The Taratarini Temple, one of the four holy Adi Shaktipeethas in India, is located at the bank of River Rushikulya near Brahmapur city in Ganjam District, Odisha. It’s an abode to twin goddesses Tara and Tarini who are venerated here as well as Goddess Taratarini whose breasts fell on this Kumari hills shrine also known as ‘Breast Shrine’ or Kalyani Dham.
According to puranic tradition, a Brahmin by the name of Vasu Praharaja found himself in mourning due to the mysterious disappearance of his two wards Tara and Tarini. In a dream that night, they revealed themselves as incarnations of Adi Shakti Tara and Tarini; conveying their request for him to renovate the temple in devotion and worship of them. Feeling inspired by this vision, he dedicated himself earnestly towards fulfilling it.
Climb 999 steps to reach the Taratarini temple, nestled atop Purnagiri Hill. This 17th-century structure is built in Rekha style architecture and serves as a holy site to many devotees who honor Goddess Taratarini, patron deity of Kalinga Kingdom. The Rushikalyani River also flows at its base—an elder sister of India’s revered Ganges river.
Towering idols of Tara and Tarini grace households in Southern Odisha, with their human faces crafted from stone and adorned by shimmering gold, silver jewels and precious stones. The deities are deeply venerated as the presiding forces governing these homes.
The temple architecture is of Rekha style, and the area surrounding it – a wild life sanctuary with tall trees and plants in abundance – provides an awe-inspiring atmosphere. The outer walls are constructed from orange and white stones, granting shadows to its visitors. An entrance appears at the bottom of a grand staircase that ascends right up to this breathtaking temple.
There is no better time to visit Tara Tarini temple than in the month of Chaitra. Every Tuesday, an extravagant fair is held here that attracts numerous devotees wishing for their desires to be granted by the Goddess. In addition, many families come during this period with a newly 1-year-old child for its first hair shave—a traditional local custom offering thanks and blessing from the Gods.
By Air
The Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar is the closest airport to Tara Tarini Temple, situated 180 kilometers away. You can easily reach this iconic temple by taking a local bus or cab ride.
By Train
The Nearest Railway Station to this temple is Harichandanpur Railway Station which is located at a distance of about 17 KM and Kendujhargarh Railway Station which is located at a distance of about 50 Km from this temple. You can easily reach from here by taking local bus or taxi.
By Road
This temple is located at the distance of 80 KM from Bhubaneshwar and 50 KM from Dist. Headquarters Keonjhar. The roads to this temple are well connected with these cities. You can also easily reach this temple by your own car or by bus from any part of the country.
