Rajarani Temple, located in the heritage-rich city of Bhubaneswar in Odisha, is a magnificent example of ancient Indian architecture and artistry. Dating back to the 11th century, this temple stands out for its lack of a presiding deity and is admired more as a monument of art and culture than a traditional place of worship. Surrounded by lush gardens and cultural history, it attracts tourists, historians, and art lovers from across the country and the world. Here is a detailed guide for anyone planning to explore this architectural marvel.
Temple About
Rajarani Temple is an 11th-century Hindu temple located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, known for its architectural elegance. Though no deity is worshipped currently, it is believed to have been associated with Shaivism.
Temple Description
Built from red and yellow sandstone locally known as "Rajarani", the temple is a prime example of Kalinga architecture. The structure features a central shrine (vimana) and a hall (jagamohana). Its walls are adorned with finely carved sculptures of celestial beings, women, and musicians, reflecting the richness of Odisha’s temple art.
Temple Specialty
Unique architecture without a presiding deity
Carvings depict love and musicians, earning it the nickname "Love Temple"
Known for Kalinga style with a rekha deula and pancharatha plan
Hosts the Rajarani Music Festival annually
Temple Address
Rajarani Temple, Tankapani Road, Bhubaneswar, Odisha – 751002, India
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)
Latitude: 20.2499° N, Longitude: 85.8442° E
Temple Timings
Open all days: 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Temple Sevas
As there is no active deity, there are no regular rituals or sevas performed here. However, the temple is maintained for heritage, tourism, and cultural festivals.
Travel and Amenities
Traveling Facilities
Good road connectivity via NH-16
Auto-rickshaws, app cabs, and buses available in Bhubaneswar
Local guided tours available
Food Facilities
Several local restaurants and dhabas nearby
Street food and traditional Odia cuisine available around the temple area
Stay Facilities
Plenty of hotels, guest houses, and lodges in Bhubaneswar
Budget to luxury options available near temple and railway station
Connectivity
Nearby Railway Station
Bhubaneswar Railway Station (around 5 km away)
Nearby Airport
Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (approx. 4 km)
Nearby Bus Station
Baramunda Bus Stand, Bhubaneswar (around 8 km away)
Bus Routes to Temple
Regular OSRTC and private buses to Bhubaneswar from major cities in Odisha and neighboring states
Local buses available to Tankapani Road where the temple is located
Train Routes to Temple
Bhubaneswar Railway Station is connected to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Mumbai
Local transport available from the station to the temple
Airways to Temple
Regular domestic flights to Bhubaneswar from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad
Airport to temple distance: approx. 15–20 minutes by taxi
Nearby Cities to Temple
Cuttack (25 km)
Puri (60 km)
Konark (65 km)
Khurda (30 km)
Nearby Visiting Temples & Places
Lingaraj Temple
Mukteswara Temple
Brahmeswara Temple
Kedar Gouri Temple
Odisha State Museum
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
Nandankanan Zoological Park
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March (pleasant weather)
Ideal time during Rajarani Music Festival in January
Shopping Famous For
Applique work from Pipli
Silver filigree from Cuttack
Sambalpuri and Bomkai sarees
Stone and wood carvings
Local handicrafts and tribal jewelry
Rajarani Temple is more than just a structure of stone; it is a silent storyteller of Odisha’s glorious cultural and artistic heritage. Whether you are an architecture lover, a history enthusiast, or a casual traveler, visiting this serene and sculpturally rich temple is a journey through time. With excellent connectivity, nearby attractions, and cultural festivals, Rajarani Temple stands as a must-visit gem in the temple city of Bhubaneswar.
