Jungle Avengers Resort

Mukteswara Temple

Mukteswara Temple

Mukteswara Temple is a popular tourist destination in Bhubaneswar. This shrine, built in the 10th century, is known as a “Gem of Odisha” because of its magnificent architecture, outstanding sculpting work, and detailed carvings. This temple, dedicated to the Almighty Lord Shiva, is built in the Kalinga architectural style.

The Mukteswara Temple in Bhubaneswar is located next to the Parasurameswara Temple, another masterpiece from that time period. It is also close to the Lingaraj Temple, another prominent destination of devotion in the city.

This 35-foot temple is noted for its intricately adorned arched-shaped entryway, composed of red sandstone (locally known as Torana). The complex and magnificent carvings on the arch are just breathtaking and a testament to the outstanding craftsmanship of the time.

Mukteswara Temple’s History in Bhubaneswar

According to mythology, this temple was established by King Yayati I of the Somavamshi Dynasty, a dynasty renowned for constructing several spectacular temples in Bhubaneswar, also known as the Temple City of India.

Mukteswara Temple Architecture in Bhubaneswar

The temple is roughly 35 feet tall and designed in the Kalinga architectural style. It is known as a ‘Gem of Odisha’ because of its exquisite construction. Which includes beautiful carvings, diamond-shaped windows with lattice designs, and statues of figures from the classic Panchatantra stories.

Surrounded by an octagonal compound wall with elaborate carvings, the temple is said to have been created with a somewhat different design than its predecessors. Which was later copied in the construction of temples built in the city.

The temple’s entryway features a magnificent arched-shaped doorway (Torana). It is one of the few temples in the city built in the Pitha Deula style, which means the structure has a square shape with a pyramid-shaped roof. This is one of three unique Kalinga temple styles: Rekha Deula and Khakhara Deula.

The arched doorway, which demonstrates Buddhist architecture’s distinct influence, is flanked by two pillars with sculptures of smiling women wearing beads and jewelry. It is further embellished with sculptures of complex scrolls, feminine shapes, and peacock and monkey carvings.

The ‘vimana’ of the temple is square, with a raised platform and pilasters on the façades. Its 34-foot-long’shikara’ is adorned with sculptures of four ‘natrajas’ with ‘kirthimukhas.’ The temple’s inner chamber contains a gateway depicting Ketu with three hooded snakes.

On the eastern side of the temple grounds is a tank named Marichi Kunda, and a well can be found in the southwest corner. According to mythology, a plunge into Marichi Kund can cure female infertility. Other shrines on the property, in addition to the main temple, have Shiva Lingas.

Things to do in Odisha at Mukteswara Temple

The temple’s most notable feature is its exquisite architecture. Apart from paying homage to the famous ‘Shivlinga,.’ The most delicate thing to do at this sacred place is to explore its many portions and marvel at its architectural splendor.

The Mukteswara Dance Festival, hosted by Odisha Tourism, is an important feature of the temple that draws large audiences. It first took place in 1984. It has been organized consistently since 2004. It’s a celebration of the Odissi dance style. Tourists can purchase tickets to Bhubaneswar during January.

Entry Fees and Timings for Odisha Mukteswara Temple

The Bhubaneswar Mukteswara Temple has no admission price. Devotees are welcome to visit the shrine as early as 6.30 a.m. The shrine’s closing hour is 7.30 p.m., and is open every day.

How to Get to Mukteswara Temple in Odisha

The distance between Biju Patnaik International Airport and the temple is around 4.5 kilometers. It takes 13 minutes to get here using the taxi or auto-rickshaw services. The airport in Bhubaneswar is well connected to other cities around the country.

The Bhubaneswar Railway Station, on the other hand, is around 4.4 kilometers away from Mukteswara Temple and is readily accessible by auto-rickshaw or cab. Tourists can also use the Mo Bus, the local bus service, to visit this location. The Bhubaneswar Railway Station serves as the city’s primary station, regularly receiving trains from all across the country. To go to the temple in comfort, hire a private cab from one of the best car rental companies in Bhubaneswar.

With our all-inclusive Bhubaneswar tour packages, we at Jungle Avengers can help you cover all the must-see attractions in Bhubaneswar. You may also have customization done based on your budget and other needs. For more information about our holiday packages, Contact.

Also, Read More:- Shree Jagannath Temple

Scroll to Top