Temple About
The Goddess Annapurna Temple is a center of spiritual devotion where the deity is worshipped as the giver of food and prosperity. Devotees from across Bihar and nearby states visit to offer prayers and participate in various rituals.
Temple Description
Situated in the heart of Ara town, the temple reflects traditional Hindu temple architecture. It is peaceful, yet vibrant, and particularly comes alive during auspicious occasions. It serves as a spiritual hub for the local community.
Temple Speciality
Presiding deity: Maa Annapurna, revered as the goddess of food.
Special focus on Annadaan Seva (donation of food).
Annakoot festival is celebrated grandly.
Belief: No one remains hungry after praying here.
Temple Details
Temple Address: Near Maharaja College, Ara, Bhojpur, Bihar – 802301
Coordinates: 25.5611° N, 84.6660° E
Temple Timings & Sevas
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Temple Sevas
Daily Aarti & Bhog
Special Pujas on Fridays & Tuesdays
Navratri Celebrations
Annapurna Jayanti Festivities
Devotee-led Annadaan (free meal distribution)
Travel & Amenities
Traveling Facilities
Easily reachable via road, rail, and air.
Autos, rickshaws, and taxis are widely available.
Food Facilities
The temple serves prasadam during major events.
Numerous local eateries nearby offering traditional Bihari cuisine.
Stay Facilities
Lodges, guesthouses, and budget hotels close to the temple.
Notable stays: Hotel Chanakya, Hotel Buddha, local Dharamshalas.
Nearest Transport Hubs
Railway Station: Ara Junction (ARA) – 1.5 km
Airport: Patna Airport (PAT) – ~55 km
Bus Station: Ara Bus Stand – ~2 km
How to Reach
By Bus
Frequent buses from Patna, Buxar, Sasaram, and other regional hubs to Ara.
By Train
Direct trains to Ara Junction from Patna, Buxar, Varanasi, Delhi, and Kolkata.
By Air
Arrive at Patna Airport, take a taxi/bus to Ara (approx. 1.5–2 hours).
Local Attractions
Nearby Cities
Patna
Buxar
Sasaram
Arrah
Nearby Temples & Sites
Veer Kunwar Singh Fort
Mahavir Mandir, Patna
Ram Rekha Ghat
Hanuman Mandir near Ara Railway Station
Dev Sun Temple (near Aurangabad)
Shiv Mandir, Bihiya
Best Time to Visit
October to March – Best weather for pilgrimage and sightseeing.
Navratri season is highly recommended for spiritual vibes and grand rituals.
Shopping & Local Goods
Traditional Mithila paintings
Bihari snacks like Thekua and Litti-Chokha
Local spices and handlooms
Bhojpuri music and DVDs in local markets
The Goddess Annapurna Temple of Ara stands as a beacon of faith, devotion, and nourishment. With a powerful spiritual aura, cultural significance, and heartwarming community service like Annadaan, it is more than just a temple; it's a place where no one leaves empty handed, spiritually or otherwise. A visit to this temple offers not just blessings, but a deeper connection to the tradition and hospitality of Bihar.
