Updated May 29, 2023
Bhubaneswar
Our country India has much to boast about its culture and diversity. Every part of the country is proud of its rich heritage and values. The history of the culture is present in architecture, monuments, temples, lifestyle, values, tourist places, caves, natural flora and fauna, etc. One of the cities whose temples speak volumes about the glory of its past is Bhubaneswar. Bhubaneswar is in the state of Orissa. The state is culturally vibrant and full of enthusiasm. So, when you explore lesser-known stories of Bhubaneswar, you can check out these beautifully intricate temples for soul-satisfying experiences.
Best 8 Temples in Bhubaneswar
#1 Lingaraj Temple
The grandness and vastness of the Lingaraja temple will make you marvel at its beauty. Many consider the temple to be one of the largest Hindu shrines that date back to the 11th century. The temple’s four sections are arranged linearly in a line. They are Vimana, Jagamohana, Natamandira and Bhoga Mandapa. Each of them has a large tower than the preceding section’s tower. The main attraction of the temple is around 148-feet high sanctum tower. Its grandiosity is worth seeing. It has ornate-based architecture. The walls of the temple also have many beautifully carved structures.
#2 Konark Sun Temple
It makes up the list of one of the most famous temples in India. The temple design has a gigantic sun chariot which adds to the beauty of the temple. The sculptures of horses on the front and wheels on the side plinths complete the design in enchanting ways. The history of the temple dates back to the 13th century. At present, it is in ruins, and only one section is visible – Jagamohan. Its Vimana was present behind it.
#3 Jagannath Temple
The temple is world-famous for its Rathyatra. You cannot miss one of the sacred temples, one of the Char Dham, in Puri. According to ancient tales, it was a Jain shrine. The complex of the temple is large, spreading across 400000 square feet. It has four sections Vimana, Jagamohana, Natamandira and Bhoga Mandapa. The architecture of the temple reflects the regional Kalinga era. The temple celebrates Rathyatra, which is one of the most highly spirited festivals, during June-July. In this yatra, devotees pull huge wooden chariots with idols of Lords. It is a spectacle worth seeing.
#4 Rajarani Temple
The temple, known for its beautiful Kalinga-style architectural design, dates back to the 11th century. It comprises two structures and predates the Lingaraja temple by several decades. The detailed sculptures in the temple throw light on the events of Lord Shiva and Parvati’s marriage. They also beautifully showcase the household chores that women do daily. You can experience the divinity of feminine energy in the complex.
#5 Parashurameshvara Temple
The temple is older and primitive carvings are proof of it. The temple in the region is known for having an additional structure apart from the Vimana sanctum, making it the first ancient shrine to have one. The assembly hall of the temple consists of decorative elements. The lower assembly hall has windows with latticework. Sunlight can enter through it and make the inside view of the temple beautiful.
#6 Chausathi Jogini Temple
The temple worships the deity Goddess Kali. The theme of the temple deflects a bit from core Hinduism and has glimpses of Tantric cult practices. The design of the temple holds a similarity with Stonehenge in England. It is circular and has no roof. There are 56 idols of Goddess Kali inside the temple. Eight remaining forms are there on the central altar. The style and the theme also have a similarity with Druid temples.
#7 Mukteshwar Temple
The temple dates back to the 10th century. The temple reflects Buddhism in its elements. Torana is the name of the entrance gateway. There are Jagamohana and Vimana past the Torana. The deities have a Buddhist influence. There are incredible minute carvings all over the temple. It is the blend of different cultures and architectures.
#8 Ananta Vasudeva Temple
The Vaishnava sect associates this temple. It dates back to the era of the 13th century. It is different in the way it displays Vaishnava culture, whereas all other temples show Shaiva culture. The temple has three structures, varying from other temples having two or four. It has beautiful carvings displaying the rich culture of the Vaishnava sect.
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