Lingaraj Temple — The Crown of Bhubaneswar
Lingaraj Temple (ଲିଙ୍ଗରାଜ ମନ୍ଦିର) is the largest and most important temple in Bhubaneswar, the "Temple City of India." This magnificent 11th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Tribhuvaneshwar.
Quick Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Built | 11th century CE |
| Dynasty | Somavamsi Kings |
| Height | 55 meters (180 feet) |
| Deity | Lord Shiva (Lingaraj) |
| Style | Kalinga Architecture |
| Location | Old Town, Bhubaneswar |
Unique Deity
The Lingaraj is a Swayambhu (self-manifested) lingam representing both:
- ✦Shiva (Harihara - upper half)
- ✦Vishnu (lower half)
This makes it sacred to both Shaivites and Vaishnavites.
"Lingaraj is where Shiva and Vishnu are worshipped as one."
Architectural Marvel
The Four Sections
| Section | Name | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vimana | Deula | Main sanctuary (55m tall) |
| Jagamohana | Assembly hall | For devotees |
| Nata Mandira | Dance hall | Temple performances |
| Bhoga Mandapa | Offering hall | Food offerings |
Kalinga Style Features
- ✦Curvilinear Deula — The iconic tower
- ✦Intricately carved walls — Depicting gods, goddesses, mythical creatures
- ✦No iron/cement — Traditional mortar joints
- ✦Chlorite stone — Durable grey-green stone
Temple Complex
The complex includes 108 smaller temples around the main shrine, including:
- ✦Parvati Temple
- ✦Gopalini Temple
- ✦Bhavani Temple
Festivals
| Festival | Month | Celebration |
|---|---|---|
| Shivaratri | February/March | Biggest celebration |
| Ashokastami | March/April | Chariot procession |
| Chandrabhaga Mela | January/February | Fair |
Rukuna Rath Yatra
During Ashokastami, the deity is taken on a chariot (rath) procession — a smaller version of Puri's Rath Yatra.
Entry Rules
⚠️ Note: Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.
Non-Hindus can view the temple from a raised platform outside, built specifically for this purpose.
Dress Code
- ✦Traditional attire preferred
- ✦Remove footwear at entrance
- ✦Photography not allowed inside
Bindu Sarovar
Adjacent to the temple is Bindu Sarovar (Bindu Sagar), the sacred tank believed to contain waters from all holy rivers. Devotees take a dip before worship.
History
- ✦7th-8th century: Original smaller shrine
- ✦11th century: Current structure built by Somavamsi King Yayati II
- ✦Later additions: Assembly halls by subsequent rulers
The temple survived Muslim invasions due to local resistance and strategic concealment.
Visiting Tips
| Timing | Details |
|---|---|
| Opens | 5:00 AM |
| Closes | 9:00 PM |
| Best time | Early morning |
| Crowd | Less on weekdays |
How to Reach
- ✦By Air: Bhubaneswar Airport (6 km)
- ✦By Rail: Bhubaneswar Station (3 km)
- ✦Local: Auto-rickshaw, taxi
Significance
Lingaraj Temple represents:
- ✦The zenith of Kalinga architecture
- ✦A living temple with continuous worship since 1000+ years
- ✦The heart of Bhubaneswar's spiritual identity
Related: Jagannath Temple • Konark Sun Temple