Chausath Yogini Temple - Hirapur

About Chausath Yogini Temple - Hirapur

Chausath Yogini Temple is an ancient and unique tantric site located about 20 km from Bhubaneswar in Hirapur, Odisha. This temple is an excellent example of Indian architecture and Tantric traditions. The temple is circular and built under an open sky, which makes it different from other traditional Kalinga style temples. The walls of the temple have 64 niches, each of which has a yogini idol installed. The main sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Goddess Mahamaya, standing on the head of a demon. Surrounding the sanctum sanctorum is the Chandi Mandapa, in which four Yoginis and four Bhairavas are seated. The temple complex also has a small Shiva temple 'Sankateswara' and a sacred reservoir 'Pushkarini'. The temple is believed to have been built by Queen Hiradevi of the Brahma dynasty in the 9th century. The temple was damaged by Muslim invaders in the 16th century. In 1953, historian Kedarnath Mahapatra discovered the temple and restored it. Every year from 23rd to 25th December the 'Chausath Yogini Mahotsav' is celebrated, with traditional dance and musical performances of Odisha. This festival enlivens the temple premises and attracts devotees from far and wide. It is believed that this temple was built in the 9th century by Rani Hiradevi of Brahma dynasty. A 16th century Muslim general named 'Kalapahar' also attacked this temple and broke the idols. He is known as the destroyer of Puri and Konark temples. Chasath Yogini Mahotsav is held every year between 23rd and 25th December. During this Odissi dance and music are performed on a stage outside the temple. Special rituals are held on the occasion of Navratri and Mahashivratri. The temple is small and round, with a diameter of only 25 feet. It is the smallest temple among the sixty four yogini temples. The entrance to the temple is narrow and low in height. Its architecture has little resemblance to other temples. Local sandstone has been used for its construction. Black granite stone has been used to make the idols. Goddess images are installed in each of the cavities and chambers of the circular walls. Of the 64 goddess idols, 56 still survive. An idol of Maa Kali is located in the center of the room standing on top of a human head. It is also known as "Chandi Mandap". The exterior walls are carved with figures of gatekeepers Jai and Vijay. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya (Chandi Devi) and 64 yoginis and is set amidst lush green fields. Locals call it "Mahamaya Temple". This temple is open from 6 am to 4 pm. Aarti is performed on the eve of the closing of the temple.

Read More

Temple Timings and Details

  • Clock Darshan Timings

    6:00 AM to 7:00 PM

  • Clock Aarti Timings Evening Aarti:- 06:00 PM 
  • T Shirt Dress Code Traditional and Formal clothing
  • Camera Photography Not allowed
  • Prasad Image Prasad Not available

Accommodation Near Chausath Yogini Temple - Hirapur

Temple Location

App Banner