Carvings of mythological scenes and celestial beings make Odisha a place of wonder! The state astonishes you with a plethora of temples dedicated to different Hindu deities. What’s more? Temples in Odisha are all about magical manifestations and legends that take you back in time. Known for its culturally rich beliefs, the majesty of intricate detailing and sculpting art elevates the aura of the state.
The fragrance of incense sticks, tranquil surroundings and the essence of contentment are what drive several devotees. Rhythmic chants, elaborate aartis and bhajans in the temples of Odisha are definitely worth witnessing. It is time to explore the unexplored architecture, the vision of the ancient Kings and the presence of heartwarming places of worship.
22 Temples in Odisha: A testament to timeless elegance
1. Shree Maa Tara Tarini Temple
When in Odisha, you cannot miss visiting one of the divine temples here. Shree Maa Tara Tarini Temple is a popular place of worship for locals as well as tourists. The temple is dedicated to two goddesses, Tara and Tarini. Located on top of a hill, it offers breathtaking views of the surroundings.
It is also believed that both the goddesses are pure manifestations of feminine energy. What’s more? You get an opportunity to witness world-class architecture. It is best to offer your prayers and spend time in tranquil areas.
2. Lingaraj Temple
Being one of the top-rated temples in Odisha, Lingaraj Temple is a revered place. It stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring Kalinga architecture and intricate details. The place of worship has carved walls, sculptures and small shrines too.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it receives immense love from the locals around. The temple gets crowded on the occasion of Mahashivratri. Moreover, it is the best place to witness the cultural heritage on stage. A spiritual aura, a calm environment and a sense of contentment are all that you can experience here. It is ideal to book budget-friendly hotels in Bhubaneswar for a spiritual holiday.
3. Shree Mukteswara Temple
Mythology is what drives tourists crazy! It is because you get an opportunity to dive into a bygone era. Shree Mukteswara is one of the finest temples in Odisha, known for its Kalinga architectural style. It is the place where you can see intricate carvings, celestial nymphs and mythological creatures.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it houses a Shiva Lingam. It is one of the best temples where you can learn about the craftsmanship of Odishan artisans. Devotees seek mukti (salvation), as the temple’s name itself is Mukteswara (seeking salvation).
4. Konark Sun Temple
An architectural wonder awaits your presence! Konark Sun Temple is one of the extraordinary temples in Odisha. Known for its jaw-dropping construction and intricate details, it tops the list of tourist places in the state. It is dedicated to the Hindu Sun god and the structure is God’s chariot.
You can witness amazing carvings of wheels and horses representing a chariot. As you visit this place, you might get to hear stories of celestial beings and mythological characters. It also depicts various scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Interestingly, the wheels can calculate the time due to the cast of the shadow.
After visiting the Konark Sun Temple, you must experience the coastal beaches adding to the glory.
5. Shree Jagannatha Temple
The majesty of Shree Jagannatha Temple is known to the world. Whether it is defying the laws of science or questioning the wonders of nature, the temple fits it all! Being one of the most popular temples in Odisha, it is dedicated to Lord Jagannatha and his siblings. The idols of the deities are made of wood and are replaced every 12 or 19 years.
The temple is also known to have the largest kitchen in the world, which prepares food for thousands of devotees. It is believed that you can hear the sound of waves inside the place of worship; however, there is no source of water nearby. So, get ready to explore many of the secrets of Jagannatha Temple. You can easily book hotels in Puri for a comfortable time.
6. Shree Parsurameswara Temple
It is now time to get back into history to discover the hidden truths! Being one of the oldest temples in the city, it attracts hundreds of devotees. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is best known for its architectural beauty. Walk through and you can notice carvings of gods and goddesses.
Some carvings might just astonish you, as they look totally out of this world! What’s more? Shree Parsurameswara Temple also has a vimana (tower) adorned with the grandeur of intricately carved scenes. It also has a porch known as Jagamohana, which leads to the main Shiva Lingam. The natya mandir (dancing hall) is also used for gatherings.
7. Shree Maa Baliharachandi Temple
Every place of worship has a unique meaning and story! Shree Maa Baliharachandi Temple is no exception to this fact. Bali means sacrifice and Harachandi means a fierce form of goddess. It is dedicated to the goddess Baliharachandi, another form of Durga.
Locals and tourists visit the temple to seek blessings and get rid of troubles. It is also believed that the goddess takes away evil energies and obstacles once you offer your prayers. Built in a traditional Odia style, it sure is one of the best temples in Odisha for a spiritual time.
With many tourist places and points of interest, you must plan a vacation here.
8. Rajarani Temple
As the name suggests, Rajarani Temple is a divine combination of red and gold sandstones. What’s surprising? The temple is not dedicated to any specific deity. It is popularly known for its sculptural beauty. From the scenes of the epic Ramayana to celestial beings, the walls narrate stories of the unknown.
It is one of the ideal temples in Odisha to witness a blend of Nagara and Kalinga architectural styles. The pillars here are intricately designed, showcasing the legacy of Indian history. It literally transports you to the world of glory and imagination. So, get ready to witness one of the unique temples in Odisha.
9. Maa Samaleswari Temple
Located in Sambalpur, Maa Samaleswari Temple is one of the revered temples in Odisha. It is dedicated to Goddess Samaleswari, an incarnation of Goddess Shakti. It is believed that the deity protects Sambalpur from evil forces and stands for righteousness. That’s exactly why it remains crowded with locals.
You can attend the aarti or simply offer your prayers here. What’s more? The intricate carvings add to the beauty of this place. You can also find many other shrines dedicated to different Hindu deities. Even after being renovated several times, it does not forget to glorify the blend of Odia and North architectural styles.
10. Brahmeswara Temple
An awe-inspiring structure is something that sets Brahmeswara Temple apart from all other places. It is one of the best temples in Odisha, known for its exquisite carvings and decorative motifs. Surrounded by lush greenery, it is an ideal destination to pray and then rejuvenate with your loved ones.
It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and also has a few sculptures of different deities. What makes it interesting is its construction, which includes a vimana, a courtyard and a mandapa. It is a lesser-known place of worship, so there’s less crowd in the temple.
Do you love to explore spiritual places? If yes, rich temples in India have to be on your list.
11. Sri Ram Temple
Visit one of the simplistic temples in Odisha where all you feel is tranquility. Sri Ram Temple is a great place of worship dedicated to Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Lakshmana. It is best to visit in the late evenings to attend aartis or hear the rhythmic bhajans.
The entryway is adorned with colourful sculptures making it a place of beauty. It is also lit up in the evenings, thereby offering an illuminating wonder. It gets super crowded during festivals and important days for the deities.
12. The Leaning Temple of Huma
You must have heard of the Leaning Tower of Pisa and we have a smaller version of it! The Leaning Temple of Huma is an architectural wonder as it is constructed in such a way that it tilts from one side.
What’s more? While some believe it to be magical, others believe it is a rare phenomenon due to the influence of a nearby river. It houses the divine Shiva Lingam, thereby attracting many devotees on Mahashivratri. Being one of the extraordinary temples in Odisha, it does hold a special place in folklore and ancient stories.
13. Sarala Temple
As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Sarala, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. According to the legend, a sage named Sarala Das built this temple for the goddess. Since then, people have often wondered about its creation and construction.
Being one of the most famous temples in Odisha, it is best known for the idol of Goddess Sarala. You can watch the beautiful ornaments and glory of the divine goddess. Sarala Durga Puja is an annual festival inviting hundreds of devotees. Moreover, the temple also has other shrines for Hindu deities.
14. Kedara Gouri Temple
Popularly known as Kedareswar Temple, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is one of the Pancha Kedaras, representing a different manifestation of Lord Shiva. That is also another reason why locals and tourists flock to this temple every year.
You also get an opportunity to seek blessings from various Hindu gods and goddesses inside the temple. What’s more? A spacious green area right outside the temple is just perfect for therapeutic experiences. Vimana and carved sculptures sure add to the intrigue.
15. Bhaskareswara Temple
Being on the list of ancient temples in Odisha, the Bhaskareswara Temple is believed to have been constructed in the 8th or 9th century AD. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, you can see traditional Odia architectural styles here. What’s more? It is the charming location of the temple.
It is situated on the banks of the Mahanadi River, thereby offering a pleasant environment to visitors. The picturesque backdrop just makes it perfect for photography, rejuvenation or a day out. Away from the urban areas, this place truly encapsulates the beauty of Odisha like never before!
16. Shree Ananta Basudev Temple
The state is home to many temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. However, here’s where you can find Lord Krishna too! Shree Ananta Basudev Temple is one of the finest temples in Odisha. It offers a unique blend of Odia architectural styles from different regions of the stage. The main deity is Lord Krishna with Goddess Radha.
It is also one of the busiest places for spiritual retreats. You can indulge in bhajans, lectures or dance performances. Hundreds of devotees pay their respects on Janmastami. That’s also when the temple is decorated with vibrant flowers.
17. Maa Cuttack Chandi Temple
Goddess Chandi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga, resides at one of the famous temples in Odisha. Maa Cuttack Chandi Temple is a significant place of worship known for its Odia architecture. It is believed that King Mukunda Deva built this place of worship.
The deity is worshipped with a number of flower garlands and ornaments. The temple turns into a vibrant place during the Navratri festival. It is believed that goddess Chandi blesses devotees with prosperity, well-being and protection from the evil forces.
18. Shree Singhanath Temple
It is the serene location of the temple that makes it a place of beauty! Shree Singhanath Temple is one of the famous temples in Odisha. You need to walk through a well-constructed bridge to reach the temple. The journey often attracts tourists to capture memorable moments.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is believed that the temple was built through manifestations and miracles. You sure get an opportunity to hear different stories about the temple. Located near the Mahanadi River, you can find naughty visitors like monkeys here.
19. Nilamadhaba Temple
Get ready to witness the majesty of Lord Shiva at one of the famous temples in Odisha. Nilamadhaba Temple is known for its marvellous Kalinga architecture. As per Hindu mythology, it is known that Lord Jagannath resided in Kantilo during an attack. The place was then known as Nilagiri and that’s how the temple got its name.
The place of worship has an assembly hall and a natya mandir used for gatherings. Interestingly, it is also part of the Char Dham pilgrimage yatra in Odisha, which covers Puri, Bhubaneswar and Konark as well. The lush green landscape around the temple adds to the beauty.
20. Shree Biraja Temple Shakti Peeth
As the name suggests, Shree Biraja Temple is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India. It is believed that the navel of Sati fell here, making it a blissful site. The word Biraja is derived from the Sanskrit term Viraja, which means tranquil.
Since the goddess is known for her calm nature, that’s how the temple got its name. Interestingly, instead of Shiva Lingam, Siddha Bhairava is worshipped here. It also houses other deities, including Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman and more.
21. Mahadev Chandrashekhar Temple
Located near the eastern hills, Mahadev Chandrashekhar Temple is a prominent place of worship. It is best known for its unique architecture and spacious surroundings. It stands tall by embracing the cultural heritage of the state. Being one of the divine temples in Odisha, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
You can witness locals and tourists offering prayers and performing rituals here. Intricate carvings take you back to the ancient era. Various mythological stories are narrated with intricate details. Maha Shivratri is celebrated with absolute glamour.
22. Khandagiri Jain Temple
How can you ever miss one of the famous Jain temples in Odisha? Khandagiri Jain Temple is a renowned place of worship that attracts thousands of devotees. You get an amazing opportunity to watch the rock-cut caves. Carved out of rocky hills, these caves were used by Jain monks for prayers.
What’s more? The caves still have several sculptures allowing you to learn more about Jainism. You can also see inscriptions and carvings depicting the Jain Tirthankaras. Rani Gumpha is a significant place as it narrates the life of Lord Mahavira. The serene atmosphere adds to the beauty of this place.
Temples in Odisha take you back to the bygone eras; to the stories of celestial creatures and mythology. So, get ready to seek blessings, solace and spiritual bliss.
