Temples in Orissa

Lingaraj temple
Bhubhaneshwar is the capital of Orissa and also the city of temples. It was rumored that there were at least 2000 temples that were originally built in this city. It’s also known as the temple city of the East. The largest of the temples is known as the Lingaraj temple and is about 1000 ears old.

The city is revered as a pilgrimage centre and is known as the place where there are 1000 Shiv lingams. The other famous temples in Bhubhaneshwar are the Ananta, Vasudeva, RajaRani, Mukteshwara, Kedareswara, Sidheshwara, and Parasurameshwara.

Konark Sun temple
The Sun temple at Konark is an awe inspiring temple and was built in the 13th century by King Narasimha Deva and is also known as the Black Pagoda. The seafarers from Europe were aware of the impressive temple.

The ruins of the temple were excavated in the 19th century. The tower of garbagriha is missing though the one over Jagmohan is still standing and this is quite awe inspiring. The temple has been conceived and designed as a chariot with 24 wheels, having a set of spokes and elaborate carvings.

There are 7 horses that pull the chariot. While 2 lions grad the gate leading up to the entrance. There are also carvings which depict the erotic style. There are images of animals, foliage, men, warriors and other interesting patterns that are shown.

Jagannath temple at Puri
Jagannath temple at Puri is a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Krishna), Subhadhra (sister of Krishna) and Balabhadhra (brother of Krishna). The temple marked the presence of Vaishanavism in the state again, prior to which, Orissa was a major Buddhist centre. It was originally built by Kalinga ruler in 1148 AD. Much of the current standing structure was built in 1178 AD by King Ananga Bhima Deva.

There are many festival actually 24 festivals that are held during the year. Elaborate rituals mark the worship of the deities here everyday. More than 10,000 people come here everyday to visit the temple. The vast temple complex has about 120 temples and is 400,000 square feet in area.

Bhubhaneshwar, Konark and Puri form the temple triangle in state and millions of devotees from all over India come hereto worship at the temple. Puri is also one of the seats where The Shankarcharya peeth is there. There are many ore famous temples on the circuit. There are at least 200 well known temples that date back centuries and are very magnificent to look at.