Lingaraj Temple is one of the popular Hindu temples located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. It is dedicated to Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in the country. The temple was built in the 11th century by the Somavamsi king, Jajati Keshari.
The temple is an example of Kalinga architecture, which is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures. One of the most striking features of the temple is its striking 50-meter high spire, which was built over a period of time. The temple is enclosed within a large compound with four entrances, which are guarded by stone elephants.
Inside the temple, you will find a large Shiva Lingam, which is the main deity. There are also several other deities that are worshipped here, including Vishnu, Lakshmi, Surya, and Ganesha. The temple is also home to several shrines dedicated to various other gods and goddesses.
The Lingaraj Temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus in Odisha and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. The temple is open to visitors throughout the day, except during the festival season when it is closed.
Visitors to the temple can enjoy the beautiful carvings and sculptures that adorn the walls and ceilings of the temple. There are also several festivals celebrated here throughout the year, such as Shivaratri, Rath Yatra, and Gajapati.
The Lingaraj Temple is a must-visit for anyone visiting the beautiful state of Odisha. It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region and a reminder of its deep spiritual roots.
Ideal For:
The temple is a great destination for history buffs, as the complex houses a number of ancient sculptures, inscriptions, and artifacts. The temple also has a number of interesting myths and legends associated with it, which makes it an interesting place to explore.
Apart from its religious and architectural significance, Lingaraj Temple is also a great destination for nature lovers. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also explore the nearby lakes, rivers, and mountains.
Whether you’re looking to experience India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, or simply want to take in the spectacular views of the countryside, Lingaraj Temple is the perfect destination.
How to reach
Reaching Lingaraj Temple is quite easy. The temple is situated in the old city of Bhubaneswar and can be accessed by road, rail and air.
By Road: Bhubaneswar is well connected to most of the major cities in India by road. You can easily reach Lingaraj Temple by hiring a cab or taking a bus from Bhubaneswar.
By Rail: Bhubaneswar railway station is the nearest station to Lingaraj Temple. The temple is just 10 km away from the station.
By Air: The nearest airport to Lingaraj Temple is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. The airport is connected to all the major cities in India and abroad.
Once you reach Bhubaneswar, you can easily visit Lingaraj Temple. The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. It is best to visit the temple during the morning or evening aarti to experience its spiritual atmosphere.
Climate and best time to visit:
The climate in Bhubaneswar is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C in summer and 15°C to 20°C in winter. The best time to visit Lingaraj Temple is from October to March. During this period, the temperature is mild and the climate is pleasant. It is also the best time to explore the city of Bhubaneswar.
The Lingaraj Temple complex is a popular tourist destination and is open for visitors from 6 am to 9 pm. Visitors are advised to wear modest clothing while visiting the temple. Tourists can also visit the nearby attractions such as Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Dhauli Giri Hills, and Ratnagiri.
Ideal Duration:
The ideal duration of stay in the Lingaraj Temple would depend on the individual. Some people may choose to spend a few hours in the temple complex while others may decide to stay for a few days or even longer. Depending on the individual's capacity and devotion, the duration of stay can vary from person to person.
It is recommended that if you are visiting the temple for the first time, then it is advised to stay for at least one day to explore the temple complex and its beautiful surroundings. On the other hand, those visiting the temple with a spiritual purpose should stay for a longer duration. This can range between two to five days. During this period, devotees can take part in various rituals and spiritual activities like meditation, yoga, and puja.
The temple is open all days of the week and is usually most crowded on Mondays and Thursdays. The temple is also open on major Hindu festivals like Shivaratri and Makar Sankranti.
Places to Stay:
Here are some of the best places to stay when visiting Lingaraj Temple:
