Maa Ambika Mandir situated in central of Baripada of Mayurbhanj district. Baripada, a city, and municipality in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha are strongly associated with the Rath Yatra festival of Hindu religion. As Odisha is a reflection of devotion, there is a set of temples in and around the region that invites people from various parts of the state.
Maa Ambika Temple, situated a kilometer away from Baripada Bus Stand, is the chief temple of the city. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Ambika and enjoys a hilltop location, therefore one can also witness the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
In the temple, Goddess Durga is worshipped in the form of Maa Ambika also known as ‘The Living Goddess. The idol of Maa Ambika in this temple is built from marble stone having four hands (chaturbhuja). In the idol, she can be seen sitting on a lion with holy weapons in her hands. These arms include dambaru, kharpara, khadga, and trisul. Besides Goddess Ambika, the idols of Lord Ganesha, Shiva, Hanuman, Maa Mangala, and Shri Chandika are also present here at Devi Ambika Temple.
As per devotees belief, one who makes a wish while looking at the goddess Ambika will experience a divine touch and can also fulfill his/her wish. Durga Puja, Pana Sankranti, Basanti Puja, Makar Sankranti, and Rojo Sankranti are the popular festivals celebrated with so much zeal and devotion at this temple. Apart from being a popular pilgrimage site in Odisha, the temple is also a prominent sightseeing choice as it is comfortably seated on a hill with a waterfall cascading below the temple. A 50 m high reservoir is another attraction located in the temple vicinity that makes a great spot in the region for a picnic.
