BHATARIKA TEMPLE, ATHAGARH, ODISHA

 

Bhattarika Temple is located on the bank of Mahanadi River at Baramba Village, Cuttack. It is one among the most famous Shakti Peetha of Odisha. Bhattarika Temple is surrounded by the Magnificent view of the river plains and beautiful range of Ratangiri Mountains the place has a rustic charm to it.

Due to various mythological stories associated with this place, it is of great religious significance for the people of Odisha.

The major festivals celebrated here are Pana Sankranti in the month of Chaitra (April), Akshaya Trutiya in the month of Baisakh (May) and Dussehra (October). Thousands of pilgrims throng to this auspicious temple during these festive months.

There is a crude stairway which leads to the top of the hill. It is like a mini-terk to the highest point with small temples and caves on the way. One particular cave with the picture of Lord Hanuman is worth visiting. 

The Odisha tourism department has done a wonderful job by creating designated sheds on the top of the hill. Gazing at the magnificent vista, one gets the feeling of standing as tall as the surrounding mountains with the river valley rolling beneath one's feet.

It's hard to pin down what makes the place so endearing. Be it the loud roar of the mighty river reverberating through the valley, the sweeping views of the distant mountain range or the enhancing tales surrounding this place, it is sure to leave an indelible impression on your mind.