Nestled in the spiritual heart of Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, lies the majestic Lingaraj Temple – one of the oldest and most significant temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in India. This architectural marvel, believed to be over 1,000 years old, is not just a temple but a living legacy of India’s ancient spiritual and cultural traditions.
Drawing lakhs of pilgrims and travelers each year, the Lingaraj Temple stands as a glorious testament to Odisha’s Kalinga architecture, devotion, and heritage. Let’s take a spiritual walk through this grand sanctum.
| Temple Name | Lingaraj or LingarajaTemple |
| Location | Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India |
| Primary Deity | Lord Shiva (Harihara – combined form of Shiva & Vishnu) |
| Founded By | Somavamshi Dynasty (Major contribution by King Yayati II) |
| Established | 11th Century CE (parts over 1,000 years old) |
| Architecture Style | Kalinga style (Rekha Deula, Pidha Deula, Khakhara Deula) |
| Main Tower Height | ~180 feet |
| Temple Timings | 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Major Festivals | Maha Shivaratri, Ashokashtami Rath Yatra, Kartik Purnima, Makar Sankranti |
| Entry for Non-Hindus | Not allowed inside sanctum (can view from platform outside) |
| Nearest Airport | Biju Patnaik International Airport (~4.5 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Bhubaneswar Railway Station (~4 km) |
| Nearby Attractions | Bindu Sagar, Mukteswar Temple, Rajarani Temple, Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves |
| Nearby Restaurants | Dalma, Hare Krishna, Swosti Premium, Truptee, Hotel Priya |
| Nearby Hotels | Mayfair Lagoon, Swosti Premium, Hotel Excellency, Kalinga Ashok |
Historical and Spiritual Importance
The Lingaraj Temple holds great religious significance for both Shaivites (devotees of Lord Shiva) and Vaishnavites (devotees of Vishnu). While primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Harihara (a combined form of Shiva and Vishnu), the temple’s unique fusion of Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions reflects Odisha’s inclusive spiritual culture.
It is believed that the main idol, known as Harihara Linga, is Swayambhu – self-originated. The temple finds mention in ancient scriptures like the Brahma Purana and was built during the rule of the Somavamshi dynasty, with major reconstructions completed in the 11th century CE under the rule of King Yayati II.
Architectural Splendor
The Lingaraj Temple is the largest temple in Bhubaneswar, sprawling across 250,000 square feet, and surrounded by massive fortified walls.
Key Architectural Highlights:
Height: The towering vimana (temple tower) rises to about 180 feet, dominating Bhubaneswar’s skyline.
Style: The temple is a prime example of Kalinga architecture, with intricate carvings, sculptures, and towering spires.
Structure: The complex includes over 150 shrines, including temples dedicated to Parvati, Ganesha, Kartikeya, and more.
Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha): Houses the 8-feet tall linga, partially submerged in water and worshipped as Harihara.
The Jagamohana (assembly hall), Natamandira (dance hall), and Bhoga Mandapa (offering hall) are aligned axially, showcasing classic temple design.
The temple’s detailed carvings on sandstone walls depict divine deities, dancers, musicians, and mythological scenes — a visual treat for heritage lovers.
Temple Timings
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| All Days | 6:00 AM | 9:00 PM |
Morning Puja: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Madhyana Dhupa: 12:00 PM
Evening Aarti: 8:30 PM
Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the sanctum, but can view the temple from a nearby platform.
Major Festivals Celebrated
The temple celebrates several important Hindu festivals with grandeur and devotion:
Shivaratri:
The most important festival
Thousands of devotees stay awake all night, chanting and offering prayers
Ashokashtami:
Unique chariot festival of Lingaraj
The deity is taken on a Rath Yatra to the Rameshwar Temple
Kartik Purnima & Makar Sankranti:
Marked with special rituals and offerings
The Bindu Sagar Lake, located just north of the temple, plays a vital role during many of these festivals.
How to Reach Lingaraj Temple
Lingaraj Temple is centrally located in Bhubaneswar and well-connected by all means of transport.
By Air:
Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) is just 4.5 km away
By Train:
Bhubaneswar Railway Station is 4 km away, connected to major Indian cities
By Road:
Cabs, auto-rickshaws, and city buses are easily available
Ample parking space for private vehicles is available near the temple
Nearby Restaurants
Here are some good places to eat near Lingaraj Temple:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Dalma Restaurant | Authentic Odia Thali | 3 km |
| Hare Krishna Restaurant | Veg, South Indian | 2 km |
| Hotel Swosti Premium | Multi-cuisine | 5 km |
| Truptee Restaurant | Indian Veg | 4.5 km |
| Hotel Priya | Budget-friendly Veg | 1.5 km |
Nearby Hotels
| Hotel Name | Category | Distance from Temple |
|---|---|---|
| Mayfair Lagoon | 5-Star | 7.5 km |
| Swosti Premium | 4-Star | 6.5 km |
| Hotel Excellency | 3-Star | 4 km |
| Hotel Kalinga Ashok | Heritage | 3.5 km |
| OYO Townhouse Patia | Budget | 4.2 km |
Travel Tips for Visitors
Footwear must be removed before entering the temple premises
Dress modestly to maintain temple decorum
Avoid peak summer afternoons; early mornings or evenings are more comfortable
Combine your visit with Mukteswara Temple, Rajarani Temple, and Khandagiri Caves
Participate in aarti or bhoga (prasad offerings) for a more immersive experience
