Lingaraja Temple
Lingaraja Temple
4.5
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- skdel2016National Capital Territory of Delhi, India280 contributionsA tranquil haven of spirituality,architecture and rich cultural heritageLingaraj Temple in bhubaneshwar the state Capital of Odisha is a tranquil haven of spirituality that can left any one in awe who is sensitive with heritage and culture. This is a temple complex having main temple of Shri Lingraj ( Lord Shiva) and Lord Vishnu worshiped together having very big Lingam area but not like other shiva lingams and many other temples with Maha Bhog Kitchen where food is cooked in traditional way by authorized people only. Water from old well in complex is utilized for Aahishekam and Bhoga. The architecture showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. The ornate carvings and sculptures adorning the temple walls are a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of bygone eras which is sufficient to mesmerize any one. As usual camera etc are not allowed and be careful from Panda and other bad elements who work there for their personal interests. Its not a place for half a hour but to spend some more time. Go in early morning to get best of things if you want to do abhishekam. Jai ho..Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten 15 December 2023
- RBALSARI1Mumbai, India12 contributionsMust visit when in BhubaneshwarThis is one of the oldest temples in the region built by the Kalinga empire, dating back to the 10th Century. It is very well maintained and a must visit place in Bhubaneshwar. There are around 108 temples in the complex. One needs to leave their footwear and mobiles at the counter. They charge a nominal fee of Rs. 5/- per item, but it is very safe. After visiting the temple, do not forget to visit the temple viewing platform located on Rath Road, from where one can view the entire temple premises.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 5 May 2024
- Bala7Mumbai, India7 contributionsLingaraj temple powerful templeHuge complex. Beware of junior priest looking guys who try to con you by forcing you to say some mantra and try to make you buy prasad in huge quantities. I had to really talk to them to give a fitting reply. Temple is clean and very good to visit. Shraavan Mondays are special days and are very crowded.Visited July 2024Travelled with familyWritten 29 July 2024
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4.5
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Mandy_Mondo
India207 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
To be honest I went in to soak in the beauty of the carvings from the 615 CE. One can spend hours looking with awe at the massive structure with beautiful carvings and sprawling architecture and views.
Remember to pay your respect in the temple where you actually want to as there will always be somebody or the other who will ask you to pay your your respect in every temple in exchange of money. Avoid such interaction.
Also no photography and cellphones are allowed inside the temple.
Remember to pay your respect in the temple where you actually want to as there will always be somebody or the other who will ask you to pay your your respect in every temple in exchange of money. Avoid such interaction.
Also no photography and cellphones are allowed inside the temple.
Written 13 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
prashant 2702
75 contributions
Jan 2020
The ancient architecture is mesmerizing , one feel proud on our history , and it gives a very positive energy once u enter the temple complex.
But reaching the temple is very difficult . one has to walk for 300 Mtr. from parking place to be at temple. ( which is difficult for elderly people) , the street leading to temple is under construction, so it was full of overflowing water and Mud.
once u are inside the temple, u can see the magnitude and detailing of structure . but for Darshan one has to be on the mercy of Pandas at Temple and your paying capacity ...
But reaching the temple is very difficult . one has to walk for 300 Mtr. from parking place to be at temple. ( which is difficult for elderly people) , the street leading to temple is under construction, so it was full of overflowing water and Mud.
once u are inside the temple, u can see the magnitude and detailing of structure . but for Darshan one has to be on the mercy of Pandas at Temple and your paying capacity ...
Written 21 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pragati9
Zambia883 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
A temple that attracts thousands of devotes and travelers should be better managed.The unruly pandas harass and cheat you,dogs and cows are excreting anywhere,people/pandas are throwing the empty milk glass and flowers just behind statues of the gods and goddesses, vendors selling things at any price they choose prasad offered only on payment as is good darshan in numerous temples inside the complex....it's really a stressful experience.Such a pity as a place this magnificent deserves praises and it's us humans that are causing all these negativity.
Phones are not allowed and maybe the reason is someone will capture all these mismanagement and report/protest.
Orissa tourism board should wake up and address these issues.
Phones are not allowed and maybe the reason is someone will capture all these mismanagement and report/protest.
Orissa tourism board should wake up and address these issues.
Written 23 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Surya Katakam
Hyderabad, India2,245 contributions
Nov 2021
Lingaraja temple is one of the oldest and must visit temple of Bhubaneswar City. In general who all are visiting the Bhubaneswar they will plan their visit to all these three temples, without which your Odisha trip will not complete.
The temple is believed to be built by the kings from Somavamshi dynasty in 11th Century, with later additions from the Ganga rulers. It was built by King Jayati Keshari in the 10th Century and completed by King Lalatendu Keshari in the 11th Century. This temple is constructed in red stone and is a classic example of Kalinga style of Architecture. In Kalinga Architecture, basically a temple is made in two parts. A tower and a Hall. The tower is called deula and the hall is called Jagmohan.
This temple is divided into 4 sections.
1. Garbha Griha which is Sanctum and main temple where Swayambhu Lingaraja Swamy have offers and regular daily Pooja's and Harathi's
2. Yajna Shala: This is the prayer hall from where Devotees offers their prayers to the God.
3. Bhoga Mandap: This is the Mandap hall where Naivedaym and Prasadam offers to the Lord.
4. Natya Shala: This is the hall of Dance where all temple festival related cultural conducts.
Specialty of this temple:
1. This temple is Swayambhu and This temple complex has total 50 Shrines and is enclosed by a large compound wall. This temple complex is largest temple of Bhubaneswar City.
2. This makes golden triangle of Odisha with Konark Sun temple and Puri Jagannath temple.
3. The other attraction of the temple is BinduSagar. lake, located in the North side of the temple. The 1300 feet long and 700 feet wide lake is the hub of the temple festival activities.
4. Another Important aspect of this temple is that it signifies the syncretisation of Shaivism and Vaishnavism sects in Odisha. Inside this temple complex Vishnu Temple is also there. The Presiding deity in the temple is known as Hari Hara. Hari denotes Lord Vishnu and Hara meaning Lord Shiva.
5. The temple is out of bounds for Non-Hindus. However Non-Hindus can View the temple from the View point which is located just besides complex wall and the view is very beautiful.
Main Festival of the temple:
1. The most famous festival at the Lingaraja temple is Shivaratri.
2. Chandan Yatra or Sandalwood ceremony is another one of the main festival of Lingaraja temple. This festival happens for 22 days. Both the deities and devotees are sanctified with sandalwood paste to protect from the heat.
3. Lingaraja Rath Yatra is splendid celebrations when the deity is taken to the Rameshwar Deula temple seated atop a chariot. Devotees pull the chariots of Lingaraja and his sister Rukmini to the temple, which is considered to be the greatest service of the Lord.
Temple timings:
Morning 05:00 am to Evening 09:00 pm (All Days)
The temple is believed to be built by the kings from Somavamshi dynasty in 11th Century, with later additions from the Ganga rulers. It was built by King Jayati Keshari in the 10th Century and completed by King Lalatendu Keshari in the 11th Century. This temple is constructed in red stone and is a classic example of Kalinga style of Architecture. In Kalinga Architecture, basically a temple is made in two parts. A tower and a Hall. The tower is called deula and the hall is called Jagmohan.
This temple is divided into 4 sections.
1. Garbha Griha which is Sanctum and main temple where Swayambhu Lingaraja Swamy have offers and regular daily Pooja's and Harathi's
2. Yajna Shala: This is the prayer hall from where Devotees offers their prayers to the God.
3. Bhoga Mandap: This is the Mandap hall where Naivedaym and Prasadam offers to the Lord.
4. Natya Shala: This is the hall of Dance where all temple festival related cultural conducts.
Specialty of this temple:
1. This temple is Swayambhu and This temple complex has total 50 Shrines and is enclosed by a large compound wall. This temple complex is largest temple of Bhubaneswar City.
2. This makes golden triangle of Odisha with Konark Sun temple and Puri Jagannath temple.
3. The other attraction of the temple is BinduSagar. lake, located in the North side of the temple. The 1300 feet long and 700 feet wide lake is the hub of the temple festival activities.
4. Another Important aspect of this temple is that it signifies the syncretisation of Shaivism and Vaishnavism sects in Odisha. Inside this temple complex Vishnu Temple is also there. The Presiding deity in the temple is known as Hari Hara. Hari denotes Lord Vishnu and Hara meaning Lord Shiva.
5. The temple is out of bounds for Non-Hindus. However Non-Hindus can View the temple from the View point which is located just besides complex wall and the view is very beautiful.
Main Festival of the temple:
1. The most famous festival at the Lingaraja temple is Shivaratri.
2. Chandan Yatra or Sandalwood ceremony is another one of the main festival of Lingaraja temple. This festival happens for 22 days. Both the deities and devotees are sanctified with sandalwood paste to protect from the heat.
3. Lingaraja Rath Yatra is splendid celebrations when the deity is taken to the Rameshwar Deula temple seated atop a chariot. Devotees pull the chariots of Lingaraja and his sister Rukmini to the temple, which is considered to be the greatest service of the Lord.
Temple timings:
Morning 05:00 am to Evening 09:00 pm (All Days)
Written 5 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Debkumar LAHIRI
Kolkata (Calcutta), India8 contributions
Mar 2022
This is a complex of many temples, constrcuted on the basis of Vedic knowledge. The temples exhibit marvellous sculptoral work, showing deities and supernatural creatures of many forms. Regrettably, the priests or the Pandas are not much aware of the Vedic basis of the complex and many of them are mainly focused on how to fleece money from the pilgrims or tourists. So be careful and you can choose to travel on your own or with a trusted guide. Mobile phones, cameras and shoes are not allowed inside the temple precincts and can be kept in the custody of 'Shoe-Phone station' at the temple entrance.
Written 4 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
945saurabhm
Pune, India30 contributions
Mar 2023
Very beautiful and large temple complex in Bhubaneshwar dedicated to Lord Shiva. However there are some weird rules here. We cannot take mobile phone or camera here which is the norm in most temples of Odisha but here they did not even allow umbrella. Imagine going to an open place on a rainy day and you have to deposit your umbrella and compulsorily get wet!! If you want prasad you have to may a large amount upwards of 500 or 1000 (they will push for even more), which is something sad in almost all major temples of Odisha.
Written 3 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Banshidhar S
Brahmapur, India46 contributions
Aug 2021
Lingaraja Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar, the capital of the Indian state of Odisha, India. The temple is the most prominent landmark of Bhubaneswar city and one of the major tourist attractions of the state.The Lingaraja temple is the largest temple in Bhubaneswar. The central tower of the temple is 180 ft (55 m) tall. The temple represents the quintessence of the Kalinga architecture and culminating the medieval stages of the architectural tradition at Bhubaneswar.The temple complex has 50 other shrines and is enclosed by a large compound wall.
The Lingaraja temple is open from 6 a.m. to about 9 p.m. and is intermittently closed during bhoga (food offering) to the deity. During early morning, lamps in the cella are lit to awaken Lingaraja from his sleep, ablution is performed, followed by adoration and arati (waving of light). The temple is closed at about 12 noon until about 3.30 p.m. A ceremony is known as Mahasnana (ablution) is performed once the doors are closed, followed by pouring of Panchamrita (a mixture of milk, curdled milk, clarified butter, honey, and ghee) upon the deity for purification. At about 1:00 pm, a ripe plantain is divided into two, one half is offered to Sun god and the other half to Dwarapala (the guarding deities in the doorway). Between 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. the food offering called Ballabha Bhoga (breakfast containing curdled milk, curd, and vegetables) is offered to the deity. The consecrated food is carried to the temple of Parvati and placed before her as an offering, a practice commonly observed by the orthodox Hindu housewives. At about 2 pm, the Sakala Dhupa (morning's offering of food) takes place. After the food is offered to Lingaraja, the offerings are carried to the temple of Parvati to serve her. An offering called Bhanda Dhupa is carried out at 3:30 p.m. at the hall of the offering. This food is later offered by the inmates to the pilgrims as Mahaprasada.
The Lingaraja temple is open from 6 a.m. to about 9 p.m. and is intermittently closed during bhoga (food offering) to the deity. During early morning, lamps in the cella are lit to awaken Lingaraja from his sleep, ablution is performed, followed by adoration and arati (waving of light). The temple is closed at about 12 noon until about 3.30 p.m. A ceremony is known as Mahasnana (ablution) is performed once the doors are closed, followed by pouring of Panchamrita (a mixture of milk, curdled milk, clarified butter, honey, and ghee) upon the deity for purification. At about 1:00 pm, a ripe plantain is divided into two, one half is offered to Sun god and the other half to Dwarapala (the guarding deities in the doorway). Between 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. the food offering called Ballabha Bhoga (breakfast containing curdled milk, curd, and vegetables) is offered to the deity. The consecrated food is carried to the temple of Parvati and placed before her as an offering, a practice commonly observed by the orthodox Hindu housewives. At about 2 pm, the Sakala Dhupa (morning's offering of food) takes place. After the food is offered to Lingaraja, the offerings are carried to the temple of Parvati to serve her. An offering called Bhanda Dhupa is carried out at 3:30 p.m. at the hall of the offering. This food is later offered by the inmates to the pilgrims as Mahaprasada.
Written 23 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Debashis T
Dehradun, India2,297 contributions
Dec 2019
The Bhubaneswar is identified with lord Linagraja.He is the king of Bhubaneswar.No visit to Bhubaneswar is complete without darshan of Lord Lingaraja.The temple is in old Bhubaneswar,so the way to the temple is through bylanes and by crossing many oxes on the way. But the parking space in front of the temple is quite big. Inside the main temple there are several small temples are there which is believed to be visited first before having darshan of Lord Lingaraja. As only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple, so there is a viewing point outside the temple for non hindus from which they can see the inside of the temple but not the lord. The Prasad of this temple is very good.
Written 4 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vikash S
Dhanbad, India7 contributions
Feb 2021 • Family
The place is really a powerhouse. The energy in there ancient stone deities are immense .
The devi temple beside the lingaraj temple is just a blast of pure energy. It hits you in your face the moment you enter here.
If you think that I am talking zibriah then here is the review type you are looking for......It's a place you must visit when you are in BBS.
The devi temple beside the lingaraj temple is just a blast of pure energy. It hits you in your face the moment you enter here.
If you think that I am talking zibriah then here is the review type you are looking for......It's a place you must visit when you are in BBS.
Written 26 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dockalpesh
Vadodara, India111 contributions
Dec 2019
This is a really well preserved monument built sometime in the 11-12th century. The best way to view the temple is to buy a booklet and look at the architecture by oneself. Beware of the pandas (priests) who will latch on to you and try to convince you to part with your hard earned moolah to ensure your place in the heavenly afterlife!
Written 4 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
In the Lingaraj Temple i wanted to drop my bag, they sent me away by winking in a very unpolite way. Why? Never seen so rude behaviour in my life.
Written 14 March 2020
They do have a counter to store the bags, mobiles, bets, footwear etc. While I did not experience any rude behavior, there are lot so touts who will tell you that they will show the place around at a very nominal fee. What they do is put you on to a pandit indie who will fore you to do some rituals etc. etc. Be aware and beware of this.
Written 1 March 2022
How to get to the platform from where I can click photos?
Written 17 November 2019
Hi come out of the temple take a left turn and turn again left. 50 odd feet away you will find a small room and adjacent that there are steps going up. If take the steps, you will be on top of that room. You can capture some good pictures from there. All the best.
Written 18 November 2019
None as such. However since the local people hold this temple at the highest esteem, it is advisable one should have the attire to enter a traditional temple. And also shoes, mobile and camera are not allowed. Leave that with your car.
Written 14 October 2019
Kaushik Roy
Kolkata (Calcutta), India
Is there any locker room available to keep my luggage outside the Lingaraj Temple Bhubaneswar?
Written 25 February 2019
Ramana Venkata
Hyderabad, India
What is the timings of Lingaraja Temple? I mean when it is closed and when it will be opened?
Written 20 January 2019
Hi Shubham. Are non-Hindus allowed to visit/go inside the temple?
Written 5 March 2018
No you cannot go inside if you are not Hindu but ask someone for the "platform". This is the only place where you can see the temple from "above" and take nice pictures. A local will ask you to sign a book a do a donation (of course). Give Rs.200 and he will be happy. He will probably walk you along a bit and explain a few things. Giving more would be too much to my knowledge of Odisha after 2 weeks. I guess more tourists give too much as it's probably the first site they visit and have to pay.
Written 5 March 2018
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