Temple About:
Mukteshwar Temple is a 10th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most important and architecturally significant temples in Bhubaneswar, known for its rich carvings and historical value.
Temple Description:
Built during the Somavamshi dynasty, the temple is small in size but an architectural gem. Its most iconic feature is the elaborately carved arched gateway (torana), unique in Indian temple design. The sanctum houses a Shiva Lingam, and the walls are adorned with carvings of ascetics, dancers, and deities.
Temple Specialty:
The intricately carved arched gateway is a unique and rare element.
Celebrated as the “Gem of Odisha architecture”.
Historically associated with Tantric practices and yogic meditation.
Hosts the prestigious Mukteswar Dance Festival every January.
Temple Address:
Mukteshwar Temple, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha – 751002, India
Temple Location (Longitude & Latitude):
Latitude: 20.2371° N, Longitude: 85.8415° E
Temple Timings:
Open daily from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Temple Sevas:
Daily Shiva Abhishekam
Rudrabhisheka
Archana and Arati
Special rituals during Maha Shivaratri and Shravan
Visitor Information
Traveling Facilities:
The temple is well-connected via road, rail, and air. Local transport options such as autos, taxis, and buses are readily available in Bhubaneswar.
Food Facilities:
Local eateries are available near the temple serving vegetarian and Odia cuisine. Temple prasad and seasonal festival offerings are also accessible.
Stay Facilities:
Bhubaneswar offers a wide range of accommodations – from budget hotels and lodges to luxury stays and government guesthouses (OTDC). Dharmashalas are available nearby for pilgrims.
Nearby Railway Station:
Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) – ~4.5 km from the temple.
Nearby Airport:
Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) – ~4 km from the temple.
Nearby Bus Station:
Baramunda ISBT Bhubaneswar – ~9 km from the temple.
Bus Routes to Temple:
Regular OSRTC and private buses are available to Bhubaneswar from:
Cuttack
Puri
Berhampur
Sambalpur
From the bus station, take a local auto/taxi to Old Town (Mukteshwar Temple area).
Train Routes to Temple:
Frequent trains from major Indian cities:
Kolkata
Delhi
Mumbai
Chennai
Hyderabad
Take an auto or cab from Bhubaneswar Railway Station to reach the temple.
Airways to Temple:
Daily flights to Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) from:
Delhi
Mumbai
Bangalore
Hyderabad
Kolkata
Chennai
Local transport from the airport to the temple is easily available.
Nearby Cities to Temple:
Cuttack – 26 km
Puri – 62 km
Konark – 66 km
Berhampur – 173 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Attractions:
Lingaraj Temple
Rajarani Temple
Brahmeswar Temple
Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves
Ekamra Kanan Botanical Garden
Odisha State Museum
Bindu Sagar Lake
Preferable Visiting Season:
October to March – best for weather and festivals like Mukteswar Dance Festival and Maha Shivaratri.
Shopping Famous For:
Pipili Applique Work
Silver Filigree (Tarakasi)
Sambalpuri and Bomkai Sarees
Stone and Wood Carvings
Tribal Handicrafts
Mukteshwar Temple is not just a place of worship but a cultural and architectural marvel that offers a serene and spiritually enriching experience. With its artistic beauty, historical significance, and easy accessibility, it stands as a must-visit destination in Bhubaneswar. Whether you are a devotee, an art lover, or a traveler seeking heritage, Mukteshwar Temple promises a memorable and soul-touching journey.
