About Aradi & Baba Akhandalamani Temple
Aradi, a serene village located in Bhadrak district of Odisha, is home to the sacred Baba Akhandalamani Temple, one of the most revered Shiva shrines in the state. Situated on the banks of the holy Baitarani River, the temple draws thousands of devotees from all over Odisha and eastern India, especially during Maha Shivaratri and Kartik Purnima. The temple’s peaceful setting and spiritual energy make Aradi a must-visit destination for those seeking blessings, clarity, and inner peace.
The Akhandalamani Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here in the form of a large black stone lingam, believed to be Swayambhu (self-originated). The word ‘Akhandalamani’ signifies the “eternal flame” or “ever-glowing light” of Lord Shiva. According to legend, the deity was discovered in a paddy field centuries ago and was later enshrined at Aradi by the local king. The temple was rebuilt in its current form during the 18th century and continues to be an important spiritual center today.
Riders visiting Aradi are welcomed by wide open roads, scenic riverside views, and the sound of temple bells echoing through the breeze. The journey, especially from Bhadrak or Chandabali, offers a mix of rural charm and spiritual stillness. With lush green fields, calm riverbanks, and occasional glimpses of traditional Odia life, every kilometer leading to Aradi feels like a ride into peace.
Nearby attractions include the Chandabali Ghat for boat rides on the Baitarani River, Bhadrakali Temple (about 35 km away), and the quiet countryside trails around Aradi village. During Kartik month, the riverbank lights up with lamps, chants, and floating diyas, creating a divine spectacle for both devotees and travelers.
Whether you seek Shiva’s blessings or simply want to escape into a quieter world, Aradi offers spiritual fulfillment and unmatched tranquility. For riders like us, it's not just about the shrine — it's about the peaceful approach, the riverside prayers, and the soulful return journey that stays with you forever.
Ride Start
Our ride to Aradi began in the early morning from Bhubaneswar, heading toward Bhadrak. The roads were clear, and the sky was painted in gentle hues of dawn. As the sun rose, we found ourselves cruising along peaceful stretches of NH16, before diverting toward Basudevpur. The journey was smooth, lined with palm trees, paddy fields, and occasional glimpses of the Baitarani River sparkling through the fields.
Approaching the Temple
As we neared Aradi, the quiet village atmosphere took over. Local people in dhotis and sarees, cyclists with flower baskets, and the smell of incense welcomed us. We parked our bikes near the temple entrance and stepped into the sacred complex. The temple bells were ringing, priests chanting mantras, and the cool breeze from the river added a touch of purity to everything around us.
Darshan of Baba Akhandalamani
Inside the temple, we joined a line of devotees waiting to offer water and bel leaves to the massive black lingam. The sanctum was filled with deep devotion — chants, bells, and a constant stream of prayers. As we stood before Baba Akhandalamani, there was silence inside us. We offered our wishes, bowed our heads, and felt a powerful connection with the divine. The priests applied sandalwood paste on our foreheads and blessed our journey ahead.
Riverbank Walk & Reflection
After the darshan, we walked down to the ghats of the Baitarani River. The calm water, gentle breeze, and simple village life offered a much-needed pause. Some of us sat on the stone steps in quiet reflection, watching villagers float flowers and diyas in the river. It felt like time had slowed down — and all we could feel was peace.
Return Journey & Shared Gratitude
We began our ride back in the afternoon with a different mood — lighter, calmer, and spiritually recharged. On the way, we stopped at a roadside dhaba for a quick lunch of rice, dalma, and fried brinjal. The food, the ride, and the silence between our conversations all felt sacred. We reached home by evening, carrying a part of Aradi with us — in heart and mind.
Conclusion & Inner Peace
Riding to Aradi wasn't about thrill or speed. It was about slowing down, seeking blessings, and rediscovering our own peace. For Biking Brothers Odisha, this ride was a soulful reminder that not every road leads to a mountain — some lead straight to the heart. Baba Akhandalamani’s presence, the gentle Baitarani, and the spiritual warmth of Aradi will always remain a special chapter in our journey. Har Har Mahadev.