Khirachora Gopinath Temple, Remuna
About Khirachora Gopinath Temple
The Khirachora Gopinath Temple at Remuna in Balasore district is one of the most famous Vaishnavite shrines of Odisha, dedicated to Lord Krishna as Gopinath. The temple is revered for the divine legend of Lord Gopinath “stealing kheer” for his devotee Madhavendra Puri—hence the name Khirachora (meaning “the kheer thief”). It is a vibrant center of Bhakti movement and Vaishnava culture that attracts pilgrims from across India. The temple is also recognized as a State Protected Monument for its historical, cultural, and devotional heritage.
Quick Facts
- Location: Remuna, Balasore District, Odisha
- Deity: Lord Gopinath (Krishna)
- Famous For: Kheer prasad (Amrita Keli) and legend of Madhavendra Puri
- Architecture Style: Kalinga Nagara style (Rekha Deula with Jagamohana)
- Status: State Protected Monument (Odisha State Archaeology)
- Major Festivals: Janmashtami, Dola Yatra, Ratha Yatra, and Kheer Bhoga rituals
Historical and Architectural Significance
The temple of Khirachora Gopinath is believed to have been constructed during the 13th century CE under the rule of the Ganga kings. Over the centuries, it has remained a major spiritual center, associated with the Bhakti movement and the spread of Vaishnavism in Odisha. The temple structure follows the Kalinga architectural style—comprising a tall Rekha Deula sanctum and a rectangular Pidha Deula hall (Jagamohana).
The sanctum houses the beautiful black stone image of Lord Gopinath, flanked by Rukmini and Satyabhama. The temple walls and surrounding shrines exhibit simple yet graceful carvings, maintaining the traditional Odishan temple aesthetic. The site continues to be an important place of pilgrimage for devotees following the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition.
Religious Importance
The Khirachora Gopinath Temple holds a special place in the Vaishnavite world because of its connection with Srila Madhavendra Puri, the spiritual teacher of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. According to tradition, Lord Gopinath secretly stole a pot of kheer to offer His devotee—an act of divine love that has made the temple world-famous. Since then, the temple has been a revered center of bhakti and devotion, where the story of Khirachora is celebrated daily.
The temple is a hub for Odia Vaishnava rituals, kirtan traditions, and temple cuisine, symbolizing divine compassion and grace. Pilgrims believe that partaking in the Amrita Keli (Kheer Bhoga) grants blessings of spiritual fulfillment.
Temple Offerings and Prasada
The highlight of the temple visit is the sacred Kheer Bhoga—a thick, sweetened milk offering believed to be Lord Gopinath’s favorite. Prepared traditionally in earthen pots, the Amrita Keli is offered daily and distributed among devotees as Mahaprasada. It is one of the most famous temple foods in Odisha and is considered as holy as the Mahaprasad of Puri.
In addition to kheer, devotees can also receive anna bhoga and dry prasad during special rituals and festivals. The serene temple environment makes the act of partaking in prasada an intensely spiritual experience.
Places to Visit Near Khirachora Gopinath Temple
- Nilagiri Jagannath Temple: A royal shrine of Jagannath, around 25 km away.
- Panchalingeswar Temple: A Shiva temple atop a scenic hill, 30 km from Remuna.
- Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary: A forested sanctuary known for elephants and peacocks.
- Chandipur Beach: A unique beach where the sea recedes up to 5 km during low tide, 10 km from Balasore.
- Balasore Town: A vibrant district headquarters with transport and lodging facilities.
How to Reach Khirachora Gopinath Temple
By Road: Located about 8 km from Balasore town and 240 km from Bhubaneswar via NH-16.
Auto-rickshaws, buses, and taxis are easily available from Balasore.
By Rail: Nearest major station – Balasore (BLS).
By Air: Nearest airport – Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Remuna is between October and March. However, devotees also throng the temple during Janmashtami and Dola Purnima for special rituals, bhajans, and kheer seva. The cool post-monsoon months offer a pleasant atmosphere for pilgrimage and temple photography.
Photo Gallery
