History of Tara Tarini Temple  

The history of Tara Tarini Temple dates back to the prehistoric era. The temple is believed to be one of the oldest Shakti Peethas in India, where the divine feminine energy of the universe is worshipped. According to Hindu mythology, the temple was built by Lord Vishnu during the Satya Yuga. Later, it was renovated by the Ganga dynasty rulers in the 16th century. The temple has been a significant pilgrimage site for the devotees of Shakti for centuries.  

Significance of Tara Tarini Temple  

Tara Tarini Temple is of great significance to the Hindu community, especially to the worshippers of Shakti. The temple is believed to be a powerful Shakti Peetha, where the breast of Sati fell when Lord Vishnu cut her body into pieces with his Sudarshan Chakra. The temple is also associated with several legends, including the story of the two goddesses Tara and Tarini, who were the saviors of the people of the Purnagiri region from a demon named Tamas.  

Architecture and Structure of the Temple  

The Tara Tarini Temple is an ancient temple that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. The temple complex comprises two main shrines, one dedicated to Tara and the other to Tarini. The temple is built on a hill, surrounded by lush green forests and a panoramic view of the Mahanadi River. The temple's architecture is an excellent example of the Kalinga style, with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various Hindu deities.  

How to Reach Tara Tarini Temple  

Tara Tarini Temple is located in the Purnagiri region of Odisha, around 125 km from the state capital, Bhubaneswar. The nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, and the nearest railway station is the Berhampur Railway Station. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.  

Best Time to Visit Tara Tarini Temple  

The best time to visit Tara Tarini Temple is during the winter season, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the temple's beauty. The summer months from March to June should be avoided due to scorching heat, and the monsoon season from July to September should also be avoided due to heavy rainfall.  

Accommodation near Tara Tarini Temple  

There are several options for accommodation near Tara Tarini Temple, ranging from budget hotels to luxurious resorts. Some of the popular places to stay include the Tara Residency, Hotel Surya Palace, and Hotel Sai International. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, excellent hospitality, and other amenities like restaurants, swimming pools, and spas.  

Festivals Celebrated at Tara Tarini Temple  

Tara Tarini Temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, which attract devotees from all over the country. The most popular festival celebrated at the temple is the Chaitra Mela, which is held during the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar. The festival is a grand celebration, and devotees come to offer their prayers to the goddess Tara Tarini. Other festivals celebrated at the temple include Navratri, Durga Puja, and Diwali.  

Rituals and Customs Followed at Tara Tarini Temple  

The rituals and customs followed at Tara Tarini Temple are an essential aspect of the temple's culture and tradition. The devotees are required to follow certain customs, like taking a bath before entering the temple and dressing modestly. The temple follows a strict code of conduct, and the use of mobile phones and cameras inside the temple is prohibited. The priests perform several rituals like the Abhishekam and the Aarti, which are believed to please the goddess Tara Tarini.  

Other Places to Visit Near Tara Tarini Temple  

Apart from the Tara Tarini Temple, there are several other places to visit near the temple. The Gopalpur Beach, located around 50 km from the temple, is a beautiful beach that offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The Berhampur City, located around 30 km from the temple, is a bustling city known for its silk sarees, temples, and local markets. The Taptapani Hot Springs, located around 80 km from the temple, is a natural hot spring that offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.  

Things to Keep in Mind While Visiting Tara Tarini Temple  

While visiting the Tara Tarini Temple, there are certain things that the devotees need to keep in mind. It is important to respect the customs and traditions of the temple and follow the code of conduct. The temple is located on a hill, and there are around 999 steps to reach the temple. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle while climbing the stairs. It is also important to carry an umbrella or a hat to protect oneself from the sun.  

Hidden facts about tara-tarini-temple-purnagiri:-

The temple is situated on the Kumari hills and can be reached after climbing 999 steps. It is believed that the number 999 is symbolic and represents the infinite nature of the divine mother.

The Tara-Tarini Temple has a unique tradition of offering a pair of live pigeons to the goddesses as a part of the ritual. It is believed that the pigeons are a symbol of love and devotion.

The temple is also associated with the legend of Lord Rama and Sita. It is believed that Lord Rama and Sita stayed on the Kumari hills during their exile and worshipped the goddesses.

The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is believed that the goddess Tara is worshipped as a Buddhist deity in Tibet, and the Tara-Tarini Temple is considered a significant Buddhist site in India.

The temple is also known for its annual Chaitra Mela, which is held in March-April every year. Thousands of devotees from across the country gather to participate in the festivities and seek the blessings of the goddesses.

Overall, the Tara-Tarini Temple is an important pilgrimage site in India, with a rich history and tradition that attracts devotees from all over the world.

How to reach Tara Tarini Temple by air and nearest airport?  

FAQs  

Is photography allowed inside the Tara Tarini Temple?   

Ans: No, photography is not allowed inside the temple.  

What is the best time to visit Tara Tarini Temple?   

Ans: The best time to visit Tara Tarini Temple is during the winter season, from October to February.  

Are there any accommodation options near Tara Tarini Temple?   

Ans: Yes, there are several accommodation options near the temple, ranging from budget hotels to luxurious resorts.  

How to reach Tara Tarini Temple?   

Ans: Tara Tarini Temple is located in the Purnagiri region of Odisha, and the nearest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.