By Subhendu 
Harishankar Temple is located in the peaceful Gandhamardan Hills in the western part of Odisha’s Bolangir District. This beautiful temple lets you worship both Lord Hari and Shankar while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
One of the main attractions of the temple is the beautiful waterfall that flows down from the mountain. This lovely waterfall makes the temple a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you’re a traveler or looking for a peaceful spiritual experience, Harishankar Temple is the perfect spot to visit.
Are you excited about a great trip? Let us help you! We have a complete travel guide ready to show you the best way to explore the amazing Gandhamardan Hills along with the beautiful natural waterfall. Plan your visit now and discover the beauty of this calm and peaceful place!
Harishankar Temple Quick Overlook
| Name of the Temple | Shree Shree Harishankar Temple |
| Location | Gandhamardan Hills, Bolangir District, Odisha, India |
| Gods Worshipped | Lord Hari (Vishnu) and Lord Shankar (Shiva) |
| Natural Attraction | Beautiful waterfall flowing from the mountain |
| Activities to Do | Worship, Hills Trekking, Waterfall Exploration, Photography, Feel the nature. |
| Visiting Hours | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free |
Harishankar Photo Gallary
Harishankar Temple Location
The Harishankar Temple is situated in the Patnagarh Sub-Division of Bolangir District in the state of Odisha, India. The temple’s precise address is as follows:
- Location: Harishankar Temple, Bolangir District, Patnagarh Sub-Division, Odisha, PIN – 767028
How to Reach Harishankar Temple?
By Road
- From Bolangir:
- The temple is approximately 78 kilometers from Bolangir town.
- It takes around 2 hours to reach the temple by car or bike.
- You can also travel by local bus or use the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation’s (OTDC) special Harishankar bus service.
By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Harishankar Road Railway Station (HSK)
- Located about 10 kilometers from the temple.
- Although there is no direct train to Harishankar Temple, you can take a train from Bolangir to Harishankar Road.
- From Harishankar Road station, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Air
- No Direct Flight Service:
- There are no flight services available directly to Harishankar.
- The nearest airport is in Raipur or Bhubaneswar, and from there, you can hire a taxi or take a train/bus to reach Bolangir, and then continue your journey to the temple by road.
Suggested Routes
- From Balangir:
- Take the Balangir-Patnagarh (SH-42) route and then the Harishankar Road for a scenic drive through the hills.
- Enjoy the beautiful landscapes as you approach the temple.
- From Bhubaneswar:
- Travel via NH57 and take the direct route through Bolangir.
- Plan your journey to experience local attractions along the way.
Best Time to Visit Harishankar
You can visit Harishankar Temple any time from June to February. However, the experience varies with the seasons, and knowing when to visit can help you make the most of your trip.
Peak Season: June to August
During June to August, the temple sees an increase in visitors due to the Kawad Yatra. This annual pilgrimage attracts many devotees, making the area more crowded. If you prefer a quieter visit, you might want to avoid traveling during these months.
Summer Season: March to June
The summer months from March to June are generally hot, and the weather might not be ideal for enjoying outdoor activities. The heat can make exploring the area less comfortable, so it’s advisable to plan your visit outside this period if possible.
Recommended Season: Winter
The best time to visit Harishankar Temple is during the winter months. From October to February, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for exploring the temple and enjoying the natural beauty of the Gandhamardan Hills. Many visitors find this time ideal for picnics and family outings, as the scenic surroundings offer a peaceful and enjoyable experience.
What to Explore in Harshankar?
Harishankar offers a wonderful mix of religious, natural, and cultural attractions that are sure to delight visitors. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient temples or enjoying beautiful landscapes, Harishankar has something for everyone.
Harishankar Temple
The main attraction at Harishankar is the ancient Harishankar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu (known together as Hari-Hara).
This temple is famous for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can worship both deities in one place, making it a significant spiritual site for devotees.
Harishankar Waterfall
Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the Harishankar Waterfall, located just a short distance from the temple. This picturesque waterfall is a popular spot for picnics, photography, videography, and relaxation.
The sound of the flowing water and the lush surroundings make it a perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.
Gandhamardan Hills
The Gandhamardan Hills are steeped in mythological significance. You might have heard about these hills from childhood stories. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Hanuman carried this hill from the Himalayas to save Lakshman’s life during the Treta Yug.
Interestingly, Gandhamardan is now the 37th biodiversity heritage site of India and is renowned for its medicinal plants. The hills offer scenic trails for trekking and provide stunning views of the landscape.
Prasad Sevan
Visitors to Harishankar Temple can also partake in Prasad Sevan, a unique experience of enjoying lunch as Prasad (blessed food) within the temple premises.
This meal offers not just nourishment but also a spiritual connection to the temple and its community.
Wildlife
The forests surrounding Harishankar are home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and numerous bird species. It’s an excellent place for nature enthusiasts who enjoy observing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Conclusion
Harishankar is more than just a spiritual destination; it’s a serene escape where you can truly enjoy the beauty of nature from the bottom of your heart. Whether you’re exploring the majestic Gandhamardan Hills, taking in the sights of the stunning waterfall, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the temple, Harishankar offers a unique experience that combines spirituality with natural beauty.
Plan your visit today and discover why so many people find peace and joy in this enchanting place. If you need any help or have any questions about planning your trip, feel free to reach out to us. We are here to assist you and make your journey as memorable as possible.
If you have visited Harishankar Temple, we would love to hear about your experience! Please share your thoughts and comments below. Your insights and stories might be highlighted in our future posts, and they could help inspire others to visit this beautiful place.
We look forward to hearing your stories and welcoming you to the beautiful world of Harishankar!