Labanagiri Jagannath Temple: Where Nature, History, and Faith Meet

If you ever find yourself on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, craving a place that offers both spiritual calm and natural beauty, Labanagiri Jagannath Temple is one such hidden gem that quietly waits to be discovered. Perched atop the Labanagiri Hill, about 500 feet above sea level, this temple is not just a place of worship, it is a living story shaped by centuries of devotion, legends, and the whispering winds of history.

Labanagiri Jagannath Temple: A rising jewel of tourism attraction in the outskirts of Bhubaneswar

Located around 11 km from Jatni and nearly 19 km from Bhubaneswar, the temple feels far removed from the rush of city life, even though it is so close. The journey itself is soothing, winding through greenery, with cashew forests slowly welcoming you as you ascend the hill.

Currently as of 2026 January this Temple is undergoing massive renovation works, Huge quantity of Laterite stones (Mankada Pathar) are taking shapes and marbles are being spread over the floor making it a modern tourist attraction.

A Sacred Space Above the Plains

The Jagannath Temple at Labanagiri stands tall at approximately 54 feet, commanding a serene presence over the surrounding landscape. Alongside Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Maa Subhadra, the temple complex also houses shrines dedicated to Mahadev (Labaneshwar), Maa Lakshmi, Maa Vimala, and Shri Hanuman. Each deity has a space here, making the hilltop feel like a small but complete spiritual universe.

The Labaneswar Mahadev Temple rises to about 45 feet, while the temples of Maa Lakshmi, Maa Vimala, and Hanuman stand at around 27 feet. Despite their modest height compared to larger temple complexes, there is an undeniable warmth and intimacy to these shrines. Nothing feels rushed or crowded here only calm, devotion, and time moving a little slower.

But nowadays digital influencers are rushing to this place with drones, cameras and shooting vlogs and reels making this place crowded.

Also Read: Potagarh Fort, Ganjam: Where history submerged in the bank of river Rusikulya

Idols Rooted in the Land

One of the most beautiful aspects of this temple is how closely it is connected to the land and its people. The idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Maa Subhadra are crafted from sacred wood brought from nearby villages, keeping alive a tradition deeply rooted in Jagannath culture. In contrast, the idols of Maa Lakshmi, Maa Vimala, and Lord Hanuman are carved from black granite stone sourced from Khiching, known for its historical stone craftsmanship.

This blend of wood and stone reflects Odisha’s spiritual heritage—simple, earthy, and deeply symbolic.

A Temple Older Than Time Itself

According to the temple priest and local belief, Labanagiti Jagannath Temple is more than 1,000 years old. Legends say that during Ashoka’s war, this hill served as a resting place for King Padmanabh. Whether written in history books or preserved through oral traditions, the hill seems to carry memories far older than the structures standing today.

The spiritual importance of the place grew even more intriguing with the story of Lord Mahadev. Locals believe that Mahadev was once buried inside the hill itself. In 2002, the Department of Archaeology excavated the Shiva Linga, confirming long-held beliefs. Since then, Lord Mahadev is worshipped here as Patala Phuta Shiva Linga, a form that feels deeply powerful and mysterious, as if the mountain itself is alive.

Rath Yatra on the Hilltop

Rath Yatra at Labanagiti Jagannath Temple is celebrated with full rituals, following the traditions of Mahaprabhu Jagannath. Though smaller in scale compared to Puri, the devotion here is no less intense. The chariots, the chants, the sound of cymbals echoing across the hill—it all feels personal, almost as if the Lord is among family rather than crowds.

For devotees, witnessing Rath Yatra here feels intimate and pure, untouched by commercialization.

Nature as the Temple’s Guardian

The temple is surrounded by a dense cashew forest, adding to its untouched charm. During certain seasons, the air carries the faint scent of cashew flowers, and the shade of the trees offers comfort to pilgrims climbing the hill. Birds, rustling leaves, and the occasional temple bell create a natural rhythm that feels meditative.

From the Labanagiri Hill View Point, one can witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. As the sun rises, the sky slowly paints itself in shades of orange and gold, revealing views of the Dhauligiri and Gangua rivers flowing quietly below. At sunset, the hill glows with a gentle silence that stays with you long after you leave.

Also Read: Explore Cuttack’s Deer Park: A Hidden Nature Gem

A Living Ashram and Local Faith

Around 23 years ago, villagers built an ashram on the hill, further strengthening its spiritual presence. Even today, local people play an active role in maintaining the temple and preserving its traditions. Their stories, faith, and daily rituals keep the place alive—not as a monument, but as a living center of devotion.

A Quiet Jewel of Khordha

Labanagiri Hill is now slowly gaining recognition as a tourist attraction in Khordha district, Odisha. Yet, it remains refreshingly untouched. There are no loud crowds, no overwhelming commercialization—just a peaceful hill, ancient temples, and faith that feels deeply human.

If you are someone who enjoys places where spirituality blends naturally with history and landscape, Labanagiti Jagannath Temple deserves a place on your journey list. It is not just about seeing a temple; it is about feeling a connection—to the land, to stories whispered by elders, and to a silence that speaks louder than words.

During day time the temple association distributes Prasad (Abadha) which is freshly cooked in the temple premises and offered to Lord Jagannath with a paid price that goes to temple fund. You can get the prasad yourself if you arrive on time.

Sometimes, the most powerful places are not the most famous ones. They are the ones that wait quietly, on a hill, surrounded by forests, watching centuries pass by.