Vimala Temple

Vimala Temple: A Shakti Peetha in the Jagannath Complex

Vimala Temple, also known as Bimala Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Vimala (Bimala), located within the Jagannath Temple complex in Puri. It is considered one of the Shakti Peethas, the most sacred abodes of the Hindu Goddess.

Expectations for Pilgrims

Sacred Prasad: Blessings from Goddess Vimala

Prasad at Vimala Temple typically consists of traditional Odia sweets and savory items offered to the Goddess. What is offered to Lord Jagannath is not considered as Maha Prasad until it is offered to Maa Vimala. It is considered sacred and is believed to carry the blessings of the Goddess.

Prasad / Prasadam :

Note : Prasad is available at the temple counter. The amount and availability depends on daily offerings.

What to Offer: Sacred Contributions to the Divine

Devotees visiting Vimala Temple can offer various items to express their devotion, seek blessings, and participate in the sacred rituals. These offerings are a way to connect with the divine energy of the Goddess.

Devotee's Offerings

Local priests (pandas) can guide you on appropriate offerings for specific rituals or personal prayers. It is customary to offer these items with a pure heart and sincere devotion.

Essential Experiences: Immerse in the Goddess's Grace

Activities:

Sacred Rituals & Pujas: Deepening Your Connection

Vimala Temple is a hub for various pujas and rituals, from daily prayers to special ceremonies during festivals. These ceremonies are central to the spiritual experience, allowing devotees to connect with the divine.

Attending Pujas:

Non Attending Pujas:

Most pujas and offerings can be arranged directly with the numerous pandas (priests) at Vimala Temple. For special large-scale events or specific elaborate pujas, it's advisable to inquire locally or through registered temple committees.

Historical Roots & Profound Meaning: Vimala Temple's Ancient Legacy

Vimala Temple is steeped in Hindu mythology and historical events, making it a pivotal sacred site in India. It is an integral part of the Jagannath Temple complex and one of the Shakti Peethas.

Significance: A Paramount Spiritual Beacon

Vimala Temple stands as a paramount spiritual beacon in Hinduism, drawing millions of devotees seeking enlightenment, blessings, and fulfillment of wishes.

Key Aspects:

• Shakti Peetha Being a Shakti Peetha adds to the temple's significance, as it is revered as one of the holiest shrines dedicated to the goddess.
• Presiding Deity Vimala is the presiding deity of the temple and plays a vital role in the daily rituals and festivals. Without Vimala, the offerings made to Jagannath are incomplete.

Opening Hours

User Review

Total Reviews : 372

• Star Rating :
  Author Name : P jagan
  Review Time : a month ago
  Review : Frequently asked questions and answers about the Shri Vimala Shakti Peetha Temple in Puri: General Information * Q: What is the significance of the Shri Vimala Shakti Peetha Temple? A: It is revered as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, believed to be the place where the navel (Nabhi Khanda) of the goddess Sati fell. It is also considered the consort temple of Lord Jagannath and an essential part of the Puri temple complex. * Q: Where is the Shri Vimala Shakti Peetha Temple located? A: It is situated within the Jagannath Temple complex in Puri, Odisha, India. It is located in the southwestern corner of the inner enclosure. * Q: Who is the presiding deity of the Shri Vimala Shakti Peetha Temple? A: The presiding deity is Goddess Vimala, also known as Bimala Devi. She is considered the Tantric consort of Lord Jagannath. * Q: What is the origin story of the Shakti Peetha? A: Legend says that when Lord Shiva was carrying the burning body of his consort Sati, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshana Chakra to cut her body into 51 pieces, which fell at various places on Earth, each becoming a Shakti Peetha. Puri is where her navel is believed to have fallen. * Q: What are the timings for visiting the Shri Vimala Shakti Peetha Temple? A: The temple timings generally follow the Jagannath Temple schedule, which can vary slightly. It's best to check the current timings at the temple entrance or official temple websites. Typically, it opens in the morning after the Mangala Aarti and closes after the Pahuda Dwara (closing of doors) at night. Deities and Rituals * Q: What is the idol of Goddess Vimala made of? A: The idol of Goddess Vimala is believed to be made of stone. * Q: What are the major rituals performed at the Shri Vimala Shakti Peetha Temple? A: Daily rituals include morning and evening aartis, offering of bhog (sacred food), and special pujas. During festivals, elaborate rituals are performed. * Q: What is the significance of the Bhog offered to Goddess Vimala? A: The Bhog offered to Lord Jagannath is first offered to Goddess Vimala. Only after she has accepted it is it considered "Mahaprasad" and distributed to devotees. * Q: Is animal sacrifice still practiced at the Vimala Temple? A: Historically, animal sacrifice was practiced. However, it is no longer a regular practice. Symbolic offerings might still be part of certain tantric rituals, but open animal sacrifice is generally prohibited within the main temple complex. * Q: How is Goddess Vimala related to Lord Jagannath? A: Goddess Vimala is considered the Tantric consort (Shakti) of Lord Jagannath (Bhairava). Their presence together signifies the complete divine entity. * Q: Can devotees offer special prayers or pujas to Goddess Vimala? A: Yes, devotees can offer special prayers and pujas to Goddess Vimala. You can inquire at the temple office about the different types of pujas and their procedures. Visiting the Temple * Q: Is there a separate entrance to the Vimala Temple? A: No, the Vimala Temple is located within the Jagannath Temple complex, so you need to enter the main temple. * Q: Are there any specific dress codes to be followed while visiting the temple? A: Devotees are expected to dress modestly. Covering shoulders and knees is generally recommended as a sign of respect. * Q: Are photography and videography allowed inside the Vimala Temple? A: Photography and videography are generally prohibited inside the sanctum sanctorum of both the Jagannath Temple and the Vimala Temple. * Q: Are there any facilities for devotees at the temple? A: Basic facilities like drinking water and prasad counters are available within the Jagannath Temple complex. * Q: What is the best time to visit the Shri Vimala Shakti Peetha Temple? A: The temple can be visited throughout the year. However, during major festivals like Navaratri and Durga Puja, the temple witnesses a large number of devotees. The weather in Puri is generally pleasant during the winter months (October to March).
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : bharath kumar
  Review Time : 3 months ago
  Review : Temple has good structure and must visit. Multiple temples around the main temple. Visited during weekday, less crowded. We didn’t take tickets. It requires mostly during festival season. Mobile phone not allowed Must do activities at the temple 1. 22 Steps 2. Eating food in the temple kitchen 3. Nermayal to bring and keep in the house 4. Prasadam Sweets are good must eat 5. Cotton threads Temple located 2.5km away from the puri bus terminal.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Ash AUST_1964
  Review Time : 3 months ago
  Review : Foreingers not allowed. Literally. If you are not an Indian you will not be allowed in. I was with an Indian friend who asked multiple temple police if we heard it right the first time. We did. And it's not a case of following the temple entry rules (no belt, no mobile, no shoes) - it's that you're not wanted. I explained that if we said 'no Indians' in a church in Australia there would be big trouble. We won't be coming to Puri again.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Anita S
  Review Time : a year ago
  Review : I visited puri for darshana of maa Bimala as it is one of the four adishakti peethas. Once you are out of jagannath ji temple on right there is Bimala devi. There is not much rush in the morning, just pray from outside looking at devi instead of getting in the rush near devi as the pandits do not allow you to pray peacefully if you do not buy their stuff and get their blessing. The devi decorated nicely by afternoon. She is beautiful. Ask me for any questions.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : sushil Kumar
  Review Time : a year ago
  Review : The vimla devi temple is available inside the jagannath temple premises. No entry ticket is required. No need of hiring any pandit as such. The crowd will lead you to vimla devi temple as well as many more temples available inside the premises. Do not forget to tie thread for accomplishing your with after oath to leave some fruit for one year as the initial place of worship of Sri jagannath ji. It is said that after your wish is fulfilled the thread tied before shall be untied.