Jharigaon, 18th Nov 2025: The ancient Chandandhara Shaiva Peetha, located under Bada Temera Panchayat of Jharigaon block, is drawing the attention of tourists. Situated deep inside a dense forest, the temple attracts visitors who come to enjoy the waterfall and natural beauty.
In 1964, locals discovered a Shivalinga near a waterfall located about 3 km from Bada Temera Panchayat in the Chandana forest area. Afterwards, a small thatched hut was constructed, and worship began. Because the Shivalinga appeared in the Chandana forest, the place came to be known as Chandandhara Shaiva Peetha and Chandandhara Waterfall.
With the financial support of the then Nabarangpur District Collector Aravind Padhi, contributions from the panchayat residents, local representatives, and the tourism department, the main temple, nearby temples, lighting system, and overall infrastructure have been developed. Despite being located in a dense forest, an attractive temple structure has been built.
A little distance from the Shaiva Peetha is the Goddess Parvati Temple. Devotees must descend 121 steps to reach it, and the temple is situated inside a cave. Similarly, further inside the forest lies the Banadurga Temple, accessible after descending 101 steps and ascending 51 steps. After crossing 31 steps, one reaches the Chandi Temple.
Right in front of the Shaiva Peetha is a large Ganesha Temple. The committee has arranged community feasts (Bhoj-Bhat) for visitors. A park for children and a community hall (Kalyan Mandap) have also been constructed.
The Chandandhara Waterfall, dense forest, and serene environment continue to fascinate tourists throughout the year.
Considering the heavy influx of devotees and tourists expected in December and January, all necessary arrangements have been made, informed committee chairman Rajanikant Pattnaik.
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