Ramachandi temple stands by the side of Konark Puri Marine Drive to the southwest of Konark at the confluence of the river Kusabhadra and the sea. The temple is located 7 km before the Konark sun temple on the Marine Drive road from Puri to Konark. Maa Ramachandi is the presiding deity of this place known as Maa Chandi. Maa Chandi is seated on a Lotus flower in a small temple half-hidden by sand mounds. Konark Sun temple is only 8 km distance from Maa Ramachandi temple.
Goddess Maa Ramachandi is the presiding deity of Arka Kshetra, Konark. She is one of the Ashtachandi Temples in Odisha, holding great religious and cultural significance. The temple is beautifully located at the confluence of the Puri-Konark beach, the highway, the sea, and the river, making it a scenic and spiritual retreat. Like other major Shakti Pithas of Odisha, Dussehra is celebrated with great devotion at the temple. Throughout the year, several festivals take place at Maa Ramachandi’s shrine, including Megha Saptami, Sola Puja, and Handibhanga, drawing devotees from far and wide.
Besides being a revered Shakti Pitha, the Ramachandi Temple is a popular picnic spot, attracting visitors with its picturesque seashore and tranquil surroundings. Behind the temple flows the Kushabhadra River, where tourists can enjoy boating and take in the serene natural beauty. Due to its religious importance and breathtaking location, Ramachandi Temple remains one of the most visited tourist destinations in the Puri District.
History of Maa Ramachandi
According to legend, Goddess Ramachandi, an incarnation of Maa Durga, was the guardian deity of the Konark Sun Temple. It is believed that during the 16th century, when Kalapahad, a notorious general of the Bengal Sultanate, attacked and attempted to destroy the Konark Sun Temple, Goddess Ramachandi intervened to protect it. She is said to have moved from the Sun Temple to the present location, settling by the Kushabhadra River to continue her divine presence.
Useful Travel Information
- The beach is a peaceful, unspoiled beach lined by tall palms, with silver sands, gentle waves, and calmer waters due to the river mouth setting.
- Swimming and boating (traditional and motor boats) are perfect in the calm coastal currents.
- October to March, offering pleasant weather and ideal conditions for sightseeing and water sports.
- Basic facilities like restrooms, snack shops, and picnic benches are available near the beach.
- There is a little parking fee of ₹10 per bike and ₹30 per car.
- The Odisha government is establishing a national scuba diving training centre at Ramachandi under OSWALI.
- Ramachandi Sea Beach is a hidden gem offering a serene, spiritual, and scenic escape. With opportunities for beach relaxation, water activities, cultural experiences, and day trips to iconic temples and turtle beaches, it promises a well-rounded visit.
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