Chausathi Yogini Temple, Hirapur, Khordha

Post category:Khordha / Temples

Chausathi (64) Yogini Temple (also known as Mahamaya Temple) is located at Hirapur and is 18 km distance from Bhubaneswar and 44 km from Khordha Town. This yogini temple has around 56 idols made of black granite, inscribed within the wall cavities, centring on the main idol, which is the Goddess Kali, who stands on a human head representing the triumph of the heart over the mind. It is the centre of the Tantric order for the worship of Chausath yoginis carved out of black chlorite stone. 64 Yogini Mandir is one of the famous temples in Khordha District.

The chausath temple is believed to have been built by Queen Hiradevi of the Bramha dynasty during the 9th century. It’s built circularly, completely put together with blocks of sandstone. The inside of the circular wall has cavities, each housing the statue of a goddess. The temple houses a central altar (Chandi Mandapa), which has the remaining 8 goddess idols on all 4 sides. Some historians believe that an idol of Maha Bhairava was worshipped in the Chandi Mandapa. Hirapur Chausath Yogini Temple is a tourist attraction located near Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Useful Temple Information

This temple is a tantric shrine dedicated to the worship of Yoginis, tantric goddesses believed to embody cosmic power and flight, and intimately connected with the worship of the bhumandala (the five natural elements: earth, water, fire, air, ether)
A small, circular, open‑air (hypaethral) sandstone structure, approximately 25–30 feet in diameter and about 8 feet tall, making it one of the smallest among the surviving yogini temples.
60‑64 niches line the inner wall, initially meant to house all 64 Yogini idols. Currently, around 60 survive; one is missing and possibly taken elsewhere
At the centre stands a Chandi Mandap (small square pavilion) with a statue of Goddess Kali, depicted standing on a human head, symbolising Shakti’s victory.
The Chausathi Yogini Mahotsav, an annual cultural festival, is held every year from 23–25 December. Hosted by Nrutya Prativa in collaboration with Odisha Tourism, it features classical dance and music performances.