Berhampur Destination

Berhampur: The Silk City of Odisha with Spiritual Charm

Berhampur, popularly known as the "Silk City of Odisha," is a bustling city in southern Odisha, famous for its unique handloom silk sarees (Berhampuri Patta), vibrant culture, and ancient temples. It serves as a major cultural and commercial hub and is a gateway to many revered religious sites. The city combines heritage, art, and devotion, attracting both pilgrims and travelers throughout the year.

Must-Visit Places:
Taratarini Temple: A renowned Shakti Peetha located on the Kumari hills, dedicated to twin goddesses Tara and Tarini. It offers spiritual bliss and panoramic views.
Maa Budhi Thakurani Temple: One of the most worshipped deities of Berhampur, where the grand Budhi Thakurani Jatra festival is celebrated with immense devotion.
Jagannath Temple (Berhampur): A peaceful temple devoted to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, known for its beautiful architecture and local participation in Rath Yatra.
When to Visit:

The best time to explore Berhampur is from October to March when the climate is comfortable for sightseeing and temple visits. Festivals like Budhi Thakurani Jatra offer a culturally rich experience during springtime.

About Berhampur

Berhampur, also called Brahmapur, is one of Odisha’s oldest and culturally rich cities. Famous for its traditional silk sarees, the city thrives on its handloom and small-scale industries. Apart from being a commercial hub, Berhampur is dotted with important temples and spiritual destinations. Its proximity to the Eastern Ghats and Chilika Lake also makes it ideal for nature lovers. The city's religious sites are deeply rooted in mythology and attract thousands of devotees every year. Here are some of the most prominent temples you must visit in Berhampur:

Taratarini Temple

Location: Kumari Hills, 30 km from Berhampur
Description: One of the oldest pilgrimage sites in Odisha, Taratarini Temple is dedicated to the twin sisters Tara and Tarini, regarded as manifestations of Adi Shakti. Perched atop a hill, it provides a scenic view of the Rushikulya River and is most vibrant during the Chaitra Mela (March–April). The temple is accessible via ropeway, steps, or a motorable road.

Maa Budhi Thakurani Temple

Location: Near Big Bazaar Street, Berhampur
Description: This temple is dedicated to the city’s presiding deity, Maa Budhi Thakurani. The biennial Budhi Thakurani Jatra is a grand festival during which the entire city comes alive with processions, rituals, and traditional music. It is one of the most significant cultural events of Berhampur.

Jagannath Temple

Location: Gandhi Nagar, Berhampur
Description: Modeled after the Puri Jagannath Temple, this sacred place houses Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The temple is known for its peaceful environment and annual Rath Yatra, which is celebrated with devotion and fanfare by locals.

Siddha Bhairavi Temple

Location: Ganjam District, near Berhampur
Description: A sacred Shakti shrine believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees. It is located close to the Berhampur Railway Station and attracts pilgrims especially during festivals like Navratri and Dussehra.

Balakumari Temple

Location: Near Chikiti town, around 25 km from Berhampur
Description: Set atop a hill, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Balakumari, considered an incarnation of Durga. Visitors have to climb about 1,240 steps to reach the shrine, making it both a devotional and physical journey. The breathtaking views from the top add to the experience.

Nilakantheswar Temple

Location: Jagannathpur, Berhampur
Description: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a lesser-known but spiritually significant site. Devotees visit especially during Mahashivratri to offer prayers and seek blessings.

Jagannath Temple – Gosaninuagaon

Location: Gosaninuagaon, Berhampur
Description: Another Jagannath temple in the city that draws devotees for daily darshan and during Rath Yatra. It is deeply rooted in the community and serves as a vital religious center for locals.