Tara Tarini Temple is one of the most famous and ancient temples in Odisha, India. It is located on the Kumari Hills near the Rushikulya River in Ganjam district. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara and Goddess Tarini, who are worshipped together as twin goddesses. This temple is known as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. The height of the hill is about 708 feet from sea level, and devotees can reach the top by road or ropeway.
The temple is around 1,000 years old and has strong spiritual importance for people of Odisha. Every year, more than 10 lakh devotees visit this temple, especially during festivals. The temple is open for devotees on all days of the week. On normal days, around 3,000 to 5,000 people visit, while on festival days the number can go above 50,000.
The main deity is worshipped in the form of two stones decorated with gold and silver ornaments. The temple is managed by the Endowments Department of the Odisha Government. Tara Tarini Temple is also famous for fulfilling wishes, especially related to marriage, children, and health. Devotees often offer coconuts, sarees, and bangles to the goddess.
Temple Overview Table Tara Tarini Temple
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Tara Tarini Temple |
| Location | Ganjam District, Odisha |
| Hill Height | Around 708 feet |
| Main Deity | Goddess Tara and Tarini |
| Temple Age | About 1,000 years |
| Shakti Peetha | Yes (One of 51) |
| Annual Visitors | Around 10 lakh |
| Ropeway Length | Around 800 meters |
| Managed By | Odisha Endowments Dept |
Dress Code at Tara Tarini Temple
A. Dress Code for Men
- Wear simple and traditional clothes
- Shirt and full pants or dhoti preferred
- Avoid shorts and sleeveless vests
- Clean and decent clothing is required
- Footwear must be removed before entry
B. Dress Code for Women
- Saree, salwar kameez, or long dress preferred
- Avoid short skirts and sleeveless tops
- Dupatta is advised inside temple
- Modest and traditional dress recommended
- Bright and clean clothes are acceptable
C. Dress Code for Kids
- Comfortable and decent clothing
- Avoid very short dresses
- Traditional wear preferred during festivals
- Footwear not allowed inside temple
- Simple cotton clothes advised
Sevas and Darshans at the Temple
Tara Tarini Temple offers different sevas and darshan options for devotees. These sevas are simple and affordable so that every devotee can participate. Most sevas are performed in the morning hours. Special sevas are arranged during Tuesdays, Fridays, and festival days. Devotees believe that offering coconuts and sarees brings blessings from the goddess.
Sevas and Darshan Table
| Seva/Darshan | Price (₹) | Timings | Description (10 words) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free | 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Normal darshan for all devotees |
| Special Darshan | 50 | 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Quick darshan with less waiting |
| Coconut Offering | 30 | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Coconut offered for wish fulfillment |
| Saree Offering | 200 | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Saree offered to goddess |
| Kumkum Archana | 20 | 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Archana with kumkum and flowers |
Temple Timings Table
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 6:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Afternoon Break | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Temple Closing | 7:00 PM |
History of Tara Tarini Temple
The history of Tara Tarini Temple goes back more than 1,000 years. According to legends, the temple is connected to the story of Goddess Sati. It is believed that the breasts of Goddess Sati fell at this place, making it a Shakti Peetha. The temple was an important worship center for sailors, who prayed here before starting sea journeys.
In ancient times, the temple was under the patronage of the Kalinga kings. Old stone inscriptions found near the temple show that it was renovated many times between the 8th and 12th centuries. The hilltop location was chosen for spiritual energy and safety.
During British rule, the temple remained active, and local kings supported its maintenance. Over time, roads and steps were developed. In recent years, the Odisha Government introduced ropeway service to help elderly devotees. Today, the temple stands as a symbol of faith, culture, and tradition in southern Odisha.
How to Reach Tara Tarini Temple
Tara Tarini Temple is well connected by road, rail, and air. The temple is around 30 km from Berhampur city. Devotees can reach the base of the hill by bus, taxi, or private vehicle.
By Road: Regular buses run from Berhampur to Tara Tarini. The road distance is about 30 km. Parking facilities are available at the hill base.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Berhampur Railway Station, which is about 32 km away. From the station, taxis and auto-rickshaws are available.
By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, about 200 km away. From there, trains or buses can be used.
Ropeway: A ropeway of about 800 meters helps devotees reach the temple easily. It takes around 5 minutes.
Vratams, Festivals, and Celebrations
Tara Tarini Temple is famous for its festivals and special vratams. The most important festival is Chaitra Mela, held every Tuesday of Chaitra month. During this time, more than 2 lakh devotees visit the temple. Tuesdays and Fridays are considered very auspicious.
Devotees observe vratas for marriage, children, and health. Coconut breaking is a common ritual. Navratri is celebrated for 9 days with special poojas and decorations.
Important Festival Dates Table
| Festival | Month | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Chaitra Mela | March–April | Biggest annual festival |
| Navratri | Sept–Oct | 9-day goddess worship |
| Sankranti | Monthly | Special poojas |
| Tuesdays | Weekly | High devotee turnout |
Key Guidelines for Visitors
Visitors should follow temple rules for a peaceful darshan. Mobile phones, cameras, and bags are not allowed inside the sanctum. Footwear must be removed at the entrance. Devotees should stand in queues and follow instructions from temple staff.
Elderly people and children should use the ropeway for safety. Drinking water facilities are available near the temple. Devotees should avoid plastic and keep the surroundings clean.
Photography is allowed only in selected areas. Loud behavior is not permitted. Devotees are advised to visit early morning to avoid heavy crowds. During festivals, extra time should be planned due to long queues. Following these guidelines ensures a smooth and spiritual visit.
Contact Details of Tara Tarini Temple
Tara Tarini Temple is managed by the temple administration under the Odisha Government. The temple office is located near the hill base. Devotees can contact the office for seva details, festivals, and facilities.
The temple authority provides information counters during festival times. Emergency medical help is available during peak days. Ropeway service information is also provided at the entrance.
For official updates, devotees should rely only on temple notice boards and official announcements. Visiting during working hours helps in getting correct guidance and support.
FAQs about Tara Tarini Temple
- Where is Tara Tarini Temple located?
It is in Ganjam district, Odisha. - Is the temple a Shakti Peetha?
Yes, it is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. - What are the temple timings?
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. - Is ropeway service available?
Yes, ropeway service is available. - Is there any entry fee?
General darshan is free. - Which day is most crowded?
Tuesdays are very crowded. - What is the main festival?
Chaitra Mela is the main festival. - Can elderly people visit easily?
Yes, ropeway helps elderly devotees. - Are mobile phones allowed?
No, phones are not allowed inside. - How far is Berhampur from the temple?
It is about 30 km away.