Alarnath temple is a beautiful temple but it gets overshadowed as we have a very popular temple right here in Puri of Lord Jagannath. But given a chance, this temple will also make you fall in love with it. Your faith will bring you right here at the footsteps of Alarnath temple. People usually hear about Alarnath when someone talks about a time when Lord Jagannath is not seen in the main temple. A time of absence and where devotion quietly moves instead.
This temple is Located a few kilometres inside the city of Puri. This temple holds utmost importance in the eyes of locals and visitors often visit this temple if you’re in the city of Puri. Many locals simply call it Alarnath mandir. Short. Familiar.
The temple lies a few kilometres away from the main city of Puri but not far enough to feel different. Roads soften here, the traffic slows and houses thin out. Alarnath temple puri stands in a calm area, surrounded by open land and old trees. The air is lighter and feels clean and isn’t very crowded. You don’t rush here even if you try.
The Alarnath temple story is tied closely to absence. It is believed that every year, after Snana Yatra, Lord Jagannath falls ill. During this time, known as Anavasara, the deities are not visible in the main temple. There are no darshan available and there are no crowds inside. This is when devotees come to Alarnath.
They believe Lord Jagannath appears here in the form of Lord Alarnath, a form of Vishnu. Although this is not officially announced, locals believe this quietly. For many devotees, this is not a replacement, it is continuity for your faith. This belief is quite old which is passed on through families but not written loudly.
The structure of Alarnath temple is quite simple, with beautiful intricate stone walls. Beautiful open courtyard, the architecture is beautiful. Inside, the idol does not overwhelm you, it waits for you. During Anavasara, it feels as if the time itself has become slow. The people sit around a few of them chant or meditate or just talk to God and think about their faith.
Even outside that period, people come. Less in number and More in silence.Alarnath feels like a pause. Among temples connected to Jagannath culture, Alarnath temple puri holds a special role.
It does not compete with the main temple.It supports it. That is why devotees treat it gently. They do not demand miracles here. They seek presence.
In order to reach the Alarnath Temple you have to reach the town of Puri. From Jagannath Temple area, Alarnath mandir is about 3 to 4 kilometres away. It isn’t that far and you can easily reach it within a few minutes. You can easily take Auto-rickshaws or Taxis or cabs. You can also opt for Buses which are easily available nearby. The road is smooth, there is no trekking or any kind of confusion. Most people visit in the morning, combine it with the main temple, then leave before noon. If visiting during Anavasara, expect more people but don’t worry about it.
