The Khiching Temple, also known as the Maa Kichakeswari Temple, is a historic Hindu temple located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, India. It is dedicated to Goddess Kichakeswari, a form of Goddess Durga. Here are some key points about the Khiching Temple:
Historical Significance: The Khiching Temple is renowned for its historical and architectural significance. It dates back to the 10th century and is one of the oldest temples in Odisha.
Architecture: The temple showcases remarkable Kalinga-style architecture, characterized by its intricately carved stone walls, impressive spire (shikara), and exquisite sculptures. The temple complex includes a sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha), a jagamohana (assembly hall), and other smaller shrines.
Religious Importance: The temple is an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Goddess Kichakeswari, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. The deity is known for her fierce form.
Festivals: Various festivals and rituals are celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Khiching Temple, with Navratri being one of the most significant ones. During Navratri, the temple witnesses a surge in devotees and visitors.
Location: Khiching is a remote village in Odisha, and the temple is situated amidst serene natural surroundings, adding to its charm.
Archaeological Importance: Besides its religious significance, the temple has also attracted archaeologists and historians due to its ancient inscriptions and artifacts.
Conservation: Efforts have been made to preserve and protect this ancient temple, and it has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Before planning a visit to the Khiching Temple, it's advisable to check for the latest information and any entry restrictions or guidelines, as these may change over time.
If you are visiting Keonjhar for tour then you can also visit this place. Kichakeshwari temple is located in Khiching and is the istadevi of Bhanja Dynasty. Ma Kichakeshwari is a form of Shakti as Durgatinashini. The temple has beautiful carvings on black stone. There is an iron bar which you can carry and it is said to fulfill your wishes.
Khiching is located about 50 km east of Keonjhargarh city 24 km west of Karanjia.There are several villages in the vicinity, including Sukruli, Kesana, Naupana, Kakharupana, Salabana, Viratagada, Kichakagada. Another nearby village is Singda. The major festival in Khiching is Sivarathri, which is celebrated over seven days. The major tourist attraction of Khiching is the Temple Of Maa Kichakeswari. The temple was constructed during the year 920/925. Goddess Kichakeshwari, which was not only ishtadevata and kuladevi of Bhanj dynasty but also the State deity of Princely State of Mayurbhanj ruled by them. The temple suffered in the hand of Vandals. King of Mayurbhanj, Maharaja Pratap Chandra Bhanjdeo reconstructed the temple in the year 1934 spending an approximate amount of Rs 85,000.00. Height of the temple is 100 ft (30 m) and total area is 1764sq.ft. Main temple remains closed between 12 noon to 3 PM. There is a museum constructed by Maharaja Purna Chandra Bhanjdeo in the year 1922.[3]
It is a good place with lots of old artifacts..it's one of the oldest temples in Odisha..contains reilics from Buddhist, Hindu era..but the building condition is very poor..need some maintenance
Khiching museum is oldest museums of odisha. Seeing this one remembers the stone age of history. Several stone images of God and goddess were discovered. This stone is called muguni stone.
I liked the place. There's also a small park and a children's park. Earlier there was a museum but now it's closed. Environment is good.
Very good place for the visitors....Maa kichakeswari temple it is.... Such a wonderful place this is...
Yeah ,I would like to give it 4* and that is a very good place for spending time with family ,Have a nice day
