Patali Srikhetra, Kotsamlei

The picturesque Patali Srikhetra is a melting pot of cultural syncretization of Vaishnavism, Shaktism and Buddhism. Also known as Gupta Srikhetra (Hidden Abode), the importance of the site in Odia Culture and Jagannatha Tradition is encapsulated in the name itself. Madala Panji, the official record of the Shri Jagannath Temple, Puri, states that the three deities  Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Debi Subhadra were placed inside the cave on Trikut Hill when there was an invasion on Puri. According to legend the deities stayed inside the cave for 144 years until they were brought out again by Gajapati Jajati Keshari, of the Somavamsi dynasty and then consecrated back in Shri Jagannath Temple, Puri. The site draws thousands of pilgrims every year, to experience and learn about the Jagannath culture, history and the spiritual practices of Western Odisha.