Situated in the coastline of Odisha, Puri is one of the favourite destinations of all Odia people and people from other parts of the world. Puri is one of the major dams people perform pilgrimage to in India. The Jagannath temple here is world famous and attracts devotees from all around the world who come here with hopes and beliefs to seek blessings from the Lord of the Universe, Mahaprabhu Jagannath. The long sea beach, its delicious seafood, and the traditional dresses are the main highlights of Puri. Siruli Mahavir Temple Puri is one of the important temples here in Puri. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman with long roots of history and culture associated with it, this place is of immense significance to the local people and is considered sacred. Explore the rich culture of Puri by visiting this unique temple.
Significance Of Siruli Mahavir Temple
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Siruli Mahavir temple is dedicated to Bajrangbali, the most powerful of all, Lord Hanuman. The speciality is that the right eye of the idol is made to look in the direction of Lanka, which once upon a time was the kingdom of Ravana, and the left eye of the idol is made to look in the direction of the Neela Chakra of Jagannath temple. Lord Hanuman is assumed to be protecting the whole village of Siruli as well as Puri. There are many tales associated with the building of this temple. Some believe that after defeating Ravana when Lord Sri Ram returned back to his kingdom and ascended the throne, Lord Hanuman was on a pilgrimage to Puri. While Hanuman was returning from Puri, he saw a pond full of lotus flowers and wanted to offer his prayers in that exact particular place and that is where Siruli Mahavir temple is situated.
Others are of the view that during the construction of the Jagannath temple, lord Hanuman was asked to bring a rare herb. While bringing the rare herb he had to overcome too many obstacles. During his journey, he halted at a place to regain his strength. This temple is believed to have been constructed in that place. This temple gives a sense of peace and devotion once you enter inside. The idol of Lord Hanuman is made to hold a mountain in one of his hands demonstrating his power and strength to overcome any obstacle. It is believed that Angabhima Deva-III who is also known as the Ganga ruler of Odisha, built this temple. This temple has 4 main structures; Vimana (the main hall), Jagamohana (the assembly hall for people to sit and meditate), Nata Mandapa (dancing hall for all the cultural events), and the Bhoga Mandapa ( where the prasad is offered and distributed).
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Entry Fees And Rules
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For all the devotees who seek blessings and have immense faith in Lord Hanuman, you would be very happy to know that there are no entry fees for entering the temple. It is accessible to all the visitors and devotees for free of cost.
As this is a place of religious importance, wearing decent clothes is a requirement. Shoes are not permitted inside, so you must take off your shoes outside the temple before entering it. Littering or damaging any property within the temple premises is strictly prohibited. While visiting the temple, it is suggested to watch the Bhajan and Aarti sessions to have a more divine feeling. During the aarti, the temple echoes the chants of everyone making the place even more vibrant. Photography is generally allowed.
Activities To Do In Siruli Mahavir Temple
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Photography: Visitors can capture the beauty of the place into their cameras, and click pictures of the magnificent temple, the idol of Lord Hanuman and the detailed carvings of the walls.
Connecting with the Locals: You can also interact with the locals of Siruli village and find out more about the culture of Odisha along with the mythological significance of Siruli Mahavir and Lord Jagannath.
Bhajans and aarti: While visiting this place, you can witness the aarti and bhajans sung by the priests and the locals in a uniform manner. The prayers chanted by everyone echo through the walls of the temple and make the place even more alive and vibrant.
Prasad and local cuisines: After a long tiring journey, you can please your stomach with some delicious Prasad in the temple. You can also explore the local cuisines like Pakhala (an impoverished version of curd rice, the staple food of almost everyone), Chenna poda (the favourite sweet dish of Odia people), and many more here.
Visiting Nearby Tourist Attractions: While you are here, you can also visit some nearby tourist places such as Jagannath temple, Puri beach, Chilika Lake, Konark temple, Sakhigopala temple etc. You can explore the variety of seafood near the sea beach while enjoying the pleasant view of the shores. You can also learn about the deep-rooted cultures of this place by visiting the Konark temple and other nearby temples, each with its own speciality.
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Locations And Best Time To Visit
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This temple is located in the sacred land of Puri. It is situated 75 kilometres from the main city of Bhubaneswar and 33 kilometres from the town of Puri. You can reach this place by road, rail or airways. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, approximately 60 kilometres from the temple. Puri Bus Stand is within close proximity of 21 kilometres from the temple. This temple remains open from 4:30 am in the morning till 1:00 pm in the afternoon. It again opens from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Although this place stays open in all the seasons, you can witness the real charm of this place in winter during the months of October to March during the cooler months. Winters are a great time to visit this place and witness the real beauty of the temple, especially in the evening. The climate is pleasant and cool, so you can feel comfortable. The time during the annual festival of Ram Navami is also a great time to visit, you can witness the festive lights and colourful charm of this place. Festivals like Makarsankranti, Hanuman Jayanti, and Dola Purnima are also celebrated with much happiness and ceremonies.
Further Read: Resorts Near Bhubaneswar
Odisha is the hub of temples, and its beautiful culture and heritage are reflected in each monument you visit. Be it a family vacation, a trip with friends, a solo trip, a trip for adventure and leisure or peace and spirituality, Odisha offers you all these and many more. We provided all the details you need to know if you are planning a trip to Siruli Mahavir Temple Puri. Explore more on your next trip to Odisha. So, what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Siruli Mahavir Temple Puri
How much money do we have to pay to visit this place? Are there any entrance fees?
For all the devotees who seek blessings and have immense faith in Lord Hanuman, you would be very happy to know that there are no entry fees to enter the temple. It is accessible to all the visitors and devotees for free of cost.
What are some tourist places that I can visit nearby?
While you are here, you can also visit some nearby tourist places such as Jagannath temple, Puri Beach, Chilika Lake, Konark temple, Sakhigopal Temple etc. Since this place is near the sea, you can experience and enjoy the variety of seafood available nearby and have the day’s fresh catch. Each of the temples nearby has its own speciality and you can learn about the culture and traditions by visiting these temples.
What is the significance of Siruli Mahavir temple?
Siruli Mahavir temple is dedicated to Bajrangbali, the most powerful of all, Lord Hanuman. The speciality is that the right eye of the idol is made to look in the direction of Lanka, which once upon a time was the kingdom of Ravana, and the left eye of the idol is made to look in the direction of the Neela Chakra of Jagannath temple. Lord Hanuman is assumed to be protecting the whole village of Siruli as well as Puri.
What is the architecture like inside this temple?
This temple has 4 main structures; Vimana (the main hall), Jagamohana (the assembly hall for people to sit and meditate), Nata Mandapa (dancing hall for all the cultural events), and the Bhoga Mandapa ( where the prasad is offered and distributed). The walls of the temple are carved with minute details of Hindu scriptures. The architecture of this temple is the evidence of old tradition and heritage of Odisha and ancient Indian designs.
Is Prasad available for visitors here?
Yes, After a long tiring journey, you can please your stomach with some delicious prasad in the temple. You can have Prasad after the aarti and in the afternoon.
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