15 Famous and Must Visit Temples In Odisha

Many of us are familiar with the classical dance form Odissi from Odisha. But did you know the temples of Odisha are known for their architectural brilliance and spiritual significance? Yes! People from all over the world visit the temples in Odisha because they are fascinating, revering and imposing with their unique architecture and sculptures. You can also see many devotees gathered in most of the temples because of their significance and mythological references. So, go through this article to learn more about the temples in Odisha and add them to your bucket list. Read on!

Famous Temples In Odisha That Are Amazing To Visit

15 Top and Popular Temples in Odisha to Visit:

Whether it is the intricate details, colourful designs or astounding architecture, the temples in Odisha are a must-visit. Because the Kalingas ruled the state for a long time, you can see their influence in the temple’s architecture. So go through all the intricate details of these temples before visiting them.

1. Konark Sun Temple:

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The Konark Sun temple is known for its marvellous architecture built in the 13th century. As the name indicates, this temple is dedicated to the Sun god. Compared to the architecture of other temples, this temple’s architectural style is unique because it is built in the shape of the sun’s chariot. Built-in the Kalinga architectural style, this temple is called ‘Black Pagoda’ by the Europeans.

The walls of this temple have erotic sculptures, and you will be able to tell the time during the day and night with the help of the sundials carved on the temple. The design structure of the sun temple allows the sun rays to fall on the temple’s sanctum directly.

Temple Address: Konark, Odisha 752111.
Darshan Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM.
Dress Code: Preferable traditional wear.
How to Reach From Nearest City:

The temple is 60 km away from Bhubaneshwar and 35 km from Puri. To reach the temple, several trains, buses, and taxis are available from these cities.
Reaching Konark via cab is the best way.

Approx. Visit Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Konark dance festival.
Temple Details: 06758 236 821.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Chandrabhaga beach, Konark temple museum, Ramachandi beach.

2. Jagannath Temple, Puri:

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Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of Odisha’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations. Thousands of people visit the temple of Lord Vishnu every year, and it has high spiritual significance. The priests of this temple changed the flag by climbing the temple, which is said to be as high as a 45 stored building. It is believed that the temple shuts down for 18 years if this flag-changing ritual is missed even for a single day.

The unique facts about the Jagannath temple are that the flag flows in the wind’s opposite direction. During the daytime, the temple doesn’t create a shadow. When you are inside the temple, you cannot hear the sound of ocean waves.

Temple Address: Bhanumati way, Puri, Odisha, 752002.
Darshan Timings: 5 AM to 11 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional attire.
How to Reach From Nearest City:

The temple is 56 km away from the Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhubaneshwar. You can take a cab to reach the temple.
The nearest railway station is in Puri, and there are several trains from several cities in India.
Puri is connected to all the major cities by a state highway to reach the temple.

Approx. Visit Duration: Two hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Jagannath rath yatra,
Temple Details: 0674 251 1166.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Chilika wildlife sanctuary, Sudarshan craft museum, Narendra Sarovara, Puri beach.

Read: Famous Beaches in Odisha

3. Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar:

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Lingaraja temple in Bhubaneswar is one of the largest temples in Odisha, whose construction is dated back to the 8th century. Similar to most south Indian temples, the temple has a Dravidian Gopuram, and the temple is built in the sanctuary tower shape. In addition, the temple’s interior and exterior walls contain several carved figures. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvathi and Lord Shiva, but several other deities are also present inside the temple.

The temple walls contain the carved structures of Goddess Durga, Chamunda, Bhairava and other deities. The temple has tank water that is said to cure physical illness with its healing powers. There are a thousand Lingas known as Sahastralingas in its courtyard.

Temple Address: Lingaraj Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
Darshan Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional attire.
How to Reach From Nearest City: The nearest airport to the temple is the Bhubaneshwar airport, and the nearest railway station is the Bhubaneshwar Railway station. You can take a cab or bus to reach the temple.
Approx. Visit Duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Shivaratri.
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Ratnagiri Buddhist Excavation, Ashokam rock edict, Dhaulagiri Hills, Ekamra Heritage walls.

4. Ram Mandir, Bhubaneswar:

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The Ram Mandir is known for its beautiful architecture located near Kharvel Nagar. The temple precincts have Lord Rama, Lord Lakshman, and Goddess Sita, and the devotees have the opportunity to worship them. In addition, the temple complex has several other Hindu deities, including Lord Hanuman and Lord Shiva. Furthermore, the temple flanks have a well-kept garden where you can have a spiritual and tranquil experience.

Temple Address: Janpath Road, Jan Path, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Darshan Timings: 6 AM to 9:30 PM.
Dress Code: Preferably traditional.
How to Reach From Nearest City: The Bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik Airport is 5 km away from the temple. However, you can take local transportation to reach the temple because it is located in the city’s centre.
Approx. Visit Duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Ram Navami,
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Nandankanan zoological park, Iskcon Temple, Museum of tribal arts and artefacts, Udayagiri caves, and Orissa Modern Art gallery.

5. Maa Tarini Temple, Ghatgaon:

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The Maa Tarini temple in Ghatgaon is positioned on the banks of River RUshikulya. It is considered one of India’s Shakthi Peethas. It is believed that this is the location where Sati’s breasts fell when she was dismembered with Sudarshan Chakra after the Daksha Yagna. In this temple, Chaitra Mela is celebrated with great pomp. It was built in the 17th century with 999 steps and is considered a wish-fulfilling temple.

Temple Address: Temple Road Dt, near Rushikulya River, Raipur, Purusottampur in Odisha.
Darshan Timings: 5 AM – 12:25 PM; 2 PM – 9:45 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional attire is preferred.
How to Reach From Nearest City: Bhubhaneshwar is well connected to all the major cities of India through regular flights. The nearest railway station to the temple is the Harichandarpur railway station – 17 km.
Approx. Visit Duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Makara Sankranti, Raja Sankranti, MahaVishuba Sankranti, AsadhiParba, Durga Puja(Shardiya Navratri).
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Gopalpur sea beach and Jiranga Monastery.

6. Brahmeswara Temple, Bhubaneswar:

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Brahmeswara temple’s construction dates back to the 9th century, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the oldest temples in Odisha, established during the Somvanshi Dynasty. This temple is a must-visit place for those who love mythology and history. This temple has historical and architectural significance because it is carved out of a single stone.

The Brahmeswara temple is built in the Lingayat architectural style, similar to the Mukteshwar temple. The interior and exterior walls of this temple have many beautiful carvings. It also has beautifully designed banquets and dance halls.

Temple Address: Tankapani Rd, Siba Nagar, Brahmeswarpatna, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
Darshan Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM.
Dress Code: Preferable traditional attire.
How to Reach From Nearest City: You can hire a cab from the Bhubaneshwar airport to reach the temple, 10 km away. In addition, all the major cities and towns are connected to Bhubaneshwar through excellent rail connections.
Approx. Visit Duration: One to two hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Lingaraja temple, Raja rani temple.

7. Parashurameshwara Temple, Bhubaneswar:

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The Parashurameshwars temple has the Nagara style of architecture built in 650 AD and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple walls have several intricate designs and Saptamatrikas in the form of Goddesses. Excluding Ketu, the temple also has carvings of eight planets from Vedic astrology. It is believed that Lord Vishnu’s avatar, Lord Parashurama, got penance from Lord Shiva after punishing himself.

The Parashurameshwars temple is the first temple with a worshipper’s hall. Like most South Indian temples, it also has a tower and Vimana as part of its structures. In addition, the temple walls have beautifully carved motifs with intricate details.

Temple Address: Near Bindu Sagar Pond, KedarGouriVihar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
Darshan Timings: 5 AM – 6 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional attire.
How to Reach From Nearest City: You can take an autorickshaw or a car from the Bhubaneshwar transport centre to reach this temple.
Approx. Visit Duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Parasumashtami.
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Jaganmohan worship hall, KedarGouri park, Mukteswara temple.

8. Mukteshwar Temple, Bhubaneswar:

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Built-in the 950 AD during the Somvanshi Dynasty, the Mukteshwar temple is known for its stunning architecture. The temple is located on a hilltop dedicated to Lord Shiva. Some parts of this temple have architecture built in the Buddhist style. The interior and exterior walls of the temple have ornamented Torana and elaborately carved structures. The temple’s insides have intricate details, ornate designs, and carvings that were done tastefully.

Temple Address: Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Darshan Timings: 6:30 AM – 7 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional attire.
How to Reach From Nearest City: The nearest airport to the Mukteshwar temple is the Pantnagar airport at 94 km. You can take a taxi from the airport to reach the temple.
Approx. Visit Duration: 30 minutes.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: January.
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Ekamara heritage walls, Lingaraj temple, Dhaulagiri hills.

Read: Best Odisha Waterfalls

9. Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar:

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Rajarani temple has erotic carvings of men and women, earning the name ‘Love Temple’ built in the 11th century. The temple doesn’t belong to any particular sect, and there are no idols or sculptures present inside. The stunning architecture of this unique temple is stunning built-in reddish-gold sandstone. There are two structures and a hall known as Jagamohana in the Rajarani temple. The different moods during the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are sculpted on the walls.

Temple Address: Tankapani Rd, near BOI ATM, KedarGouriVihar, Rajarani Colony, Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
Temple Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM.
Dress Code: No restrictions.
How to Reach From Nearest City: The temple is 6km away from the Biju Patnaik airport. You can also reach the temple by train, and the nearest railway station is the Bhubaneshwar railway station. Bermuda bus stand in Bhubaneshwar is the nearest bus stop.
Approx. Visit Duration: One or two hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Raja rani music festival.
Temple Details: NA
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, Lingaraja temple.

10. Gundicha Temple, Puri:

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Gundicha temple in Puri, Odisha, is one of the most beautiful temples. The uniqueness of this temple is that it is crowded only during the annual Ratha Yatra. The Lord Jagannath from Hindu mythology resides in this temple. You can visit this temple any part of the year because it is empty. This temple is built in the name of Gundicha, Lord Krishna’s aunt, in Kalinga-style architecture with four carved structures. It is believed that during Ratha Yatra, Lord Jagannath resides in this temple for nine days. A single grey sandstone is used to build the entire temple. It is also called the ‘Garden House of Lord Jagannath’, and many mythological stories are linked.

Temple Address: Gundicha temple, Puri, Odisha 752001.
Temple Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional attire.
How to Reach From Nearest City: The temple is 1.5 km away from the Puri Junction Railway station. You can hire a cab or use local transportation to reach the temple.
Approx. Visit Duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Rath Yatra.
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Chilika lake, Konark beach, Chilika wildlife sanctuary, Puri beach.

11. ISKCON Temple, Bhubaneswar:

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Famous among Indians and foreigners, the ISKCON temple attracts numerous devotees. The snow-white temple complex presents you with a quaint ambience. You can witness religious aartis, meditation and Geetha classes which makes you want to spend more time. This temple houses Lord Jagannatha, Subhadra, GauraNithai, Lord Balarama and Lord Krishna. The temple is built in the shape of a half-open lotus with white marble making it an architectural beauty.

Temple Address: NH-5, Near Krishna Tower, IRC Village, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751015.
Temple Timings: 8 AM to 9 PM.
Dress Code: No restrictions but preferably traditional.
How to Reach From Nearest City: Bhubhaneshwar is well connected to all the country’s major cities through airlines, railways, and roadways. In addition, you can use local transportation to reach the temples.
Approx. Visit Duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Temple Details: 9337318403.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Museum of tribal arts and artefacts, Ram mandir.

12. Dhabeleswar Temple, Cuttack:

Image Source: wikipedia

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Dhabaleswar temple in Cuttack of Odisha. Dhabala means white, and Eswar implies god. Therefore the name comes from The Dhabaleswar temple. Although there are some stone carvings in the temple from the 11th and 12th centuries, the Dhabaleswar temple was built in the 14th century. Located on the island 27km away from Cuttack, the temple was built as per the Kalinga Architecture style.

Temple Address: Canal Rd, Ranihat Colony, Cuttack, Odisha 753007.
Temple Timings: 5 AM to 09 PM.
Dress Code: Preferably traditional.
How to Reach From Nearest City: The temple is 17 km away from Cuttack railway station and 37 km away from the Biju Patnaik International airport. You can take cabs to reach the temple.
Approx. Visit Duration: One to two hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: All time of the year, Shivaratri.
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Doleshwar temple hanging bridge, DamadamaniPitha dam.

13. Taratarini Temple, near Brahmapur:

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The Taratarini temple’s sanctum has Tara and Tarini, twin sister Goddess, located in southern Odisha. The temple is filled with tourists, and pilgrims throughout the year, making it a popular attraction. To reach this beautiful temple, you will have to climb 999 stairs. Although the hill is under the shadows of the green plantation, it is fun to climb from foot to top.

Darshan Timings: 5 AM – 12.25 PM and 2 PM – 9.45 PM.
How to Reach From Nearest City: Bhubhaneshwar airport is the nearest airport, and the nearest railway station is the Berhampur railway station. You can take a taxi or bus from the airport or railway station to reach the temple.
Approx. Visit Duration: One hour.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Chaitra Yatra.
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Gopalpur beach, Dhabaleshwar temple.

14. Ananta Vasudeva Temple:

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Ananta Vasudeva Temple has historic origins and is one of the places to visit in Bhubaneshwar. Lord Krishna, Lakshmana and Subhadra are the principal deities of this temple built in the 12th century. This is a Vaishnava temple with architecture similar to the Lingaraja temple. Built during the Ganga dynasty, this temple’s compound has many small shrines. A Lord Balarama sculpture stands on top of the seven hooded serpents and several other sculptures bearing mythological importance.

Temple Address: Gouri Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002.
DarshanTimings: 6:30 AM – 7 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional attire.
How to Reach From Nearest City: The temple is 4.5 km away from the Bhubhaneshwar railway station, and you can take local transportation to reach the temple.
Approx. Visit Duration: One to two hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: Janmashtami.
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Duduma waterfall, Konark beach, Lingaraja temple.

15. VaitalDeula Temple, Bhubaneswar:

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Dedicated to Goddess Chamundi, the VaitalDeula temple was built with Kalinga architecture in the 8th century. It is a rare temple with beautiful, intricate carvings, and it is also known as the Tina Munia Mandir. The Dravidian style of the South Indian temple is replicated in the tower of this temple, and the walls of this tower have erotic carvings. The figure of Goddess Durga is one of the stunning aspects of this temple.

Temple Address: Barhadanda Road, Old Town, Bhubaneswar.
Darshan Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM.
Dress Code: Traditional attire is preferable.
How to Reach From Nearest City: Bhubhaneshwar is well connected to all the major cities of India through airways, railways and roadways. State buses are available that take you to the temple. The Bhubaneswar railway station is 3 km away from the temple and 4 km away from the Bhubaneshwar International Airport.
Approx. Visit Duration: One to two hours.
Festivals & Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Temple Details: NA.
Other Attractions Near the Temple: Odisha State Museum, Biju Patnaik Park, Dhauli Shanti Stupa.

Read: Most Important Festival of Odisha

Odisha houses many ancient temples, a beautiful representation of old architecture and spiritual awakening. For example, Bhubhaneshwar, the state’s capital city, has more than 700 temples built between the 8th and 12th centuries. Plan a getaway to Odisha with the help of the temple guide we have provided. Also, don’t forget to let us know if you found this article helpful!

1. Why is Odisha also called the “Land of Temples”?

Ans: Odisha is also called the land of temples because the state has more than 700 temples. These spiritual places beautifully represent Kalinga-style architecture.

2. When is the best time to visit Odisha?

Ans: The months especially November, December and January, are the perfect time to visit Odisha. This is because the weather during those months is warm and dry