Harishankar Temple, Balangir – Odisha

Harishankar Temple is one of Odisha's most serene and spiritually significant destinations, nestled amidst the lush Gandhamardhan Hills in Balangir district. It holds a unique place in Hindu devotion for combining the worship of both Lord Vishnu (Hari) and Lord Shiva (Shankar) in one sacred space. Surrounded by natural springs, dense forests, and waterfalls, the temple offers both religious significance and scenic beauty, attracting pilgrims, nature lovers, and trekkers alike.

Temple About

Harishankar Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to both Lord Vishnu (Hari) and Lord Shiva (Shankar), located on the southern slope of the Gandhamardhan hills in Balangir district, Odisha.

Temple Description

Harishankar Temple uniquely blends Vaishnavite and Shaivite traditions, symbolizing religious harmony. The temple is set amidst lush forests and hills, offering a peaceful and scenic spiritual retreat. A perennial stream flows near the temple, forming small waterfalls and natural bathing pools, enhancing its natural beauty.

Temple Specialty

Dual worship of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva in a single sanctum.

Surrounded by Gandhamardhan Hills, rich in medicinal plants and biodiversity.

Natural springs and waterfalls near the temple enhance the spiritual and environmental appeal.

Temple Address

Harishankar Temple, Gandhamardan Hills, Harishankar Road, Balangir District, Odisha – 767038, India.

Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)

20.8490° N, 82.9984° E

Temple Timings

Opening Time: 6:00 AM

Closing Time: 8:00 PM

(Timings may vary during festivals)

Temple Sevas

Daily Pujas

Rudrabhishekam and Vishnu Sahasranama Archana

Special rituals during Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima, and Makar Sankranti

Traveling Facilities

Accessible via road, rail, and air (via Bhubaneswar or Raipur)

Local taxis and buses are available from nearby towns like Balangir and Patnagarh

Food Facilities

Basic vegetarian food stalls are available near the temple

Pilgrims are advised to carry food or use nearby eateries in towns

Stay Facilities

Harishankar Panthasala (Tourist Lodge) near the temple

Lodges and budget hotels in Balangir, Patnagarh, and Bargarh

Nearby Railway Station

Balangir Railway Station – approx. 81 km

Nearby Airport

Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur – approx. 170 km

Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar – approx. 330 km

Nearby Bus Station

Patnagarh Bus Stand – approx. 35 km

Balangir Bus Stand – approx. 80 km

Bus Routes to Temple

Buses run from Balangir, Bargarh, Sambalpur, and Bhubaneswar to Harishankar via Patnagarh

Train Routes to Temple

Trains to Balangir Railway Station from major cities like Bhubaneswar, Raipur, Sambalpur

From Balangir, taxis or buses take you to Harishankar (about 2.5 hours)

Airways to Temple

Fly to Raipur or Bhubaneswar, then take road or rail transport to Balangir, and proceed to Harishankar by bus/taxi

Nearby Cities to Temple

Balangir

Bargarh

Sambalpur

Raipur (Chhattisgarh)

Bhubaneswar

Nearby Visiting Temples and Places

Nrusimhanath Temple (on the opposite side of Gandhamardan hills)

Chaldhar Waterfalls

Yogimath Caves

Patnagarh Fort

Harisankar Wildlife Sanctuary

Preferable Visiting Season

October to February – Pleasant weather for sightseeing

Festive times like Shivaratri and Kartik Purnima are also spiritually enriching

Shopping Famous For

Handicrafts from Patnagarh and Balangir

Sambalpuri sarees and textiles

Local herbal products from Gandhamardhan hills

A visit to Harishankar Temple is more than just a pilgrimage it is a harmonious blend of spirituality, nature, and culture. Whether you're drawn by its divine dual deity worship, the tranquil environment of the Gandhamardhan Hills, or the surrounding natural wonders, Harishankar offers a rejuvenating and memorable experience for every traveler. Perfect for both devotees and explorers, it stands as a gem in the spiritual and natural heritage of Odisha.