Bhubaneswar Temples: A Greatest Journey Back in Time to Spiritual Splendor(2023)
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of the Indian state of Odisha, is a city steeped in spirituality and cultural heritage. Renowned as the “Temple City of India,” Bhubaneswar is home to an array of magnificent temples that stand as architectural marvels and sacred sanctuaries of devotion. Bhubaneswar Temples not only exude awe-inspiring beauty but also hold profound historical and religious significance, making them a captivating destination for travelers, pilgrims, and art enthusiasts.
The Spiritual Significance of Bhubaneswar Temples
A Glimpse into Bhubaneswar’s Spiritual Heritage
Bhubaneswar’s spiritual legacy dates back to ancient times, with references in various historical scriptures and texts. The city’s name itself is derived from the Sanskrit word “Bhuvaneshwar,” meaning “Lord of the Universe,” reflecting its profound spiritual connection.
The Sacred Landscape of Temples
The city is adorned with an impressive collection of temples, each narrating stories of devotion, faith, and cultural heritage. The temples form an integral part of the city’s landscape, and their presence shapes the way of life for its residents.
Architectural Marvels and Artistry of Bhubaneswar Temples
A Journey Through Time: Ancient Temples of Bhubaneswar
The temples of Bhubaneswar are a window to the past, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the ancient Kalinga civilization. These temples stand as a testament to the advanced architectural skills and artistic finesse of the bygone era.
The Distinctive Kalinga Architecture
Bhubaneswar’s temples are known for their unique Kalinga style of architecture, characterized by the use of sandstone and intricate carvings that depict mythological tales and celestial beings.
Intricate Carvings and Symbolism
The Bhubaneswar Temples walls are adorned with intricate carvings that tell stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Each carving holds symbolic meanings, offering insights into ancient beliefs and cultural practices.
Iconic Temples of Bhubaneswar
Lingaraj Temple: The Grand Abode of Lord Shiva
The Lingaraj Temple stands as an awe-inspiring testament to the spiritual heritage and architectural brilliance of Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple’s grandeur and sacred significance attract devotees, history enthusiasts, and art lovers from far and wide. Nestled amidst a bustling cityscape, Lingaraj Temple remains a divine abode where time stands still, and the soul finds solace in the divine presence.
Address: Lingaraj temple, Lingaraj Temple Rd, Lingaraj Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Mukteswar Temple: A Jewel in Stone
The Mukteswar Temple, nestled in the heritage city of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, is a gem of architectural finesse and spiritual significance. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this timeless temple showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of ancient Kalinga artisans and serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Beyond its architectural marvels, the Mukteswar Temple holds a profound spiritual allure that captivates pilgrims and travelers alike.
Address: 6RVR+35P, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751019
Rajarani Temple: The Lovestruck Beauty
Rajarani Temple, nestled amidst the verdant landscape of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is an enchanting marvel that beckons travelers and devotees alike. Renowned for its architectural elegance and intricate sculptures, this temple stands as a timeless tribute to love, devotion, and artistic brilliance. As visitors step into the realm of Rajarani, they are embraced by the ethereal charm and serenity of its sacred precincts.
Address: Tankapani Rd, near BOI ATM, Kedar Gouri Vihar, Rajarani Colony, Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Brahmeswara Temple
Brahmeswara Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, erected at the end of the 9th century CE, is richly carved inside and out. This Hindu temple can be dated with fair accuracy by the use of inscriptions that were originally on the temple. They are now lost, but records of them preserve the information of around 1058 CE. The temple is built in the 18th regnal year of the Somavamsi king Udyotakesari by his mother Kolavati Devi, which corresponds to 1058 CE.
Address: Near, Tankapani Rd, Siba Nagar, Brahmeswarpatna, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Ananta Vasudeva Temple
Ananta Vasudeva Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu located in Bhubaneswar, the state capital of Odisha, India. The temple was constructed in the thirteenth century, and the complete murtis of Krishna, Balarama, and Subhadra are worshipped there.
The temple dates back to the period of Chandrika Devi, the daughter of Anangabhima III, during the reign of King Bhanudeva. A commemorative inscription that marked the foundation of the temple can be found in the British Museum’s collection.
Address: Gouri Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Parsurameswara Temple
Parsurameswara Temple located in the East Indian city of Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, India, is considered the best-preserved specimen of an early Odia Hindu temple dated to the Shailodbhava period between the 7th and 8th centuries CE.
The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is one of the oldest existing temples in the state. It is believed to have been built around 650 CE in Nagara style and has all the main features of the pre-10th century Kalinga Architecture style temples. The temple is one among the Parashurameshvara group of temples.
Parashurameshvara Temple has a vimana, the sanctum, and a bada, the curvilinear spire over its roof, rising to a height of 40.25 ft (12.27 m). It is the first temple to have an additional structure called jagamohana, compared to the earlier temples that had only the vimana. Though the temple is dedicated to Shiva, it contains sculpted images of Shakta deities, which are otherwise normally part of Shakta temples. The temple is the first in Bhubaneswar to contain depictions of Saptamatrikas, namely, Chamunda, Varahi, Indrani, Vaishnavi, Kaumari, Shivani, and Brahmi. The temple is maintained and administered by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as a ticketed monument. Parashurashtami is the major festival celebrated in the temple from June–July every year. The temple is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the state of Odisha.
Address: 6RVQ+6JX, Kedar Gouri Vihar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Baitala Temple
Baitala Temple is an 8th-century Hindu temple of the typical Khakara style of the Kalinga architecture dedicated to Goddess Chamunda located in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, India. It is also locally known as Tini-mundia deula due to the three spires on top of it, a very distinct and unusual feature. The three spires are believed to represent the three powers of the goddess Chamunda – Mahasaraswati, Mahalakshmi, and Mahakali.
Address: 6RRJ+XWG, Barhadanda Road, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Rameshwar temple
The Rameshwar temple is a very old temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, and known as the Mausi Maa temple of Lingaraj Temple. It is located from a 2 km distance from Lingaraj shrine.
The legend goes as when Rama was returning from Lanka after victory over Ravana, Goddess Sita asked to worship Shiva there. So Ramachandra built a Linga for that purpose. Traditionally during Ashokashtami, which falls one day before to Rama Navami in Chaitra Lord Lingaraja comes to this temple by a large chariot called Rukuna Rath and stays for four days. Historically the temple dates back to the 9th century.
Address: 7R3P+99R, Gautam Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751014
Bhaskareswar Temple
The temple of Bhaskareswar, located in the serene landscapes of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a magnificent structure steeped in rich historical and spiritual significance.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple stands as a symbol of divine radiance, captivating the hearts of devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
Address: C-5/4, C-5/4, Sachivalaya Marg, OPTCL Colony, Anand Bazar, Bhoi Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751022
Shree Bhubaneswari Mata Temple
The Shree Bhubaneswari Mata Temple, located in the sacred city of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a divine abode that exudes an aura of spiritual grace and devotion. Revered as the presiding deity of the city, the temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees who flock to seek the blessings of the compassionate and benevolent Mother Goddess.
Address: C-5/4, C-5/4, Sachivalaya Marg, OPTCL Colony, Anand Bazar, Bhoi Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751022
Ram Mandir
Ram Mandir located in Bhubaneswar, near Kharavel Nagar, Janpath, Odisha, India. The temple houses images of the deities Rama, Lakshman, and Sita. The high-rising spire of the main temple, visible from many parts of the capital city, is its main attraction. Built and managed by a private trust, the temple complex also comprises shrines devoted to ochre-painted marble idols of Hanuman, Shiva, and other gods.
Almost every festival of Hindus is celebrated around the year. Ram Navami, Vivaha Panchami, Janmashtami, Dussehra, Shivaratri, and Pana Sankranti are the major ones. The magnificent Aarathi during morning and evening draws a lot of devotees. The annual fair is also organized here on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi.
Address: 1, Madhusudan Marg, Ekamra Vihar, UNIT- 9, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751001
ISKCON Bhubaneswar
ISKCON Bhubaneswar, a spiritual oasis in the heart of the ancient city of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, radiates the essence of devotion, love, and Krishna consciousness.
As a branch of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), this temple holds a significant place in the lives of devotees and seekers, imparting profound spiritual teachings and promoting the path of bhakti (devotion) to Lord Krishna.
Address: NH16, near Krishna Plaza, IRC Village, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751015
Brahma Temple
The Brahma Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a rare and revered shrine dedicated to Lord Brahma, one of the principal deities in Hinduism’s trinity.
Situated amidst the ancient temples of the city, this unique temple holds immense religious and historical significance, drawing devotees and history enthusiasts from far and wide.
Address: Bindu Sagar Rd, Gouri Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Nagesvara Temple
Nagesvara Temple is a functioning Hindu temple located in the village of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. It is situated on the western right bank of the Lingaraja West Canal at a distance of 10.35 meters (34.0 ft) west of Subarnesvara Siva Temple, located across the canal.
Nagesvara Temple is located in the midst of a residential area within the city of Bhubaneswar which is the capital of the state of Odisha in India. It stands facing West on a platform that is 5.6 meters (18 ft) wide by 5.0 meters (16.4 ft) deep by 0.4 meters (1.3 ft) high. The temple itself rises to a height of 8.15 meters (26.7 ft).
The garbha griha of the temple is established with a Shivling of approximately 2.5 feet in height and 1.5 feet in diameter. The sculptural embellishments on the outer wall of the temple contain Parvati to the North, Kartikeya to the East, and Ganesha to the South, the family members of lord Siva.
The temple incorporates numerous niches for statuary, in addition to the ones for Parvati, Kartikeya and Ganesha. The exterior of the temple is made from ochrous sandstone (resembling the material of the Mukteshvara Temple) that is ornately carved in the style of the Kalinga Kingdom.
Address: Nageswar Tangi, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 75101
Suresvara Mahadeva temple
Suresvara Mahadeva temple, also known as Byamokesvara temple, is located in the Tala bazaar market complex, Old Town of Bhubaneswar, the capital of the state of Orissa, India. The temple is located in front of the Lingaraj Temple across the road on the left side of the eastern gateway at a distance of 10.00 m. The temple faces towards the west. It is a living temple and the enshrined deity is a Siva lingam with a circular yonipitha at the center of the sanctum. At present, the sanctum is 1.50 m below the present road level. It is a recently recovered temple that had been buried. It was built in the 10th century AD. The temple is maintained by the local shopkeepers.
Address: 6RQM+6VX, Lingaraj Temple Rd, Gouri Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Spiritual Practices and Festivals of Bhubaneswar Temples
Daily Rituals and Devotional Offerings
The temples in Bhubaneswar follow a daily routine of rituals, including various puja ceremonies, offering prayers, and engaging in devotional activities that attract scores of devotees.
Festivals that Light up the Temples
Bhubaneswar’s temples come alive during festivals like Rath Yatra, Durga Puja, and Diwali. These festivals witness grand celebrations, attracting devotees and tourists from all corners of the country.
Unraveling Mysteries and Legends of Bhubaneswar Temples
Mythological Tales and Beliefs
The Bhubaneswar Temples are steeped in mythology, with several legends and stories associated with their origin and existence. These myths add an air of intrigue and mystique to these sacred sites.
The Enduring Legends of Bhubaneswar Temples
Legends surrounding temples like Lingaraj and Mukteswar continue to inspire awe and wonder, adding to the spiritual allure of these ancient structures.
Preserving Heritage and Conservation Efforts of Bhubaneswar Temples
Challenges in Preserving Ancient Temples
As the city grows and urbanizes, preserving the architectural heritage of the temples becomes a challenging task. Ensuring their structural integrity and cultural significance requires dedicated efforts.
Initiatives to Safeguard Cultural Legacy
Various organizations and government bodies are actively involved in conservation initiatives to protect and preserve the historical and cultural legacy of Bhubaneswar’s temples.
The Cultural Tapestry of Bhubaneswar Temples
Temples as Hubs of Cultural Activities
Apart from being religious centers, the temples also serve as venues for cultural events, music, and dance performances that celebrate the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
Dance, Music, and Art in Temple Celebrations
Temples’ annual festivals witness enthralling performances of traditional dance forms and soul-st
FAQ
Which is the most beautiful temple in Bhubaneswar?
ISKCON temple is the most beautiful temple in Bhubaneswar. The pristine temple is constructed with white marble and looks incredibly pristine. This beautiful temple is illuminated with lights on the occasion of Janmashtami.
Which is the oldest temple in Bhubaneswar?
Parsurameshvar temple built in the 7th century is the oldest temple in Bhubaneswar.
What is the famous temple in Bhubaneswar?
Lingaraj temple is the biggest and most prominent Temple in Bhubaneswar(With a massive 180 ft of height 55 meters). It is constructed with the iconic “Eula” style of architecture. Which is the most beautiful temple in Bhubaneswar? ISKCON temple is the most beautiful temple in Bhubaneswar.
Which is the biggest temple in Bhubaneswar?
Lingaraja Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva and is one of the biggest temples in Bhubaneswar, the capital of the Indian state of Odisha, India. The temple is the most prominent landmark of Bhubaneswar City and one of the major tourist attractions of the state.
How many temples are there in Bhubaneswar?
Today, Bhubaneshwar is home to around 700 temples which gives it the name of ‘City of Temples’.
Why is Bhubaneswar temple famous?
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is called the Temple City of India because it is home to over 700 temples. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is believed to have temples that date back to the 6th and 11th centuries.
Which is the nearest jyotirlinga from Bhubaneswar?
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga (Dakinyam), Bhimpur.
