Sikhar Chandi Temple is located on top of a hill in the Patia area within the city of Bhubaneswar. Maa Shikharchandi is worshipped in a temple on this hill, a form of the divine mother, and is a significant spiritual and cultural landmark. It is said to be associated with the Yogini culture. Interestingly, the regular Pujak of the Sikharchandi is a non-Brahmin who comes daily from a nearby village down the hill and leaves the temple by evening. It appears to be contemporaneous with the Chausathi Yogini temple of Hirapur. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the city from the temple premises, especially after the sunset provides a pleasant sight to the viewers. Shikhar Chandi Temple is a tourist attraction in Bhubaneswar, Khordha.
History of Maa Sikhar Chandi
According to legend, Lord Shri Ram, along with Lakshmana and Goddess Sita, came to this place during his Banabasa. On Lakshmana’s bow, the image of Maa was drawn, and there Maa Sikharchandi appeared. From that day Maa Sikharchanidi was worshipped as Laxhman Chandi, then a temple was built here by King Patiya; the temple is known as Sikharchandi as it is on the top of the hill. Nandankanan Zoological Park is only 6 km from Sikharchandi. Sikhar Chandi Mandir is a famous temple and a good picnic spot in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The temple is popular among devotees who come to seek blessings, especially during festivals like Durga Puja and Navaratri, when special rituals and celebrations are held. Additionally, the site attracts visitors and trekkers due to its scenic beauty and peaceful ambience. The temple is an important pilgrimage site, and the serene location adds to its spiritual ambience.
Useful Travel Information
- The temple holds cultural significance for the local communities and is associated with tantric worship practices.
- The name “Sikharchandi” comes from two words: “Sikhar,” meaning peak, and “Chandi,” referring to the goddess. The location on a hilltop signifies the divine presence in a higher realm.
- The temple structure is simple yet typical of ancient Odisha temple architecture, with a tower (Shikhara) and sanctum sanctorum.
- The view from the hill provides an excellent panorama of Bhubaneswar city, the Chandaka forest, and the surrounding landscape. This scenic environment makes the temple a place not only for devotion but also for nature lovers and trekkers.
- The short trek to the temple offers views of the Chandaka Forest, a sanctuary known for its wildlife, including elephants, and is a great place for bird-watching.
- The temple is located about 15 km distance from Bhubaneswar city centre and can be reached easily via Nandankanan road. Autorickshaws and taxis are available from the city to reach the foothills of Sikharchandi.
- A short hike or drive can take visitors to the temple on top of the hill.
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