Lingaraj Temple Bhubaneswar | History | Timings

The Lingaraj Temple located in Bhubaneswar

Lingaraj Temple Bhubaneswar, a 1000-year-old marvel of Kalinga architecture, blending Shaivism & Vaishnavism. A must-visit spiritual site. Lingaraj Temple, a highly respected and important temple in India, is devoted to Lord Shiva. Situated in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, it shows Kalinga architecture. Due to its magnificence, spiritual importance, and historical significance, the temple draws thousands of devotees and visitors annually.

The temple complex is awe-inspiring, featuring a towering spire, deeply crafted figures, and the divine presence of Lord Shiva as Harihara a unique embodiment of both Shiva and Vishnu. The Temple, a significant spiritual landmark, has served as a symbol of devotion for many centuries.

History of Lingaraj Temple

With its origins in the 11th century, the temple boasts a rich historical lineage. Constructed by the Somavamsi dynasty rulers, it saw further expansion during the Ganga dynasty. Some sections of the temple, however, can be traced back to the 6th century.

The temple symbolizes the shift from Odisha’s earlier temples to the more elaborate and refined Kalinga style. It embodies the merger of Shaivism and Vaishnavism, as the deity revered at this site, Harihara, represents a composite of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Ancient texts, including the Brahma Purana and various Puranic writings, also reference the temple.

Best Time to Visit Lingaraj Temple

The best time to visit Lingaraj Temple is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant and ideal for temple visits and sightseeing. The grand Mahashivratri festival is one of the most significant events celebrated at the temple, attracting thousands of devotees.

Other auspicious occasions to visit the temple include Rath Yatra, Kartik Purnima, and Makar Sankranti, when special rituals and celebrations take place. These festivals offer visitors a unique opportunity to witness Odisha’s rich culture and devotion.

Architecture of Lingaraj Temple

The temple is an architectural masterpiece that represents the best of Kalinga-style temple architecture. Standing at a towering height of 180 feet (55 meters), the temple is the tallest in Bhubaneswar.

1. Rekha Deula Style (Curvilinear Tower)

The temple is designed in the traditional Rekha Deula style, known for its towering curvilinear shikhara (spire). With a height of around 180 feet (55 meters), the shikhara of the temple is one of the tallest temple towers in Odisha. Elaborate carvings and sculptures illustrating gods, heavenly figures, and legendary tales embellish the structure.

2. The Four-Part Layout of the Temple

The temple complex is divided into four distinct sections, following the classical Odisha temple architecture:

• Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum) – Houses the Shiva Lingam, worshipped as Harihara, a combined form of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
• Jagamohana (Assembly Hall) – A large hall where devotees gather for prayers and religious ceremonies.
• Nata Mandira (Dance Hall) – A beautifully decorated structure where traditional dance performances and rituals take place.
• Bhoga Mandapa (Offering Hall) – Used for preparing and offering food to the deity.

Each structure has elaborately carved pillars, sculptures, and decorative motifs.

3. Intricate Stone Carvings

Detailed stone carvings embellish the temple, illustrating scenes from Hindu mythology, including gods, goddesses, celestial nymphs (apsaras), animals, and floral motifs. The artisans of that time were highly skilled, as evidenced by the precision of these carvings.

4. The 8-inch Shivalinga and the Holy Bindusagar Lake

A naturally formed 8-inch Shivalinga, which serves as the presiding temple, is located inside the Garbhagriha and is bathed daily with water, milk, and bhang (cannabis). The Bindusagar Lake, situated adjacent to the temple, is deemed holy, and its water is utilized for rituals. Adherents hold the belief that immersing oneself in the lake cleanses one of sins.

5. Over 150 Miniature Shrines

Within the temple complex are over 150 smaller shrines, each honoring various deities such as Parvati, Ganesha, Kartikeya, and Bhairava. These mini-temples are designed in the same architectural style as the main temple, highlighting Odisha’s long-standing temple traditions.

How to Reach Lingaraj Temple

Lingaraj Temple is easily accessible from all major cities in India.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is about 4 km from the temple. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available for transport.

By Train:

Bhubaneswar Railway Station is the closest railhead, about 6 km from the temple. It is well connected with major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.

By Road:

The temple is well connected by road. Bhubaneswar has a good network of buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws that can take visitors to temple. The Baramunda Bus Stand serves as a major hub for intercity and interstate buses.

Temple Timings and Entry Fees

• Temple Timings: The temple remains open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day.
• Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the temple.
• Special Darshan: Devotees can offer prayers and participate in rituals at no additional cost. However, donations are welcome.
• Photography: Photography is not allowed inside the temple premises.

Aarti Timings

The daily worship and aarti at Lingaraj Temple are performed with grandeur and devotion.

• Morning Aarti: 6:00 AM
• Maha Deepa Aarti: 12:00 PM
• Evening Aarti: 8:30 PM
• Special Aartis are conducted during major festivals like Mahashivratri and Kartik Purnima.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors to Lingaraj Temple can explore several nearby attractions:

1. Mukteshwar Temple (1 km)

Known as the “Gem of Odisha Architecture,” Mukteshwar Temple is a small yet beautifully carved temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The intricate archway and sculptural details make it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

2. Rajarani Temple (1.5 km)

This 11th-century temple, known for its stunning sculptures, is unique as it does not have a deity inside. The temple is renowned for its red and yellow sandstone carvings, which depict celestial beings and dancers.

3. Bindusagar Lake (500 m)

Located near Lingaraj Temple, this sacred lake is believed to have water from all the major rivers of India. Devotees take a holy dip here before visiting the temple.

4. Ananta Vasudeva Temple (1 km)

This 13th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and features classic Kalinga-style architecture. It is one of the few temples in Bhubaneswar dedicated to Vaishnavism.

Nearby Stays From Lingaraj Temple

Visitors looking for a comfortable stay near Lingaraj Temple can choose from various luxury and budget hotels.

Luxury Hotels:

• Mayfair Lagoon: A premium 5-star hotel offering luxurious accommodations.
• Trident Bhubaneswar: Known for its impeccable hospitality and modern amenities.
• Swosti Premium: A 4-star hotel offering a blend of tradition and comfort.

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel Grand Central: A well-rated budget hotel with all essential amenities.
• Hotel Excellency: A good choice for those looking for affordable yet comfortable lodging.
• Ginger Bhubaneswar: A well-known budget-friendly chain hotel with decent facilities.

Conclusion

Lingaraj Temple Bhubaneswar, a 1000-year-old marvel of Kalinga architecture, blending Shaivism & Vaishnavism. A must-visit spiritual site. Lingaraj Temple is a magnificent blend of devotion, history, and architectural brilliance. A visit to this ancient temple is not just a religious journey but also a dive into the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. Whether you’re a devotee of Lord Shiva or an admirer of art and history, Lingaraj Temple promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to this iconic shrine and witness the divine aura that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.

FAQs

By: Enthutraveller