Lingaraj Temple Package

Lingaraj Temple: One of the oldest temples of Bhubaneswar

Known for being one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar, Lingaraj Temple is dedicated to Hari hara, one of the reincarnations of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Historians believe it is one of the oldest shrines in India where both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva were worshipped together.

It is the best example of Odisha style of temple building. Presumably, it is 1000 years old. The Golden Triangle of Odisha include Bhubaneswar, Puri and Konark. The Bharam Purana refers to Bhubaneswar as one of the revered centres for pilgrims.

It is believed that the Lingaraj Temple was built by the ruler Yayati Kesari in the beginning of the 111h century. It was built when the ruler Kesari shifted the kingdom from Jaipur to Bhubaneswar. Though, there are several parts of the temple that perhaps date back to the 6th century. The Jagannath cult witnessed a dramatic increase when the temple's construction was about to complete. This further reinforced the worshipping of Lord Shiva here. Legend has it that Lord Shiva preferred this temple over the other temples in Varanasi.

Following are the main attractions of the Lingaraj Temple

Temple Layout: The Kalinga School of architecture forms the basic building principles of the Lingaraj Temple. It is located near to the Bindu ras sagar lake. Legend has it that this lake was created by Lord Shiva to quench the thirst of Goddess Parvati. The layout of the temple is quite outstanding, often adorned with several sculptures.

The panchratha plan: Around 100 subsidiary shrines are located within the complex of the Lingaraj temple. The main entrance to the temple is located in the east. While, the north and south directions have gates towards them. Inside the temple, the pancharatha plan forms the basic layout. Thus, the temple is divided between five engraved mouldings and divisions.

Bhoga Mandap and Natya Mandir: Exquisite sculptures and carvings inside the temple complex are too ethereal to look at.

Parvati Temple: It is located to the north eastern corner and is known for its extremely beautiful carvings. Every day 51 priests and 51 underprivileged people are served here, dating back to the 13th century tradition.

Excursions from Lingaraj Temple: Pilgrims can visit other destinations such as Vaital Deul Temple (1km), Parasurameswara Temple (1 km), Mukteswara Temple ( 31km) etc.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Lingaraj Temple is between October to April due to the pleasant weather.

How to Visit:
Air: One can visit the Lingaraj Temple by boarding a flight till Bhubaneswar.
Rail: The Bhubaneswar railway station is well connected with the other states of India.
Road: The motorable routes connect Bhubaneswar with other parts of Odisha.