Balasore

Balasore: Historical Town with Scenic Temples and Beaches

Balasore, located in northern Odisha, is a city rich in history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Known for its role in India's missile testing programs (home to the Integrated Test Range), Balasore is also famous for its temples, peaceful beaches, and vibrant culture. The city offers a blend of divine destinations and coastal serenity, making it a unique place for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Must-Visit Places:
Bhudharchandi Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Bhudharchandi, this ancient temple is a prime center of Shakti worship in Balasore.
Panchalingeswar Temple: A scenic hilltop temple where five Shiva Lingas are worshipped amidst a stream flowing over them.
Chandipur Beach: A magical beach where the sea recedes up to 5 kilometers during low tide, revealing vast stretches of sand and sea creatures.
When to Visit:

The best time to visit Balasore is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for temple visits, picnics, and beach outings.

About Balasore

Balasore is a historic and cultural town with religious, scientific, and coastal importance. Besides being a key defense and missile testing area (DRDO), the region boasts several ancient temples and scenic locations. Pilgrims visit Balasore to worship deities like Lord Shiva and Goddess Chandika, while nature lovers enjoy its serene beaches and hills. The town is well-connected by road and rail, making it an accessible pilgrimage and tourist destination in Odisha.

Bhudharchandi Temple

Location: Bhograi, Balasore District
Description: This is a highly revered Shakti Peetha in Balasore, dedicated to Goddess Bhudharchandi. It attracts thousands of devotees during the Navratri festival. The temple's architecture and spiritual atmosphere make it a must-visit for pilgrims.

Panchalingeswar Temple

Location: Nilagiri Hills, around 30 km from Balasore town
Description: This temple is located on a hilltop, where five Shiva Lingas are naturally bathed by a stream flowing over them. The climb to the temple through a forested path adds adventure to the spiritual journey. The surroundings offer beautiful views and serenity.

Chandipur Beach

Location: 16 km from Balasore town
Description: Famous for its vanishing sea phenomenon, Chandipur is one of the few beaches in the world where the sea retreats for kilometers during low tide. Visitors can walk deep into the seabed, explore crabs and shells, and enjoy the calm atmosphere. It is ideal for family trips and spiritual retreats alike.

Emami Jagannath Temple

Location: Balasore town outskirts
Description: A newly built and beautifully designed temple complex dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The temple resembles the Puri Jagannath Temple and has become a key attraction in Balasore.

Khulia Hanuman Temple

Location: Near Chandipur Road
Description: A peaceful and sacred temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is popular among locals for fulfilling wishes and is especially visited on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Jagannath Temple (Remuna)

Location: Remuna, around 9 km from Balasore
Description: This ancient and sacred temple is famous for Khira Bhoga and is associated with Lord Jagannath. The temple is historically linked with the saint Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Devotees from across Odisha come here to seek blessings and enjoy the prasadam.