Uttara Chandi Temple, Athagarh, Cuttack

Post category:Cuttack / Temples

The Uttara Chandi Temple is situated in a cave on a hill near Athagarh, approximately 40 km from Cuttack town and 50 km from Bhubaneswar. Maa Uttara Chandi is worshipped in the form of Vaishnavi Narayani and is the direct goddess of the Kali Yuga. The presiding deity of the temple is Maa Uttara Chandi, a powerful manifestation of Goddess Durga. She is believed to be the protector of the region and is worshipped as a form of Shakti. Devotees believe Maa Uttara Chandi fulfils the wishes of her devotees and protects them from evil forces. The temple showcases traditional Odia temple architecture, with beautifully carved stone walls and a sanctum that houses the idol of Maa Uttarachandi

Useful Temple Information

The temple is a prominent Shakti Peetha in this area and draws a large number of devotees throughout the year, especially during Durga Puja, Navaratri, and Dussehra. Durga Puja is performed twice a year in this temple, once on Sharadiya and the other on Basantik. Only dry food is offered to the Uttara Chandi, while non-vegetarian or cooked food is not allowed; additionally, Sankhudi food is specifically provided on Amavasya and Sankranti. According to the temple priest, the goddess talks with the temple purohit on Amavasya, Purnima, and Sankranti. Every Saturday and Tuesday is the main day of the temple. There is no fee to worship or feast here.

At the foot of the hill, there is a beautiful children’s park and a picnic area. The surroundings are lush and green, making it an ideal spot for spiritual retreats and picnics. The hilltop view provides a mesmerising panorama of the surrounding forests and village. Uttara Chandi Temple is not only a religious destination but also a popular weekend picnic spot for visitors from Cuttack, Athagarh, and nearby towns. The serene environment, greenery, and hilltop view make it a perfect place for family outings and photography. Uttara Chandi Mandir is a tourist attraction near Cuttack, Odisha.