About

Nestled in the tranquil village of Nairi near the banks of Chilika Lake in Odisha, the Kankanashikhari Temple stands as a sacred and historical site devoted to Lord Shiva. Surrounded by lush greenery and spiritual vibrance, the temple attracts pilgrims and nature lovers alike.

Kankanashikhari is not just a place of worship—it is a symbol of faith, heritage, and the deep-rooted culture of Odisha. Over the centuries, this temple has been a spiritual anchor for the community, offering peace, blessings, and connection to the divine.

This website is a humble initiative to document and preserve the glory of Kankanashikhari Temple and share it with the world.

It includes details about the temple’s history, festivals, travel information, nearby attractions, and more.

The initiative is guided and supported by Dr. Susant Kumar Sahoo, whose dedication and love for Odisha’s spiritual heritage have made this digital presence possible. His vision is to connect people with the timeless wisdom and serenity of this divine location.

Whether you’re planning a visit or simply seeking to learn more, we welcome you to explore and feel the spiritual essence of Kankanashikhari.

Shree Jagannatha Leelakhetra Trust

One World, One Lord – Jai Jagannath

हर संकट में एक नाम – जगन्नाथ महाप्रभु

A Sacred Gem of Odisha

Jagannath Mahaprabhu Refuge During Mughal Invasions

The name

“Kankanashikhari” is derived from two Sanskrit words — Kankana (meaning ornament or sacred bangle) and Shikhari (meaning peak or hilltop). Locals interpret it as “The Hill of Divine Ornaments”, symbolizing the spiritual crown of the region.

Invasion

In 1731, when Taqi Khan attacked Puri’s Sri Mandir, the sacred idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra & Devi Subhadra were stealthily shifted from Puri to safer locations around Chilika Lake, including Kankana Sikhari near Nairi village

During their exile, the servitors brought fresh water from the nearby Jamuna Nirjhara to perform rituals, since Chilika is brackish.

They also offered spine gourd (kankada) harvested locally to the deities—this inspired the name Kankana Sikhari (“spine gourd hill”)

The idols stayed at Kankana Sikhari for several months before being moved to other refuge sites such as Nairi’s Harihara Dev Temple, where they remained for nearly a year, followed by stays at Marada in Ganjam district for over two years

Cultural Significance & Modern Revival

Madala Panji (the traditional chronicle of the Puri temple) records that during the Mughal period (13th–18th centuries), the deities were relocated multiple times—including stays at Chilika region sites like Kankana Sikhari—to protect them from invaders

In 2007, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) rediscovered Kankana Sikhari’s heritage value and began restoration efforts.

By 2015, they had installed a wooden Nandighosha chariot wheel, a temple podium, dug a well, mulched paths, and provided seating and solar lighting for pilgrims

A local trust, the Shree Jagannath Leelakshetra Trust, now maintains the site, oversees rituals, and manages ceremonies such as boat-based Rath Yatra, ensuring free boat ferries for devotees from Nairi village

Historical Overview

Key Highlights — Summary Table

Historical role

Sanctuary for deities during Mughal invasions in early 1700s

Name origin

“Kankana Sikhari” from offerings of spine gourd (“kankada”)

Unique festival

Rath Yatra conducted on boats across Chilika

Pilgrimage experience

Hilltop temple, serene waters, Beautiful Islands , Eco Tourism and spiritual ambiance.

Summary

Kankana Sikhari stands as a sacred symbol of faith and perseverance—a place where Lord Jagannath and siblings were sheltered, and now celebrated with a unique boat-based Rath Yatra on Chilika Lake. It beautifully intertwines history, devotion, and nature into a spiritual sanctuary away from Puri’s bustle.