Jagannath Temple Delhi History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography
Located at
Hauz Khas
Delhi
The Jagannath Temple in Delhi is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Located in the Hauz Khas area, this temple is managed by the Odisha community in Delhi and reflects traditional Oriya architecture.
Jagannath Temple in Delhi is located in the Hauz Khas area of South Delhi. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra. The temple was established in 1967 by the Sree Neelachala Seva Sangha. It showcases beautiful Kalinga-style (Odia) architecture and is built using white marble. The Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) is the temple’s most famous and grand annual celebration. The temple complex includes a flower garden and a Paak Shaala (kitchen) for preparing prasad. It serves as a major spiritual and cultural center for the Odia community in Delhi. Major festivals like Janmashtami, Ram Navami, and Snana Yatra are celebrated here.
The Jagannath Temple located in Hauz Khas, New Delhi, is a well-known Hindu place of worship devoted to Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra. It was founded in 1967 by the Sree Neelachala Seva Sangha and has since become a significant spiritual and cultural center for the Odia community residing in the capital city.
The Jagannath Temple was established on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya in 1967 by Durjyodhan Pradhan and Bhramarabar Pradhan. With support from Sri R.N. Singh Deo, a Member of Parliament at the time, and L.N. Jha, the then Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, land was acquired in Hauz Khas, marking the beginning of construction. The ground floor, dedicated to Mausi Maa, was completed in 1971, while the main sanctum on the first floor reached completion in 1978. The temple’s architectural design was crafted by the Pradhan & Uppal Ghose Company.
Constructed entirely from white marble, the temple showcases the elegance of traditional Kalinga (Odia) architecture. The central shikhara (tower) stands tall above the inner sanctum, complemented by smaller towers over the adjoining halls. Spread across several acres, the temple complex features various elements, including a flower garden devoted to Lord Jagannath and a dedicated kitchen area (Paak Shaala) for preparing offerings.
The temple is widely celebrated for its elaborate Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), which attracts thousands of devotees every year. In addition to this major event, the temple also observes important festivals such as Janmashtami, Ram Navami, and Snana Yatra, all of which are celebrated with devotional rituals, bhajans (spiritual songs), and vibrant cultural programs.
Best Time to Visit
- Ideal Season: October to March (pleasant weather in Delhi)
- Festive Peak:
- Rath Yatra (June/July) – Most vibrant and crowded, offering a grand spiritual experience.
- Janmashtami, Snana Yatra, and Ram Navami are also good times to witness traditional rituals and cultural programs.
Things to Do at Jagannath Temple, Delhi
- Offer Prayers & Seek Blessings
- Worship Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra in the peaceful sanctum.
- Attend Aarti & Rituals
- Daily morning and evening aartis are performed with devotion.
- Participate in special pujas during festivals.
- Explore Temple Architecture
- Admire the white marble structure and Kalinga-style shikharas (towers).
- Take note of the serene design and carvings.
- Stroll Through the Garden
- Visit the flower garden dedicated to Lord Jagannath, ideal for meditation or reflection.
- Visit the Temple Kitchen (Paak Shaala)
- Observe traditional preparation of prasad (sacred food) offered to the deities.
- Join Cultural Events
- Enjoy devotional music, dance performances, and drama during major festivals.
- Experience the Rath Yatra
- If visiting in June/July, don’t miss the grand procession where the deities are taken out on chariots in a colorful and musical parade.
Jagannath temple Delhi nearby attractions Nearby
- Deer Park & Hauz Khas Village – A short walk away perfect for a nature stroll or lunch.
- Lotus Temple & ISKCON Temple – Both spiritual landmarks within 20-30 minutes’ drive.
- Dilli Haat (INA) – Great for shopping handicrafts and trying regional Indian food.
Photography at Jagannath temple
- Open Areas: Visitors are allowed to take photographs in the temples open areas.
- Sanctum Sanctorum: Photography is strictly prohibited inside the sanctum sanctorum, where the main deities are enshrined. This restriction is in place to maintain the sanctity of the sacred space.
- Permission: Its advisable to seek permission from temple authorities before capturing images, especially during religious ceremonies or festivals.
Entry Fee
- Admission: Free for all visitors. The temple welcomes devotees and tourists without any entry charges.
Safety Tips
- Security Checks:
- Be prepared for security checks at the entrance. Metal detectors and bag searches are common, so avoid carrying large bags or items that might cause delays.
- Do not carry sharp objects, large items, or anything that could raise concerns during security checks.
2. Avoid Crowded Areas:
- The temple, especially during festivals, can become crowded. If you have small children or elderly visitors with you, be extra cautious in such environments.
- Stay close to your group to avoid getting separated in the crowd.
3. Respect the Sanctity of the Space:
- Do not touch the idols or sacred offerings without permission. Always follow temple guidelines and instructions from temple authorities.
- Avoid disrupting the religious rituals or making loud noises while prayers are being conducted.
4. Dress Modestly:
- Wearing modest clothing is essential. Avoid wearing revealing clothes like shorts, skirts, or sleeveless tops.
- A traditional dress, such as sarees or salwar kameez for women and dhoti or kurta-pajama for men, is preferred, although its not mandatory.
5. Footwear:
- Remove footwear before entering the temple. There are designated areas where you can leave your shoes.
- Be cautious while walking barefoot, especially on hot days, as the ground may become very hot or uneven.
6. Avoid Carrying Prohibited Items:
- Leather items (belts, wallets, etc.) are not allowed inside the temple. Leave them in the designated shoe storage area or in your vehicle.
- Polythene bags are prohibited in many temples, including Jagannath Temple, due to environmental concerns.
7. Stay Hydrated:
- During summer months, the heat in Delhi can be intense. Carry a water bottle or ensure you hydrate at the temples water stations. Avoid standing in direct sunlight for long periods.
8. Festival Crowds:
- If you are visiting during major festivals like Rath Yatra or Janmashtami, expect larger crowds. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of pickpockets.
- Its advisable to arrive early during such times to avoid the peak rush.
9. Be Mindful of the Environment:
- Do not litter on temple grounds. Dispose of your waste in the designated bins to help maintain the cleanliness and sanctity of the temple environment.
10. Take Care of Your Belongings:
- As with any busy public space, keep an eye on your personal belongings. Its best to avoid carrying valuables like expensive jewelry.
The Jagannath Temple in Hauz Khas, Delhi is well-connected by various modes of transportation. Heres how you can reach the temple:
Address of Jagannath Temple
- Jagannath Temple, Hauz Khas, Delhi 110016
- From Connaught Place: Approx. 30 minutes (7-8 km).
- From India Gate: Approx. 25 minutes (6 km).
- From Airport (IGI): Approx. 20-25 minutes (12-13 km).
If you are traveling by taxi or ride-hailing services (like Uber/Ola), you can directly ask the driver to drop you at Jagannath Temple, Hauz Khas.
By Metro:
- Nearest Metro Station: Hauz Khas Metro Station (on the Yellow Line).
- Once you exit the station, its about a 10-minute walk to the temple.
- Walk towards Hauz Khas Village and follow the signs or ask locals for directions to the temple.
By Bus:
- Several Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses pass through Hauz Khas.
- You can take any bus that goes towards Hauz Khas Village.
- The nearest bus stop is Hauz Khas Bus Stand.
- After getting off, its a short walk to the temple.
People also ask
1. What is the timing of Hauz Khas Jagannath Temple?
Ans. For Summer Months (March to September):
- Temple opens in the morning at 5:00 AM and remains accessible until 12:30 PM.
- Evening hours begin at 4:00 PM and the temple stays open till 11:00 PM.
For Winter Months (October to February):
- The temple starts welcoming devotees from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM in the morning.
- It reopens in the evening from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
2. Jagannath Temple Delhi closing day?
Ans. The Jagannath Temple in Hauz Khas, Delhi, is open seven days a week and does not have a weekly closing day.
3. Jagannath Temple Delhi famous for?
Ans. Jagannath Temple Delhi for Rath Yatra.
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