The Tara Tarini Temple is a famous Hindu temple situated on the Kumari hills beside Purushottampur in the district of Ganjam, Odisha, India. The temple is devoted to the twin goddesses Tara and Tarini and is believed to be a form of Adi Shakti. The temple is found on the banks of the Rushikulya River and is among the four most important Shakti Peethas in India. The history of the temple goes back to ancient days, with the Kalinga emperors making major repairs in the 17th century. The chief deities are two stone idols with gold and silver ornaments. The temple grounds occupy approximately 5 acres and have several minor shrines.
The temple is a significant pilgrimage destination, with thousands of pilgrims, particularly on the occasion of the Chaitra Mela festival, which occurs on Tuesdays in the Hindu month of Chaitra. On this festival, more than 100,000 (1 lakh) pilgrims come to the temple. The temple remains open from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM on Sankranti days so that it is available for worship during the day. The Tara Tarini Temple is not just a religious hub but also a cultural icon, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of Odisha.
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Tara Tarini Temple Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Tara Tarini Temple |
| Location | Kumari hills, near Purushottampur, Ganjam district, Odisha, India |
| Deities | Goddess Tara and Goddess Tarini |
| River | Located on the banks of the Rushikulya River |
| Historical Significance | One of the four major Shakti Peethas in India |
| Year Built | Ancient temple, significant renovations in the 17th century |
| Temple Area | Approximately 5 acres |
| Major Festival | Chaitra Mela (Tuesdays in the Hindu month of Chaitra) |
| Annual Visitors | Over 100,000 (1 lakh) devotees during Chaitra Mela |
| Temple Timings | 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM on Sankranti days |
| Architecture Style | Traditional Odia temple architecture |
| Management | Local temple authorities and state government |
| Significant Rituals | Daily worship, special poojas during festivals |
| Accessibility | Easily accessible by road from nearby towns and cities |
Tara Tarini Temple Darshan Timings [2025]
Temple Opening and Closing Time
- Temple Opening Time: 5:30 AM
- Temple Closing Tim: 10:00 PM
Tara Tarini Temple Berhampur timing:
| Event/Activity | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 5:00 AM |
| Majana | 5:05 AM |
| Mangala Aarti & Pahili Bhog | 6:15 AM |
| Raja Bhog | 12:15 PM |
| Pahada (Closing) | 12:35 PM |
| Temple Reopens | 2:15 PM |
| Evening Majana | 5:15 PM |
| Sandhya Aarti | 6:15 PM |
| Bhog & Pahada | 9:45 PM |
| Temple Closing | 10:00 PM |
Online Darshan Booking for Tara Tarini Temple
Currently the temple does not provide any online booking facility To the devotees and so the devotees directly reach to the temple to get their darshan ticket or any Seva tickets and also if any devotee want to book their special pooja then they have to visit temple ticket counter and then proceed with the process.
Ropeway Booking
The temple features a ropeway service for easier access to the hilltop shrine. Tickets can be booked online via Udan Khatola, with prices starting at ₹15 for a round trip
Free Entry and Paid Services
Ropeway Service: To reach the hilltop shrine, devotees can use the ropeway service. Tickets are priced at ₹28 for a one-way trip and ₹40 for a round trip.
General Entry: Entry to the temple is free for all devotees.
Special Darshan: For expedited access during peak times, a Special Darshan ticket is available for ₹100 per person.
VIP Darshan Ticket Tara Tarini Temple
Currently, there is no specific “VIP Darshan” ticket apart from the Special Darshan mentioned above. The ₹100 Special Darshan ticket provides quicker access, especially beneficial during festivals and crowded periods.
Tara Tarini Temple Berhampur Ticket Price
| Seva/Darshan | Timing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Majana | 5:05 AM | ₹50 |
| Mangala Aarti & Pahili Bhog | 6:15 AM | ₹100 |
| Raja Bhog | 12:15 PM | ₹200 |
| Evening Majana | 5:15 PM | ₹50 |
| Sandhya Aarti | 6:15 PM | ₹100 |
| Bhog & Pahada | 9:45 PM | ₹200 |
| Sarva Darshan | 6:00 AM to 12:35 PM, 2:15 PM to 9:45 PM | Free |
| Special Darshan | 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM | ₹100 |
These Sevas and Darshans provide various opportunities for devotees to participate in the temple rituals and receive blessings. If you need more details or have any specific questions
Tara Tarini Temple Ropeway Timings and Ticket Prices:
| Day | Timings | Ticket Price (One Way) | Round Trip | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | ₹100 (Adults) | ₹180 | Open |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | ₹80 (Children 5-12 yrs) | ₹140 | Open |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | ₹100 (Adults) | ₹180 | Open |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | ₹80 (Children) | ₹140 | Open |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | ₹100 (Adults) | ₹180 | Open |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | ₹80 (Children) | ₹140 | Open |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | ₹100 (Adults) | ₹180 | Open |
Tara Tarini Temple pooja timings
The temple follows a structured schedule of daily rituals:
| Ritual | Timing | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Majana | 5:05 AM | Morning cleansing of the deities |
| Mangala Aarti & Pahili Bhog | 6:15 AM | Early morning aarti and first offering |
| Raja Bhog | 12:15 PM | Main midday offering |
| Pahada (Midday Rest) | 12:35 PM – 2:15 PM | Deities’ rest period |
| Evening Majana | 5:15 PM | Evening cleansing of the deities |
| Sandhya Aarti | 6:15 PM | Evening aarti |
| Bhog & Pahada (Night Rest) | 9:45 PM | Night offering and deities’ rest |
History & Significance of Tara Tarini Temple
One of the oldest Mother Goddess worship sites in India is the Tara Tarini Temple, which is situated in Ganjam district, Odisha, on the Kumari hills close to the Rushikulya river. One of the four Adi Shakti Peethas, it is thought to be the location where Goddess Sati’s breasts fell. Because of its holy location, it has become a significant hub for the Shakta tradition, which represents the fertility and enduring power of women.
The twin goddesses worshipped together, Tara and Tarini, are the namesakes of the temple and frequently represent the combined power of protection and compassion. The location is connected to ancient Vajrayana practices through the term “Tara,” which is also connected to Buddhist Tantric traditions.Because “Tarini,” which translates to “She who delivers from troubles,” symbolizes the Goddess’s function as a rescuer in life’s trials, the temple serves as a haven of faith for followers looking for solace from material suffering.
Tara Tarini has attracted pilgrims, sages, and tantriks for centuries. Thousands of devotees come here for the renowned Chaitra Mela, which is celebrated with special poojas and large-scale mundan (tonsure) ceremonies during the Hindu month of Chaitra (March–April). The temple’s location, which can be reached by road, ropeway, or steps, is also symbolic, signifying a spiritual ascent toward divine wisdom.
Tribal communities have long offered the goddesses their first harvests and children’s hair, demonstrating how deeply ingrained this temple is in South Odisha culture.Tara Tarini is connected to Odisha’s rich maritime history because it was also used as a navigational deity by Kalinga region ancient mariners who sought blessings before setting sail.
How to Reach Tara Tarini Temple
To travel to the Tara Tarini Temple in Ganjam, Odisha, you can follow these steps:
- By Flight: Take a flight to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. The airport is approximately 174 kilometers from the temple. You can take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
- Train: Reach Brahmapur Railway Station. The temple is situated approximately 32 kilometers from the station. A taxi can be hired or you can travel on a local bus to reach the temple.
- By Bus: Board state-owned or private buses and reach Brahmapur Bus Stand. The temple is situated around 32 kilometers from the bus stand. Hire a taxi or travel by local bus to the temple.
- By Road: Travel by car to Kumari hills by good road from neighboring towns and cities. Ample parking area is available just adjacent to the temple.
While going to the bottom of Kumari hills, one can opt either to walk on the staircase or travel via the ropeway up to the hilltop temple.
Contact Information of the Temple
Here is the address of the Tara Tarini Temple in Ganjam, Odisha:
- Address: Tara Tarini Temple, Kumari hills, near Purushottampur, Ganjam district, Odisha, India
- Telephone: +91 680 228 1456
- Website: Tara Tarini Temple Official Website
If you need more details or have any specific questions, feel free to ask!
Dress Code at Tara Tarini Temple
Devotees are expected to wear traditional, modest attire—men in dhoti or trousers with a shirt or upper cloth, and women in saree, salwar-kameez, or full-length dresses. Western wear like shorts, sleeveless tops, and tight outfits are strictly discouraged to maintain the temple’s spiritual sanctity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Tara Tarini Temple
Q1. What is the best time to visit Tara Tarini Temple?
The temple is open year-round, but the most spiritually vibrant period is during Chaitra Mela (March–April), especially on Tuesdays, when special rituals and fairs attract thousands of devotees.
Q2. Is there a ropeway facility to reach the temple hilltop?
Yes, a ropeway service is available, offering a scenic and comfortable ascent to the shrine. It’s an ideal option for elderly visitors or those avoiding the 999-step climb.
Q3. Are mobile phones allowed inside the temple?
Phones are permitted but must be kept on silent mode. Photography inside the inner sanctum may be restricted, so it’s best to follow posted signs and respect temple customs.
Q4. Can I book poojas or sevas online?
Yes. Several rituals like Abhishekam, Navratri Puja, and Sahasranama Archana can be booked in advance through platforms like YatraDham or directly via temple authorities.
Q5. Is there a dress code for darshan?
Absolutely. The temple encourages traditional Indian attire. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothes to maintain the sanctity of the sacred space.
Q6. Are there food and prasad facilities?
Yes, devotees can enjoy Khechidi Bhoga (rice-lentil prasad) served especially during festivals. Several stalls and rest houses also serve vegetarian food nearby.
Q7. Is parking available at the temple?
Yes, the temple complex includes ample parking space for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers at the base of the hill.