Emami Jagannath Temple Balasore History, Architecture, Timings, Festivals, and Distance

The Emami Jagannath Temple is a lovely Hindu temple located in Balasore. The temple is 12 kilometers away from the town of Baleswar, spread across a vast area of about 12 acres, and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. The temple is pretty new, having been built in 2009 by the Emami Group, a large corporation based in Kolkata, as part of their efforts to give back to society.

The temple’s architecture is awe-inspiring, with a central dome and four smaller domes at the corners. The temple is painted in bright colors and adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. It’s a sight to behold and attracts many tourists and devotees alike.

In this article, we will look at Emami Jagannath Temple Balasore History, Architecture, Timings, Festivals, and Distance.

Consider reading: 20 Famous Temples in Odisha

Emami Jagannath Temple Timings

Temple Google map location: Click here

Emami Jagannath Temple Photos

How to reach Emami Jagannath Temple

The Emami Jagannath Temple is located in Balasore District. Here are a few ways to reach the temple:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Balasore is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is about 200 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Balasore.
2. By Train: Balasore has its railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
3. By Road: Balasore is well-connected to major cities in Odisha and neighbouring states by road. There are several buses and taxis available from nearby cities like Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, and Cuttack to reach Balasore. You can also drive to Balasore from nearby cities if you have your vehicle.

Once you reach Balasore, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the Emami Jagannath Temple, which is located in the heart of the town. The temple is easily accessible and well-marked, so you should have no trouble finding it.

Things to Do at Emami Jagannath Temple

The Emami Jagannath Temple in Balasore, Odisha, is a significant pilgrimage site and a popular tourist destination. Here are a few things you can do while visiting the temple:

1. Seek Blessings: The primary purpose of the temple is to seek blessings from Lord Jagannath, so you can offer your prayers, perform a puja or participate in the aarti.
2. Explore the Temple Architecture: The temple is built-in traditional Kalinga-style architecture, which is characterized by intricate stone carvings and designs. You can explore the temple architecture and learn more about the traditional Odisha style of temple construction.
3. Visit Other Temples: There are several other temples in Balasore worth visiting, including the Bhudara Chandi temple, Panchalingeswar temple, and Khirochora Gopinath temple. You can plan a temple-hopping tour and explore the rich culture and heritage of the region.
4. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Balasore is known for its delicious street food and traditional Odisha cuisine. You can try out local delicacies like Dahibara Aludum, Chhena Gaja, and Machha Bhaja.
5. Shop for Souvenirs: The temple complex has several small shops selling souvenirs like Lord Jagannath idols, conch shells, and other religious items. You can shop for souvenirs to take back home as a memory of your visit to the temple.

Festivals Celebrated at Emami Jagannath Temple

The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including:

1. Rath Yatra: Rath Yatra is the most significant festival celebrated at the Emami Jagannath Temple. It is held every year during the month of June or July and involves the ceremonial procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra in chariots. The festival attracts thousands of devotees from all over the country and is a grand spectacle to behold.
2. Snana Yatra: Snana Yatra is another important festival celebrated at the Emami Jagannath Temple. It is held on the full moon day in the month of Jyestha (May-June) and involves the ceremonial bathing of the deities. After the ritual bath, the idols are kept away from public view for a period of 15 days.
3. Chandan Yatra: Chandan Yatra is a month-long festival celebrated at the Emami Jagannath Temple. It is held during the months of April-May and involves the ceremonial procession of the deities on boats in the nearby pond.
4. Kartik Purnima: Kartik Purnima is another festival celebrated with great fervour at the Emami Jagannath Temple. It is held on the full moon day in the month of Kartik (October-November) and involves the lighting of lamps and offering of prayers to Lord Jagannath.
5. Janmashtami: Janmashtami is the birthday celebration of Lord Krishna, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Emami Jagannath Temple. The temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, and devotees offer prayers and perform aarti.

These festivals offer a unique cultural experience and provide an opportunity for devotees to seek blessings and connect with the divine.

FAQs on Emami Jagannath Temple