Lingaraj Temple is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Harihara, a combined form of Shiva and Vishnu.
Temple Description
Built in the 11th century CE, this architectural marvel showcases the Kalinga style of temple architecture. The main sanctum tower rises to 180 feet and is surrounded by numerous smaller shrines within the large temple complex. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple premises but can view it from a platform outside.
Temple Specialty
The deity is Swayambhu (self-originated).
Unique amalgamation of Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
Celebrated for the grand Rukuna Rath Yatra (chariot festival).
It is a living temple with daily rituals and festivals.
Temple Address
Lingaraj Temple, Lingaraj Road, Old Town, Bhubaneswar – 751002, Odisha, India
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
20.2332° N, 85.8336° E
Temple Timings
Open: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM & 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Best time to visit: Morning hours for darshan and evening for aarti
Temple Sevas
Abhishekam (ritual bathing)
Archana (offering prayers)
Bhoga (food offerings)
Rudrabhishek
Special pujas during Mahashivratri and Rukuna Rath Yatra
Traveling Facilities
Well-connected by road, rail, and air
Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses available locally
Tour guides available at temple premises
Food Facilities
Temple prasad available (especially during festivals)
Nearby restaurants offer vegetarian Odia cuisine
Street food and snacks available outside the temple
Stay Facilities
Budget and luxury hotels in Bhubaneswar city
Dharamshalas and guesthouses in Old Town area
Online hotel booking options available
Nearby Railway Station
Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) – approx. 4 km
Nearby Airport
Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (BBI) – approx. 3.5 km
Nearby Bus Station
Baramunda Bus Stand – approx. 7 km
Master Canteen Bus Stop – around 4 km
Bus Routes to Temple
Buses from all major Odisha towns to Bhubaneswar
Local city buses and autos to Old Town / Lingaraj Mandir stop
Train Routes to Temple
Trains from Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and other cities to Bhubaneswar Railway Station
Air Ways to Temple
Direct flights to Bhubaneswar Airport from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata
Nearby Cities to Temple
Cuttack – 30 km
Puri – 60 km
Konark – 65 km
Berhampur – 170 km
Nearby Visiting Temples & Other Places
Rajarani Temple
Mukteswar Temple
Kedar Gauri Temple
Vaital Deul Temple
Dhauli Peace Pagoda
Nandankanan Zoo
Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves
Kalinga Stadium
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March (pleasant weather)
Major festivals: Mahashivratri, Rukuna Rath Yatra
Shopping Famous For
Silver Filigree work (Tarakasi)
Pattachitra paintings
Handwoven Ikat textiles
Stone and wood carvings
Handicraft items and souvenirs at Ekamra Haat
Lingaraj Temple is not just a religious destination but a vibrant cultural landmark that represents the soul of Bhubaneswar. Whether you are a devotee, a history enthusiast, or a lover of architecture, a visit to this sacred site offers an unforgettable spiritual and aesthetic experience. The peaceful ambiance, grand rituals, and rich surroundings make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Odisha.
