The Capital of Odisha, Bhubaneswar is particularly famous for its temples and is known as the ‘temple city’ of India. Having topped the list of Smart Cities, Bhubaneswar is the perfect blend of a cultural, traditional, and an urban lifestyle. It is said that once this city was home to 7,000 stone temples.
This city stands testimony to the rich history that this state had. Not only did Hinduism flourish here, but also did Buddhism and Jainism. People from all paths of life are welcome here in the hospitable, humble, holy city. It was popularly called the ‘Ekamrashetra’ or ‘Old Town’ which has now over 500 of India’s best known stone temples preserved, the architecture of which is still a subject of study.
Here are five temples you MUST visit if you are in Bhubaneswar!
Mukteswara Temple - A 10th century temple known primarily for an arch gateway known as 'Torana', and the detailed carving across all corners of the temple. This architectural marvel was built by the then king Yayati, enshiring Shiva Lingam. The entire complex is mesmerizing and will hold your gaze!
Lingaraja Temple - The major attraction in Bhubaneswar, is the 55-meter-high Lingaraj temple. Built in the 11 th century, this temple is dedicated to the Hari Hara – Lord Shiva and Vishnu. The articulately carved temple is said to have been built by the Somavasi dynasty and the Ganga dynasty later contributed to the beautification of this temple.
Rajarani Temple - This 11th century temple does not enshrine any God, but is definitely godly in terms of the carvings. The sculptures of men and women in an erotic embrace is certain to leave your mouths open in wonder. The temple has supposedly been built by the Somavasi dynasty, and was originally known as Indreswar.
Parshurameswara Temple - One of the oldest living examples of Kalingan temple architecture, Parshurameswara temple is from the 6-7th century built by the Shailodbhavas. The temple shows the crude and rough sculpting done by the then artisans, giving us an impression of how early in the temple architecture phase it was. Look out for a large panel of sculpture depicting a scene from Ramayana when Ravana tried to lift the Kailash mountain.
Chausathi Yogini - Only a few kilometers away from Bhubaneswar, this temple in Hirapur, is home to 64 angry Indian goddesses, the Chausathi Yogini. People also call it the Mahamaya Temple. The hypaethral (having no roof) shrine structure makes it unique. Look out for the granite sculptures of Goddesses on different 'vahanas', or carriers - from Lizard to Crab and more.
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