Top 10 Famous Temples in Bhubaneswar to Visit
Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is one of the top tourist places in India, and it is known for its famous temples. The city's name itself arises from the Sanskrit word for Lord Shiva, Tribhuneshwar. Hence, the city is home to numerous Shiva temples.
The temples are of cultural significance derived from the ancient architectural structures giving pre-historic vibes.
List of Temples in Bhubaneswar
Following is the list of temples in Bhubaneswar that are easily accessible via Bhubaneswar Railway Station, Barmunda Bus Terminal and Biju Patnaik Airport.
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10 Best Temples to Visit in Bhubaneswar
If you plan for a trip to Bhubaneswar, here is the list of the best temples you must visit:
1. Lingaraj Temple | Lingaraj Nagar
The Lingaraj temple is massive, featuring 64 small shrines and a 180-metre Linga-shaped spire. The temple's architecture is breathtaking even from a distance as it is the largest temple in Bhubaneswar.
- Best Time to Visit: January to March.
- Temple Timings: 5 am to 9 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: Dhauli Giri Hills, Odisha State Museum, Museum of Tribal Arts.
2. Ananta Vasudeva Temple | Gouri Nagar
The temple was built in the 13th century and dedicated to Lord Krishna. It features the alluring sculptures of Lord Krishna, Balarama and Subhadra. It is one of the finest temples in the city, worshipped by millions of devotees.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 10:30 am to 6 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Udayagiri Caves, Khandagiri Caves.
3. Ram Mandir | Khadagiri
The temple is ochre-painted, enhancing its visual appearance. It is dedicated to Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Lakshman. It also features the majestic idols of Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva and others.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Temple Timings: 6 am to 9:30 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: Ekamra Haat, Manglajodi, Odisha State Museum.
4. Parashurameshvara Temple | Kedar Gouri Vihar
It is one of the city's most ancient temples, constructed in the early 7th century and dedicated to Lord Shiva. The architecture here is stunning Nagara style, making it an incredible structure all over the city.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 8 am to 8 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: Brahmeshwara Temple, Dhauli Shanti Stupa.
5. ISKCON Tempe | Kedar Gouri Vihar
The temple was built in 1991 by Srila Gour Govinda Swami Maharaj in memory of Lord Krishna and Lord Balram. The exterior walls are carved with white marble, which exudes an authentic touch.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 8 am to 9 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: Museum of Tribal Arts, Gallery OIC, Regional Plant Resource Centre.
6. Brahma Temple | Bindu sagar Rd
The temple was built back in the 15th century by Gajapati rulers and dedicated to Lord Brahma. The idol of Lord Brahma, holding the Veda and rosary, is a magnificent structure.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Temple Timings: 5 am to 9 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: BrahmeshwarTtemple, Lingaraj Temple, Udayagiri Caves.
7. Brahmeshwar Temple | Siba Nagar
The temple is 60 ft tall, built in the 9th century, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features many sculptures of Lord Shiva, some too frightening for visitors. The exterior and interior walls are stunningly carved.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 7 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: Udayagiri Caves, Khandagiri Caves, Nandankanan Zoological Park.
8. Rajarani Temple | Rajarani Colony
The temple is quite intriguing due to its historical significance. It shows the love story of the King and Queen of Odissa in the past; hence it is also renowned as a “symbol of love.”
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 5 am to 9 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: Mahanadi Barrage, Hanuman Vatika, Nandankanan Zoological Park.
9. Baitala Deula | Barhadanda Road
The temple was built in the 8th century in typical Kalinga style, dedicated to Chamunda Devi and decorated with a garland of skulls. The outer walls are carved with Hindu deities, mainly Lord Shiva and Parvati.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 7 am to 8 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: State Tribal Museum, Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Delta Square.
10. Muktesvara Temple | Kedar Gouri Vihar
The temple was constructed in the 10th century and dedicated to Lord Shiva. The walls are covered with structures of holy men and women. It is directed to the west and features structures in meditation poses.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Temple Timings: 6:30 am to 7:30 pm - Everyday.
- Nearby Places to Visit: Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Odisha State Museum.
Bhubaneswar, known as the “City of Temples,” is enriched by our Indian culture. The largest temple, Lingaraj temple or holy temple, Muktesvara temple, serves the city with eternal beauty, captivating oneself in utter devotion and leaving a long-lasting impression for life. The city must be visited once in a lifetime for an unforgettable experience.
FAQs about Temples to Visit in Bhubaneswar, India
Which is the biggest temple in Bhubaneswar?
Lingaraj Temple is the biggest temple in Bhubaneswar, measuring 530 feet, and it is a spacious compound wall.
Which is the oldest temple in Bhubaneswar?
Parashurameshvara Temple is the oldest temple in not only Bhubaneswar but also Odisha, and it was preserved between the 7th and 8th centuries CE.
What is the best time to visit temples in Bhubaneswar?
The best time to visit temples in Bhubaneswar is during the festivals between August to February as the place celebrates the festivals magnificently.
What is the significance of Lingaraj Temple?
The Lingaraj Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the famous temples in Bhubaneswar and features a remarkable architectural structure.
Is photography allowed in the temples of Bhubaneswar?
It varies from temple to temple. Some authorities allow it, while some don’t. You need to inquire about the policy before taking photographs.
What are some nearby places to visit while travelling to Bhubaneswar?
In addition to temples, some nearby places to visit in Bhubaneswar are the Odisha State Museum, Nandankanan Zoological Park, and Dhauli Giri Shanti Stupa.
Are there tourist guides available for the temples in Bhubaneswar?
Yes, tourist guides are available for the temples. Various tourist buses have facilities for travelling to temples in Bhubaneswar.
Are there any accommodations near the temples in Bhubaneswar?
Yes, various accommodation facilities like guesthouses, hotels and lodges are available near the temples in Bhubaneswar.
Are there any transportation facilities available to travel from one temple to another in Bhubaneswar?
Yes, buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are available to travel from temple to temple.
Are there any parking facilities available near the temples of Bhubaneswar?
Yes, Bhubaneswar has very specific parking rules for the tourists visiting the temples.
Are there any shops available near the temples of Bhubaneswar for offerings?
Yes, there are various shops available near the temples that sell religious items, gifts, and prayers to visitors.
Are there any facilities for international visitors, such as language translation?
Yes, Bhubaneswar offers special temple guides for international visitors who can translate language for them.