Jagannath Temple, Behta

This Jagannath temple stands in Behta village, about 3 km from the Bhitargaon block headquarters in Kanpur district, and is widely called the 'monsoon temple'. Local belief holds that water drips from its ceiling a few days before the rains arrive, with the size and number of drops hinting at how heavy the season will be, and that the roof dries once real rain starts falling. Farmers in the area still watch it to judge the coming harvest.

Its origins are unknown, but the last restoration dates to the 11th century. The curved structure recalls a Buddhist stupa, the central shrine is shaped like a chariot, and the surrounding walls resemble lotus petals. As at Puri, an eight-metal Nila Chakra and saffron flag crown the top, the wheel also acting as a lightning conductor. Inside, a black stone image of Jagannath about 6 to 7 feet tall stands with Balram and Subhadra. Janmashtami is the main festival, and the brick Bhitargaon Temple of the Gupta period is close by.