha
- Jagannath’s Anavasara period – The most sacred time
FAQs
1. What is Alarnath Temple famous for?
Alarnath Temple is renowned as the alternate abode of Lord Jagannath during his 15-day illness (Anavasara), attracting thousands of devotees for darshan and blessings.
2. Who built Alarnath Temple?
The temple was constructed in 1180 AD by Madan Mahadev, a ruler of the Ganga dynasty and brother of King Anangabhimdev.
3. Why did Chaitanya Mahaprabhu visit Alarnath Temple?
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu visited Alarnath when he couldn’t see Jagannath during Anavasara. The Lord appeared to him in a vision, saying that He resides in Alarnath. The emotional encounter left a body imprint on a stone, still visible today.
4. What is the architectural style of Alarnath Temple?
Built in Kalinga architecture, the temple features intricately carved walls, a majestic idol of Vishnu, and sculptural brilliance comparable to Odisha’s finest temples.
5. What is the best time to visit Alarnath Temple?
Visit during Anavasara (June-July) when Lord Jagannath is hidden from public view in Puri. This is when Alarnath receives thousands of pilgrims.
Conclusion: Why Alarnath Temple Deserves Your Visit
Alarnath Temple isn’t just a substitute for Jagannath—it’s a divine destination on its own. Its rich history, South Indian Vaishnavite connection, emotional tales of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, and architectural marvels make it one of the most spiritually vibrant places in Odisha.
If you’re visiting Puri or Odisha, don’t miss this timeless temple where devotion echoes through stone, ritual, and legend.Planning a spiritual trip to Puri?
Make sure you include Alarnath Temple in your itinerary—especially during Anavasara.Experience a darshan that devotees say holds 100 times more power.
Capture your moments with #AlarnathTempleExperience and inspire fellow devotees!
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