A Sacred Journey to the Shri Ram Temple, Fategarh, Nayagarh

A Sacred Journey to the Shri Ram Temple, Fategarh, Nayagarh

By Lokanath Mishra
(An account of my visit on 21.12.25)

On 21st December 2025, I had the divine opportunity to visit the Shri Ram Temple at Fategarh near Nayagarh, one of the most spiritually significant temples of Odisha, often revered as the “Ayodhya of Odisha.” Our journey began early in the morning from Puri, and after a peaceful drive through scenic landscapes and forested stretches, we reached the temple premises at around 10:30 AM.

Darshan and Spiritual Experience

Despite the heavy rush of devotees, the atmosphere was deeply spiritual and uplifting. We were blessed to have darshan in the garbhagruha of Prabhu Shri Ram, Mata Sita, and Prabhu Lakshman, whose beautifully crafted idols radiate serenity and devotion. Standing before the divine trio atop the sacred hill filled the heart with immense peace and reverence.

In the parshwa (subsidiary) temples, we also offered prayers to Prabhu Hanuman, Lord Ganesh, Mahadev (Lord Shiva), and Surya Dev. Each shrine is thoughtfully placed, allowing devotees to experience a complete spiritual circuit within the temple complex. Though the temple was crowded, the devotion and discipline of the pilgrims added to the sanctity of the place.

Origins and Spiritual Significance

The Shri Ram Temple stands majestically atop Sriram Pahad, a hill that has been considered sacred by local villagers for generations. Historically, this hill was a site where villagers performed Govardhan Puja, praying for rainfall and agricultural prosperity. This long-standing tradition reflects the deep-rooted faith of the local people.

The sanctity of the hill was further enhanced by the discovery of a holy neem tree, believed to have been used as Daru (sacred wood) for Lord Sudarshan during the 1912 Nabakalabara festival of Lord Jagannath. This discovery strengthened the belief that Sriram Pahad was divinely blessed.

Moved by these spiritual associations, the villagers of Fategarh, under the leadership of dedicated individuals like Chakradhar Pradhan, took the initiative to build a grand temple for Lord Ram. A trust named Sriram Seva Parishad was formed, marking the beginning of a remarkable community-driven spiritual movement.

Construction and Architecture

Construction of the temple began in 2017, entirely supported by local villagers and devotees, along with generous donations from well-wishers. The total cost of the project is estimated to be around ₹11 crore, a testament to collective devotion and faith.

Built in the traditional Kalinga (Odishan) architectural style, the temple showcases elegant proportions and intricate craftsmanship that reflect Odisha’s rich temple-building heritage. After years of dedicated effort, the temple was inaugurated in 2024, transforming a humble shrine into a magnificent pilgrimage destination.

Key Features of the Temple
• “Ayodhya of Odisha”: The temple has earned this title due to its strong spiritual association with Lord Ram and the devotion surrounding it.
• Hilltop Location: Situated atop a scenic hill, the temple can be reached by road or a roughly 1 km walk/drive, offering breathtaking views and a serene environment.
• Major Pilgrimage Centre: Today, the temple attracts devotees from across Odisha and other states, especially during festivals and auspicious occasions.

Conclusion

The Shri Ram Temple at Fategarh is not just a place of worship; it is a living symbol of community faith, devotion, and perseverance. From ancient local beliefs and sacred discoveries to modern architectural grandeur, the temple beautifully blends tradition with contemporary devotion. My visit to this hilltop shrine was a deeply fulfilling spiritual experience, leaving me with a sense of peace, gratitude, and renewed faith in Prabhu Shri Ram.