This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the Mahanandi Temple timings, from the early morning rituals to the closing Ekantha Seva. We’ll cover the various darshan options, the costs associated with different sevas, and the specific times for each activity. Use this information to plan your visit and ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience.
Mahanandi Temple Daily Schedule
The temple opens its doors to devotees early in the morning and remains active until late in the evening, with a short break in the afternoon. Here is a comprehensive schedule of the daily rituals and darshan timings.
Morning Sevas and Darshan (4:30 AM – 1:00 PM)
The day at Mahanandi begins before dawn with sacred rituals that prepare the deity for the day. Devotees can participate in these early morning sevas or opt for various darshan types.
- 4:30 AM – 5:00 AM: The temple opens with the Suprabhatha Seva, a ritual to awaken the deity. The cost for this seva is Rs. 100 per person.
- 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM: This period is dedicated to Sthanika Abhishekam and Bindhe Seva.
- 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM: Devotees can witness the Astavidha Maha Mangala Harathi, a grand offering of lights to the deity, for Rs. 100 per person.
- 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM: General darshan timings are open, with several options available for devotees. Note that these timings are interspersed with specific sevas and darshans as detailed below.
Darshan and Pooja Options (6:30 AM – 12:30 PM):
- Sarva Darshan: Free entry for all devotees. Available from 6:30 AM to 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, and 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM.
- Seeghra Darshan: For a quicker darshan, the ticket cost is Rs. 20 per person.
- Sparsha Darshan: This special darshan allows devotees to touch the main deity. The ticket is Rs. 100 per person.
- Rudrabhishekam: A powerful ritual performed for couples. The cost is Rs. 1000.
- Ksheerabhishekam: Another seva for couples, involving a milk offering. The cost is Rs. 200.
- Mahadhaaseervachana Darshanam: Receive special blessings for Rs. 351.
Special Darshans and Rituals:
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Nijaroopa Darshan, where the deity is seen in its original form without adornments. The ticket costs Rs. 50.
- 11:00 AM Onwards: The temple performs the Nithya Kalyanam (Celestial Wedding) for the deities. The cost to participate is Rs. 1116.
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Another session of Nijaroopa Darshan for Rs. 50.
- 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: The Maha Nivedana, or main food offering to the deity, takes place.
Afternoon Break (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
The temple is closed for a one-hour break. No darshan is available during this time.
Afternoon and Evening Sevas and Darshan (2:00 PM – 9:30 PM)
The temple reopens in the afternoon, offering darshan and poojas until the closing ceremony.
- 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM: The temple reopens for darshan. Options available include Sarva Darshan (Free), Seeghra Darshan (Rs. 20), Sparsa Darshan (Rs. 100), Rudrabhishekam (Rs. 1000), Ksheerabhishekam (Rs. 200), and Mahadhaaseervachana Darshanam (Rs. 351).
- 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: The evening Astavidha Maha Mangala Harathi is performed. The ticket price is Rs. 100.
- 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM: General darshan continues with various options available for devotees during different time slots.
- 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: A final session of Nijaroopa Darshan is available for Rs. 50.
- 9:00 PM – 9:30 PM: The day concludes with the Ekantha Seva, the final ritual where the deity is put to rest.
Darshan Timings at a Glance
For quick reference, here are the main darshan hours at Mahanandi Temple:
- Morning Hours: 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM
- Afternoon Hours: 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Please note that darshan is generally not available after 9:00 PM as the temple prepares for the final closing rituals.
Plan Your Visit
The Mahanandi Temple timings is the first step toward a peaceful and well-organized pilgrimage. By aligning your visit with the specific sevas or darshan you wish to attend, you can ensure a deeply personal and spiritual experience. Remember that timings can sometimes change during festivals or special events, so it’s always a good idea to check for any updates before your trip. May your visit to Mahanandi be blessed and spiritually uplifting.