Bhattarika Temple is one of Odisha’s most prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites, located in Sasanga village, Tehsil Baramba (previously Athgarh), Cuttack district, Odisha, India, on the bank of the Mahanadi River. It is dedicated to Maa Bhattarika, a Hindu goddess revered as a manifestation of Shakti. Parashurama, facing imminent loss at the hands of Saharsrajuna, appealed to Durga, who appeared on this site, to transfer her divine might to his aid, according to Puranic legend. The Bhattarika Temple is thought to have been built between the sixth and sixteenth centuries A.C.
It holds great religious significance for the people of Odisha because of the various mythological stories associated with it. Pana Sankranti in Chaitra (April), Akshaya Trutiya in Baisakh (May), and Dussehra are the major festivals celebrated here (October). During the festive months, thousands of pilgrims flock to this auspicious temple. There is a rickety stairway leading to the top of the hill. It’s like a mini-trek to the peak, with small temples and caves along the way. One cave in particular, with a picture of Lord Hanuman, is well worth a visit. The Odisha tourism department did an excellent job in constructing designated sheds on top of the hill. When one stands in front of the breathtaking view, one has the impression of being as tall as the surrounding mountains, with the river valley rolling beneath one’s feet. It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly what makes the place so appealing. It is certain to leave an everlasting impact on your mind, whether it is the thunderous roar of the enormous river vibrating through the valley, the sweeping views of the distant mountain range, or the wonderful tales surrounding this area.
