Top 10 Temples in Odisha for Spiritual Explorers

Also called India’s Best Kept Secret, Odisha is amongst the most stunning states in India. With its rich historical value, spectacular architecture, and religious tradition, Odisha attracts many tourists and archaeologists. Also famous as the Land of Temples, this gorgeous Indian state boasts a rich history and architectural grandeur. Odisha features several centuries-old temples, including the Jagannath Temple and Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Each of these temples has a unique significance and architectural appeal, depicting a story of devotion, architectural grandeur, the region’s glorious heritage, and the eternal beauty of Indian artistry. The state of Odisha is also known for its divine celebration of the ‘Ratha Yatra' festival. However, there is a lot in the treasure trove of this beautiful state.

Best Temples in Odisha

If you are planning a trip, here is a list of the top 10 temples in Odisha that you must include in your tour plan.

• Lord Jagannath Temple
• Konark Sun Temple
• Rajarani Temple
• Lingaraja Temple
• Mukteswar Temple
• Ram Mandir
• Taratarini Temple
• Brahmeswara Temple
• Chausathi Yogini Temple
• Maa Samaleswari Temple

Lord Jagannath Temple

One of the oldest Hindu temples in India, Lord Jagannath Temple is amongst the Char Dhams, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Jagannath form. In the holy city of Puri, Odisha, the Puri Jagannath Temple was built by King Indradyumna in the 11th century. One of the most religiously significant places to visit in Odisha, Jagannath Temple reflects Kalinga architecture, a unique style, common in the Odisha region. With a soaring 65-meter height and inventively carved pillars, the temple offers a glimpse into the excellent artistry of the ancient era. The Jagannath temple of Odisha features a 20-foot-high chakra set in a way that the whole chakra can be seen from any part of the city.

Konark Sun Temple

Next in the list of the most iconic and famous temples in Orissa, Konark Sun Temple is designed like a huge chariot with seven horses and 24 intricately carved wheels. The architecture and archaeology of this beautiful ancient temple are so mesmerising that it has been registered as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Built by King Narasimhadeva in the 13th century, the Konark temple in Odisha is a true masterpiece of architecture and religious significance. Dedicated to the Lord Sun, the temple is believed to be the highest sanctum to worship Shri Surya. The site is planned uniquely, as the first rays of the sun fall directly on the temple sanctum. You can spend hours exploring the creativity of the Kalinga dynasty and praising the glorious days of Odisha’s architectural opulence.

Rajarani Temple

Located in Bhubaneswar, the Temple City in Odisha Rajarani Temple has a distinctive charm among tourists. Also known as the Indreswara, the temple was built in the 11th century around the Kalinga architecture and is secretly referred to as the Love Temple or Affection Sanctuary, as this temple features carvings of couples and women sculpted on the walls. With intricately carved sculptures and a serene ambience, this Bhubaneswar temple in Orissa is worth exploring. It is recommended to visit this temple during the Rajarani Music Festival, a music festival held by the Government of Odisha. This three-day cultural extravaganza gives tourists an opportunity to enjoy Indian classical music from all over the country.

Lingaraja Temple

Another name in the list of the top temples in Bhubaneswar, Orissa, Lingaraja Temple is dedicated to Lord Harihara, Hari (Lord Vishnu), and Hara (Lord Shiva). Built in the 11th century, Lingaraja Temple features a self-manifested Shivalinga, which is said to be 8 inches tall and 8 feet in diameter. The largest temple in Bhubaneswar, the temple was constructed by the rulers from the Somavamsi empire, with more additions from the Ganga rulers. It is an architectural wonder of Kalinga architecture, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. There are around 150 small temples in the complex and a number of Shivlings in the main courtyard. Those who seek spiritual energy and positivity must visit Lingaraja Temple in Odisha.

Mukteswar Temple

Another Bhubaneswar temple in Orissa, emerging as a popular attraction is Mukteswar Temple. This revered temple is called the gem of Orissa due to its exquisite sculpture work, impressive architecture, and intricate carvings. One of the oldest temples in Odisha, this gorgeous temple signifies the invention of the Kalinga style of architecture. This 35-foot temple was built by King Yayati I of the Somavamshi Dynasty in the 10th Century. Dedicated to the Lord Shiva, Mukteswar Temple features a square mandapa with a pyramid-shaped roof, and diamond-shaped windows, depicting figurines of characters from Panchatantra tales. The highlight of this ancient temple in Odisha is the glorious gateway, an arched masterpiece representing the Buddhist influence in Orissa.

Ram Mandir

One of the most famous temples in Orissa, Ram Mandir, is a stunning combination of modern and old-style Odishan architecture. With beautiful interiors and a saffron-coloured exterior, the Ram Temple portrays the sacredness and cultural richness of the Sanatan Dharma. Surrounded by beautiful and well-maintained gardens, this famous temple in Odisha offers a serene ambience for prayer and meditation. There are diverse festivals and events celebrated in the temple complex, such as Shivaratri, Ram Navami, Janmashtami, Dussehra, etc. If you want to experience the culture and colourful vibe of these festivals, do visit this temple during these events.

Taratarini Temple

Located on the Kumari hills, overlooking the Rushikulya River, Taratarini Temple is an ancient place of reverence and spirituality. Dedicated to Adi Shakti in the form of twin goddesses - Tara and Tarini, this magnificent temple is known as one of the major Shaktipeethas. With exquisite carvings, a square base, and a curved roof, the temple building reflects the Kalinga-style architecture. The temple is also known as a prominent tantric place where people come to seek spiritual enlightenment. This beautiful temple was established by two sages – Bharadwaja and Bhrigu who did penance here to invoke the goddesses Tara and Tarini. When you plan to visit the best temples in Odisha, do include them in your tour plan.

Brahmeswara Temple

Next in the Orissa temple list, Brahmeswara Temple is a must-visit religious place for anyone looking for an offbeat spiritual sojourn. Built in the 9th century CE, Brahmeswara Temple features a combination of Lingaya and Kalinga architectural styles. Made using sandstone, the temple has detailed stone carvings on the wall and front. The Brahmeswara Temple is divided into four sections - Jagamohana (prayer hall), Vimana (sanctum), Bhogamandapa (offering hall), and Natamandira (dance hall). With a huge courtyard, the pleasant fragrance of incense and the sound of chanting take visitors to a divine place. The serenity this temple offers is definitely blissful, making it a must-visit temple in Odisha.

Chausathi Yogini Temple

Located 15 km from Bhubaneswar in a village named Hirapur, Chausathi Yogini Temple is one of the most loved temples in Orrisa. Dedicated to the goddess Mahamaya, who is considered one of the Yoginis. The temple was built in the 9th century AD by Queen Hiradevi from the Bhaumakar dynasty and later renovated by notorious historian Kedarnath Mohapatra in 1953, to its existing form. It is an open-air shrine, circular in forms, having niches for 64 yoginis, women who practice yoga. The yoginis are considered as incarnations of Shakti, emerging from Lord Shiva and surrounding him in a shielding formation. Compared to other ancient temples in Orissa, Chausathi Yogini Temple features a more minimalist design yet reflects a powerful energy.

Maa Samaleswari Temple

Located on the banks of the Mahanadi River Sambalpur region, Samaleswari Temple is one of the most fascinating temples in Odisha. Built in the 16th century, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Samaleswari, who has been worshipped as Adishakti, Mahalaxmi, and Mahasaraswati from ancient times, in the region. The oldest Hindu shrine, like the Jagannath temple of Odisha, Samaleswari temple reflects the Odisha style architecture with a square sanctum but unique features related to the Sambalpur. Constructed with red sandstone, the temple bestows a serene and memorable sight to behold for visitors.

In addition to the ones mentioned in the above list of top 10 temples in Odisha, there are many other ancient temples and shrines that you can explore. If you want to enjoy a trip with peace of mind, look for the best Odisha tour packages, consisting of major temples in the region.