renowned temples in Odisha to visit
We are all familiar with the Odissi dance, which has classical roots and started in Odisha. However, did you know that Odisha's temples are renowned for both their spiritual significance and architectural beauty? Sure, The temples of Odisha are visited by people from all over the world because of its remarkable construction and design, which inspires admiration and awe. The majority of the temples are significant and have mythological allusions, which attract a large number of worshipers.
Odisha's temples are well worth a visit, whether it is for the beautiful architecture, the colorful patterns, or the minute details. For a while, the state was ruled by the Kalingas. Their impact on the temple's construction is evident. As a result, before visiting these temples, familiarize yourself with their specifics.
1. Sun Temple of Konark:
Renowned for its exquisite construction, the Konark Sun Temple dates back to the thirteenth century. This temple is devoted to Lord Surya, as the name would imply. Sun Deity. This temple's construction is unique since it is centered upon Surya's chariot, in contrast to other temples in the area. Constructed in the Kalinga architectural style, the Europeans called this temple the "Black Pagoda."
The romantic artworks adorn the walls of the shrine. The sunlight falling on the temple can be used to tell the time of day or night. The design of the Sun Temple allows the sun's rays to touch the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.
Temple Address: Konark, Odisha 752111.
Darshan Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM.
Dress Code: Most people prefer traditional dress.
How to reach from nearest city:
The temple is located at a distance of 60 km from Bhubaneswar and 35 km from Puri. To reach the temple, various trains or buses as well as taxis are available from these cities.
The most efficient way to reach Konark is by taxi.
Approximate Visit Time: 1. to 1.5 hours.
Festivals and Best Time to Visit: Konark Dance Festival.
Temple Details: 06758 236 821.
Other attractions near the temple: Chandrabhaga Beach, Konark Temple Museum and Ramachandi Beach.
2. Jagannath Temple, Puri:
The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the holiest shrines in Odisha. Many people visit Vishnu Mandir every year. It has an important spiritual significance. The temple priests climbed atop the structure and changed their flags and it is believed to be as tall as a 45 feet tall building. It is said that if the ritual of changing the flag is missed even for one day, the temple will be closed for 18 years.
The most distinctive feature of the Jagannath temple is that its flag flies against the wind. The temple does not cast shadows during the day. If you are inside the temple, you cannot hear the sound of ocean waves.
Temple Address: Bhanumathi Path, Puri, Odisha, 752002.
Darshan Timings: 5 AM to 11 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional dress.
How to reach from nearest city:
The temple is located at a distance of 56 km from Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar. You can hire a taxi to go to the temple.
Railways The nearest station is at Puri and many trains are connected to various cities in India.
Puri is connected to major cities by a highway, a public highway connecting the temple.
Approximate Visit Time: 2 hours.
Festivals and Best Time to Visit: Jagannath Rath Yatra,
Temple Details: 0674 251 116
Other attractions near the temple are: Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary, Sudarshan Craft Museum, Narendra Sarovar and Puri Beach.
3. Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar:
The Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar is one of the largest temples in Odisha and dates back to the eighth century. Like many South Indian temples, it has a Dravidian gopuram and the temple sanctuary is built in the form of a tower. Additionally, the outer and inner walls of the temple are decorated with carved figures. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Parvati as well as Lord Shiva, but the temple houses many other deities as well.
The walls of the temple are decorated with sculptures of Durga, Chamunda, Bhairava and many other deities. The water tanks around the temple are believed to cure physical ailments with its various properties. There are more than a thousand lingas known as Sahastralingas in the premises.
Temple Address: Lingaraj Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
Darshan Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM.
Costume Code: Classic dress.
How to reach from nearest city:
The nearest terminal to Temple Airport is Bhubaneswar Airport. The nearest railway station is Bhubaneswar Railway Station. You can use taxi or bus to go to the temple.
Approximate Visit Time: 1 hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Shivratri.
Temple Details: NA.
Other attractions near the temple are: Ratnagiri Buddhist Excavation, Ashoka Rock Inscription Dhauligiri Hills and Ekamra Heritage Walls.
4. Rama Mandir, Bhubaneswar:
Ram Mandir near Kharvel Nagar is famous for its magnificent architecture. On the temple grounds are Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lakshmana, to whom devotees can offer prayers. In addition, this temple complex houses several other Hindu deities such as Hanuman and Shiva. The surroundings of the temple are well maintained gardens where you can enjoy a peaceful and tranquil experience.
Temple Address: Janpath Road, Jan Path, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Darshan Timings: 6 AM to 9:30 PM.
Dress Code: Preferably classic.
How to reach from nearest city:
Bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik International Airport is located at a distance of 5 km from the temple. But, as it is in the center of the city you can use local transport to reach the temple.
Approximate Visit Time: 1 hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Rama Navami,
Temple Details: NA.
Other attractions near the temple: Nandankanan Zoological Park, ISKCON Temple, Tribal Artifacts and Tribal Culture Museum, Udayagiri Caves and Orissa Modern Art Gallery.
5. Maa Tarini Temple, Ghatgaon:
Maa Tarini Temple is located in Ghatgaon on the bank of Rushikulya River. It is considered as one of the Shakti Peethas of India. It is believed that this is the place where Sati Devi's breasts fell after she was slaughtered with the Sudarshana Chakra after participating in the Daksha Yajna. The Chaitra Mela temple is celebrated with great pomp and ceremony. It was built in the seventeenth century and has 999 steps and is believed to be a wish-granting temple.
Temple Address: Temple Road Dt, Near Rushikulya River, Purusottampur, Raipur, Odisha.
Visiting Timings: 5 AM - 12:25 PM; 2 PM - 9:45 PM.
The dress code is conservative. Favorite style of clothing.
How to reach from nearest city:
Bhubaneswar is connected to major cities of India by regular flights. The nearest railway station to the temple is Harichanderpur Railway Station which is 17 km away.
Approximate visit duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Makara Sankranti, Raja Sankranti, Mahavishuba Sankranti, Asadhiparba, Durga Puja (Sharadiya Navratri).
Temple Details: NA.
Other attractions near the temple are: Gopalpur Beach and Jiranga Monastery.
6. Brahmeshwar Temple, Bhubaneswar:
The construction of Brahmeshwar temple dates back to 9th century. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the oldest temples in Odisha, established during the Somavamsi dynasty. The temple is an important place for people interested in history and mythology. The temple has historical and architectural significance as it is carved out of a single rock.
The Brahmeshwar Temple is similar to the Mukteswara Temple using the Lingayat style of architecture. The outer and inner walls of the temple are decorated with exquisite carvings. The temple also has beautiful dance halls and banquet halls.
Temple Address: Tankapani Road, Siba Nagar, Brahmeswarapatna, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
Visiting Timings: 5 AM - 9 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional dress code.
How to reach from nearest city:
You can take a taxi to Bhubaneswar airport. Bhubaneswar Airport to take you to the temple which is 10 km away. Additionally, all major towns and cities can be connected to Bhubaneswar through excellent rail connections.
Approximate duration of visit: From one or two hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Temple Details: NA.
Other tourist attractions close to the temple are: Lingaraja Temple and Raja Rani Temple.
7. Parasurameshwara Temple, Bhubaneswar:
Temple of Parasurameshwar in AD. Built in 650 in the city architecture style. It was offered to Lord Shiva. The walls of the temple have intricate designs with septa matrikas in the form of deities. Besides Ketu, the temple also has sculptures of the eight planets that form part of Vedic astrology. Parasurama, an incarnation of Vishnu, is believed to have taken penance from Lord Shiva to avenge himself.
The altar is believed to be the first for worshipers in the temple of Parasurameshwar. Like many South Indian temples, its architecture includes a gopuram as well as a vimana. The walls of the temple are decorated with beautiful patterns and intricate details.
Temple Address: Near Bindu Sagar Pond, Kedar Gaurivihar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
Visiting Timings: 5 AM - 6 PM.
The dress code is traditional dress.
How to reach from nearest city:
One can also take an autorickshaw or vehicle from Bhubaneswar Transport Center to reach the temple
Approximate visit duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Parashumashtami.
Temple Details: NA.
Other attractions near the temple: Jaganmohan Pooja Mandir, Kedar Gauri Park and Mukteshwar Temple.
8. Mukteshwar Temple, Bhubaneswar:
The temple was built in 950 AD during the Somavamsi dynasty. Mukteshwar Temple is known for its impressive architectural design. The temple is situated on a hill dedicated to Lord Shiva. Some parts of the temple are architecture built in traditional Buddhist style. The outer and inner walls of the temple are decorated with arches and intricate structures. Inside the temple, there are intricate details, intricate designs and carvings.
Temple Address: Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Visiting Timings: 6:30 AM - 7 PM.
Costume Code: Classic dress.
How to reach from nearest city:
Nearest terminal to Mukteswara Temple is Pantnagar Airport. Mukteshwar Temple Pantnagar Airport is 94 km. One can take taxis from the airport to reach the temple.
Approximate Visit Duration: 30 minutes.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: January.
Temple Details: NA.
Other tourist attractions close to the temple are: Ekamara Heritage Walls, Lingaraj Temple and Dhaulagiri Hills.
9. Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar:
The Rajarani Temple has romantic sculptures of men and women, earning it the title of "Temple of Love" built in the eleventh century. The temple is not part of any particular religion and does not have any idols or idols in it. The magnificent design of this temple is breathtaking, built of red-gold sandstone. Rajarani Temple consists of two temples and a shrine called Jagamohana. Various moods occurring during the marriage ceremony of Lord Shiva as well as Goddess Parvati are depicted on the wall.
Temple Address: Tankapani Rd, Near BOI ATM, Kedar Gaurivihar, Rajarani Colony, Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
Temple Timings: 7 AM - 5 PM.
Dress Code: There are no restrictions on dress.
How to reach from nearest city:
The temple is 6 km from Biju Patnaik Airport. You can also reach the temple by train and the nearest railway station is Bhubaneswar railway station. The nearest bus stop is Bermuda in Bhubaneswar.
Approximate Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours.
Festivals and Best Time to Go: Raja Rani Sangeet Utsav.
Temple Details: NA
Other attractions near the temple: Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves and Lingaraja Temple.
10. Gundicha Temple, Puri:
Gundicha Temple in Puri, Odisha is one of the most magnificent temples. The most unique thing about the temple is that it is filled only during the Rathayatra festival. The temple god, Jagannath of Hindu mythology resides in the temple. You can visit this temple anytime of the year as it is not crowded. The temple was built in honor of Lord Krishna's aunt Gundicha and is built in the Kalinga style with four intricately carved structures. It is a belief that Lord Jagannath stays in the temple for nine days during the Rath Yatra. A gray sandstone was used to build the entire temple. It is also known as the "Garden House of Lord Jagannath" and many legends are connected with it.
Temple Address: Gundicha Temple, Puri, Odisha 752001.
Temple Timings: 6 AM - 9 PM.
The dress code is traditional dress.
How to reach from nearest city:
The temple is 1.5 km from Puri Junction Railway Station. You can book a taxi to go to the temple or reach by local bus.
Approximate visit duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Ratha Yatra.
Temple Details: NA.
Other tourist attractions close to the temple are: Chilika Lake, Konark Beach, Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary and Puri Beach.
11. ISKCON Temple, Bhubaneswar:
This temple is very popular among Indians and tourists. ISKCON temple has a large number of devotees. The white temple complex offers a peaceful atmosphere to the visitors. It is possible to witness sacred aartis, meditation and Geeta classes that will make you want to stay longer. The temple houses Jagannath, Subhadra, Gauranitai, Balarama and Lord Krishna. The temple is surrounded by an open lotus of white marble, which makes it a magnificent architectural design.
Temple Address: NH-5, Near Krishna Tower, IRC Village, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751015.
Temple Timings: 8 AM to 9 PM.
Dress Code: There are no restrictions, but traditional dress is preferred.
How to reach from nearest city:
Bhubaneswar Airways is connected to all major cities of the country by trains, roads and railways. You can also use local transport to reach the temples.
Approximate Visit Time: 1 hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Temple Details: 9337318403.
Other attractions near the temple: Ram Mandir, a museum of tribal arts and artifacts.
12. Dhabaleshwar Temple, Cuttack:
The Dhabaleshwar Temple, a tribute to Lord Shiva, is located in Cuttack, Odisha. Dhaba means white and Ishwar means God. Hence the name comes from Dhabaleshwar temple. The temple dates back to the 12th and 11th centuries and has some stone carvings, while the Dhabaleshwar temple was built in the 14th century. Located on an island 27 km from Cuttack, the temple is built in the Kalinga style of architecture.
Temple Address: Canal Road, Ranihat Colony, Cuttack, Odisha 753007.
Temple Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM.
Dress Code: Preferably classic.
How to reach from nearest city:
The temple is 17 km from Cuttack Railway Station and 37 km from Biju Patnaik International Airport. Taxis can be hired to go to the temple.
Approximate Visit Duration: One to 2 hours.
Festivals and Best Dates to Visit: All Seasons, Shivaratri.
Temple Details: NA.
Other attractions near the temple: Doleswar Temple Hanging Bridge, Damadamanipitha Dam.
13. Taratarini Temple, near Brahmapur:
The Taratarini temple sanctuary is home to Tara and Tarini twins, one deity twin the other is located in the southern part of Odisha. The temple is thronged with visitors and pilgrims throughout the year, making it a popular tourist destination. To reach this magnificent temple, you have to climb 999 steps. While the hill is shaded by lush green gardens, it is very thrilling to climb up from the foothills.
Darshan Timings: 5 AM - 12.25 PM and 2 PM - 9.45 PM.
How to reach from nearest city:
Bhubaneswar Airport can be described as the nearest airport. The nearest railway station is Berhampur railway station. Taxis or buses can be taken from the railway station or airport to reach the temple.
Approximate visit duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Chaitra Yatra.
Temple Details: NA.
Other tourist attractions close to the temple are: Gopalpur Beach and Dhabaleshwar Temple.
14. Ananta Vasudeva Temple:
Ananta Vasudeva Temple has a rich history and is one of the most famous places you should visit while visiting Bhubaneswar. Built in the 12th century, the temple has Lord Krishna, Lakshmana and Subhadra as its main deities. It is a Vaishnava temple, similar to the Lingaraja temple. Built during the Ganga Dynasty, the temple grounds are dotted with small shrines. There is a sculpture of Lord Balarama on seven hooded serpents along with other sculptures of mythological significance.
Temple Address: Gauri Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
Visiting Timings: 6:30 AM - 7 PM.
Costume Code: Classic dress.
How to reach from nearest city:
It is located at a distance of 4.5 km from Bhubaneswar railway station. Local transport is available to reach there.
Approximate duration of visit: One or two hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Janmashtami.
Temple Details: NA.
Other attractions near the temple: Duduma Falls, Konark Beach, Lingaraja Temple.
15. Vital Gods Temple, Bhubaneswar:
The Temple of the Vital Gods in honor of Goddess Chamundi was built in the eighth century in the Kalinga style of architecture. It is a unique temple with beautiful and intricate carvings. It can also be called Tina Muniya Mandir. The temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian fashion, a feature of this South Indian temple, replicated in the temple gopuram. Additionally, the walls of the tower are decorated with romantic designs. Goddess Durga is also one of the amazing features of the temple.
Temple Address: Barhadanda Road, Old Town, Bhubaneswar.
Darshan Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM.
Costume Code: Classic attire is preferred.
How to reach from nearest city:
Bhubaneswar is easily connected to major cities of India by railways, airways and roads. State buses are available to take visitors directly to the temple. Bhubaneswar Railway Station is 3 km from the temple and Bhubaneswar International Airport is 4 km away.
Approximate Visit Duration: One to 2 hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Temple Details: NA.
Other attractions near the temple: Odisha State Museum, Biju Patnaik Park, Dhauli Shanti Stupam.
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