Ramachandi Temple – A Sacred Riverside Gem Among the Top Tourist Attractions in Odisha

Ramachandi-Temple

Nestled between the tranquil Kushabhadra River and the Bay of Bengal, the Ramachandi Temple is one of the most serene and spiritual tourist attractions in Odisha. Dedicated to Goddess Ramachandi, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga, the temple combines mythological charm, natural beauty, and divine energy. Located close to the iconic Konark Sun Temple, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds — a place where spirituality meets the soothing rhythm of nature. For travelers exploring coastal tour places in Odisha, Ramachandi Temple is a hidden jewel waiting to be discovered.

Where Is Ramachandi Temple? (with GPS Coordinates)

Ramachandi-Temple

The Ramachandi Temple is situated about 7–8 km from Konark, on the Puri–Konark Marine Drive, overlooking the mouth of the Kushabhadra River, where it meets the Bay of Bengal.

GPS Coordinates: 19.8576° N, 86.1224° E

This picturesque setting, surrounded by casuarina groves and golden sands, makes it a peaceful tourist spot in Odisha for meditation, photography, and short spiritual getaways. The temple also gives its name to the nearby Ramachandi Beach, known for its scenic sunsets and water sports activities.

Mythological & Historical Significance

According to legend, Goddess Ramachandi is the presiding deity of Konark and is considered more ancient and powerful than even the Sun Temple. Mythology tells that Kalapahad, a general of Bengal Sultan Sulaiman Karrani, attempted to destroy the Sun Temple in the 16th century. When he turned toward Ramachandi Temple, the Goddess disguised herself as a Maidservant, warning him to wait while she fetched the deity’s ornaments. She vanished into the river Kushabhadra, protecting the temple from desecration.

The spot where she disappeared became sacred, and a shrine was later built to honor her divine presence. For locals, Ramachandi Mata symbolizes protection, purity, and courage — and her temple remains one of the most revered places to visit in Odisha, especially among coastal villages and pilgrims visiting Konark.

Architecture

The Ramachandi Temple may not match the grandeur of Konark or Puri, but its simple and elegant design reflects Odisha’s coastal temple traditions. The shrine features a small sanctum (garbhagriha) housing the idol of the Goddess seated on a lotus with eight arms, holding weapons and symbols of divinity.

Built in traditional Kalinga style, the temple is surrounded by a rectangular courtyard and shaded by trees. The river-facing steps and open verandah make it ideal for prayer and meditation. During high tide, the temple’s reflection can be seen glimmering in the Kushabhadra River — a sight that captures the essence of Odisha’s sacred coastal landscape.

What You’ll See & Do at Ramachandi Temple

Visitors to Ramachandi Temple can experience both spiritual peace and natural beauty. The temple is often quiet, allowing you to meditate or simply enjoy the sound of waves in the distance. Early mornings and evenings are especially serene, as locals perform small rituals and offer flowers and coconuts to the Goddess.

Just behind the temple lies Ramachandi Beach, a clean and scenic stretch ideal for walks, photography, and light adventure sports like boating or kayaking on the river mouth. You can also spot migratory birds, fishing boats, and confluence views of the Kushabhadra River meeting the Bay of Bengal.

During Durga Puja and Navaratri, the temple becomes lively with devotional music, lights, and community feasts — giving you a glimpse into authentic coastal Odia traditions.

How to Reach Ramachandi Temple

By Air:

The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar), around 65 km away. You can hire taxis or take a day tour covering Bhubaneswar → Konark → Ramachandi → Puri.

By Train:

The nearest railway stations are Puri (35 km) and Bhubaneswar (65 km). From there, regular taxis and buses connect to Konark and Ramachandi Temple.

By Road:

The temple lies directly on the Puri–Konark Marine Drive Road, one of the most scenic routes in India. It’s easily accessible by car, bike, or bus. The drive offers stunning coastal views and is considered a must-do among tour places in Odisha.

Parking and small food stalls are available near the temple entrance.

Nearby Places to Visit

The area around Ramachandi Temple is filled with remarkable tourist attractions in Odisha. Some must-visit places include:

•Konark Sun Temple (8 km) – UNESCO World Heritage site and architectural marvel.

•Chandrabhaga Beach (5 km) – India’s first Blue Flag beach, perfect for sunrise views.

•Puri Jagannath Temple (35 km) – One of India’s four sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites.

•Raghurajpur Heritage Village (25 km) – Famous for Pattachitra paintings and local crafts.

•Chilika Lake (60 km) – Asia’s largest brackish lagoon, ideal for birdwatching and dolphin tours.

These attractions make the Ramachandi Temple area one of the most versatile and enriching places to visit in Odisha for families, pilgrims, and explorers alike.

Best Time to Visit & Travel Tips

The best time to visit Ramachandi Temple is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm. Monsoon (July–September) brings lush greenery but occasional heavy rainfall. Summers (April–June) can be hot, though early mornings are still peaceful.

Travel Tips:

•Visit during sunrise or sunset for beautiful light and tranquil vibes.

•Combine your trip with Konark Sun Temple and Chandrabhaga Beach.

•Carry hats, water bottles, and sunscreen for daytime visits.

•Avoid swimming near the river mouth due to strong currents.

•Participate respectfully in local rituals if visiting during Navaratri or Durga Puja.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:

Arrive in Bhubaneswar → Drive to Konark → Visit Sun Temple → Evening darshan at Ramachandi Temple → Sunset at Ramachandi Beach → Stay overnight at Konark.

Day 2:

Early morning visit to Chandrabhaga Beach → Breakfast in Konark → Depart for Puri to visit Jagannath Temple → Evening at Puri Beach.

This itinerary offers a perfect mix of heritage, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it an ideal coastal circuit among tourist spots in Odisha.

FAQ – Ramachandi Temple, Odisha

1) Where is Ramachandi Temple located?

On the Puri–Konark Marine Drive (NH-316) at the mouth of the Kushabhadra River, ~5–10 km from Konark Sun Temple (listings vary).  

2) Who is worshipped here?

Goddess Ramachandi (widely regarded as Konark’s presiding deity); some traditions link the shrine to Mayadevi, consort of Surya.  

3) What is the main legend associated with the temple?

When iconoclast Kalapahad came to destroy the shrine, the Goddess—disguised as a maid (maluni)—asked him to wait and vanished into the river, saving the temple.  

4) How far is it from Konark/Puri/Bhubaneswar?

About 5–10 km from Konark, ~35 km from Puri, and ~65 km from Bhubaneswar, all via the coastal Marine Drive route.  

5) What’s nearby?

Ramachandi Beach, Konark Sun Temple, and Chandrabhaga Beach (Blue Flag; sunrise spot) are close by—popular tourist attractions in Odisha.  

6) Are there official timings or an entry fee?

It’s a small active shrine; access is typically daytime and free. Some travel listings mention 10:00 AM–5:00 PM for the temple; verify locally.  

7) Is the area good for picnics and nature views?

Yes—its river-sea confluence setting and casuarina groves make it a popular picnic and photography spot.  

8) What festivals should I know about?

The coastal belt observes Magha Saptami with pre-dawn holy dips at nearby Chandrabhaga before visiting Konark; crowds and rituals spill across Ramachandi’s stretch.  

9) Is swimming recommended here?

Use caution—strong currents are reported along this coast; follow local advisories and avoid deep waters. (Regional advisories reference Chandrabhaga/Ramachandi belt.)  

10) How do I get there without a car?

Frequent buses/taxis run Puri–Konark along Marine Drive; it’s a common stop on Konark + Beach day tours.  

11) What can I combine in one trip?

A classic day plan: Konark Sun Temple → Ramachandi Temple & Beach → Chandrabhaga Beach (sunset/sunrise).  

12) Any practical amenities?

Basic parking/food stalls are available near the temple/beach area; fuller services are in Konark or Puri.

Conclusion

The Ramachandi Temple is more than a spiritual stop — it’s a serene meeting point of divinity and nature. With its riverside charm, coastal legends, and calm surroundings, it represents the soul of Odisha’s sacred coastline. Whether you’re seeking quiet reflection, mythological stories, or scenic beauty, Ramachandi Temple delivers an experience that feels both ancient and alive.

If you’re curating your itinerary of places to visit in Odisha, make sure this riverside temple finds a special place on your list — where devotion flows like the Kushabhadra itself, endless and eternal.

Recommended Tour

Related Blogs