Kakatpur Mangala Temple

Kakatpur Mangala Temple stands on the eastern bank of river Prachi in Puri district, featuring traditional Kalinga architectural elements and stone carvings. The shrine follows the typical Odia temple layout with a central garbhagriha and an outer prayer hall supported by carved pillars.

Construction dates back to 1548 when local Zamindar Panchanan Mitra Roychudamoni established the structure to honor Goddess Mangala. The site later underwent several renovations under different rulers and patrons, preserving the original design.

The shrine holds the Jhamu Yatra festival during the month of Vaisakh, where devotees walk barefoot over burning coals while carrying water from river Prachi. This procession combines physical trial with spiritual devotion and draws participants from across the region.

Visitors can reach the shrine by road from Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Cuttack, with the nearest railway stations located in Bhubaneswar and Puri. Early morning or late afternoon visits work best when the sun is less strong and ceremonies take place.

Inside the shrine, a solid stone bed shows signs of wear, which locals attribute to Goddess Mangala resting there after her daily tours of the universe. Priests place flowers and oil on this stone bed daily, as if preparing an ordinary sleeping space.

Location: Puri district

GPS coordinates: 19.99992,86.19479

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28