Temples in Bhubaneshwar

Lingaraj Temple

The Lingaraj temple is an 11th century monument and one of the outstanding specimens of Orissa style of temple building. It represents true Oriya style, where both sculpture and architecture have evolved in perfect harmony. The main deity here is Lord Shiva known as Tribhubaneswar from which the city takes its name.

The temple rises to a height of 55-m with dramatic vertical ribs. The temple’s large courtyard has more than 100 smaller shrines.

Vaital Deul temple

To the west of Bindusagar is the 8th century Vaital Deul temple with unusual interior carvings. The main deity here is an eight-armed Chamunda (a form of Durga) with a garland of skulls.

Parasurameshwar Temple

Built in 7th century, the Parasurameshwar Temple is one of the best preserved and lavishly sculpted groups of temples in Orissa. The square-towered shrine has a rectangular Jagamohan adjoining it. You can see wonderfully animated images of dancers and musicians on its west window.

Mukteshwar Temple

The 10th century Mukteshwar Temple is one of the jewels of Orissan temple architecture. It is famous for its exquisite sculptures and elegant proportions. A unique feature of this temple is its decorated ceiling. The female figures are remarkable for their expressive faces.

Rajarani Temple

This 11th century temple has a special significance in its architectural style. It has striking spire decorated with miniature replicas of it. The temple is noted for sculptures of dikpals (the guardians of the eight cardinal directions) perched on lotus flowers. The tall and slender female figures are carved on the walls with high relief.

Konark temple

Konark is famous worldwide for its magnificent Sun Temple. This is one of the best stunning monuments of the country, also famous for its architectural excellence. The temple was built by Narasingha Dev in the 13th century AD. This massive structure also called Black Pagoda is situated at a distance of 2 km from the sea in sand covered solitude. The entire temple is built in the form of colossal chariot, mark of god Sun god considered to be source of all energies. This pioneer structure is nearest to Bhubaneswar.