lingaraj-temple-bhubaneswar

The Oldest and Largest Temple of Bhubaneswar: Lingaraj Temple

Lingaraj temple is devoted to the Hindu god Harihara, a form of Shiva and Vishnu. It is the biggest temple in the city. It is one of the most tourist attractions in Odisha. The height of the temple is 55m. It is believed that the temple is built by the kings from the Somavamsi dynasty.

The temple has four components namely jagamohana, natamandira and bhoga-mandapa. The temple complex has 50 other shrines and is enclosed by a large compound wall. The door in the gate is made of sandal wood. This temple is 1000 years old temple. An average of 6,000 visitors visits this temple every day.

Lakhs of devotees attracted to Lingaraj temple every year, especially during Shivaratri. Shiva Ratri is the main festival celebrated annually in the Phalgun month. During this time millions of devotees visit the temple.

Things to see and enjoy at Lingaraj Temple

The temple is divided into four parts, the Yajna Shala, the Garbh Griha, the Bhoga Mandap and the Natya Shala respectively.

In the Garbh Griha the lingam of Lord Shiva is worshipped as both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. On the main entrance, one can see a Chakra (Lord Vishnu) and a trident (Lord Shiva) on the either side of the door.

The ‘Nata Mandir’ provides a hint about the devadasi tradition. The side walls of the hall have decortive sculptures displaying women and couples. It has a flat roof sloping in stages.

The bhoga mandapa has four doors in each of the sides. The hall has a pyramidal roof.

Famous Places near to the Temple to Roam Around

Nandankanan Zoo is located in the Chandaka Forest. It is a garden of Pleasure and beauty of natural forest.

Dhauki Giri Shanti Stupa situated on the opposite of the Dhauli hill and by the river Daya is a famous Buddhist tourist destination.

Iskon temple has deities of Radha and Krishna. Devotes worship Love God Lord Krishna here.

Ram mandir is a place of Lord Ram, Lakshman and Sita. The temple is present in the heart of the city.

Nicco Park is an amusement park present in the city.

Mukteswara temple is a gem of Odishan architecture. This temple has diamond shaped latticed windows, decorated interiors and large number of carvings.

Pathani Samanta Planetarium is a great place to learn about space; for children as well as adults.

How to reach?

By Air– One Can take flight to Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar.

By Train– The nearest railway stations is at Bhubaneswar railway station.

By Road– Many buses go to Bhubaneswar from there autos and city buses are there to the temple.

Best Time to Visit

Best time to visit the temple is the month Shraban, Kartika and during Shivaratri.