Odisha is renowned for its ancient temples. People from all corners of the world visit these temples in Odisha to explore their sculptures and architecture, holding so much spiritual significance. Their artistic work, culture, religiousness and history are worth seeing. The topmost must-visit temples whenever you land on this glorious land could be any of the following.
An important Hindu temple, the Jagannath Temple is dedicated to Jagannath, a form of Vishnu and one of the three supreme deities in Hinduism. Puri is on India’s eastern coast in the state of Odisha. Anantavarman Chodaganga, the first king of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, started the construction of the current temple, which was rebuilt from the tenth century onwards on the site of other temples in the compound but not the main Jagannatha temple. It never fails to impress tourists with its classic Oriya architecture. It is enclosed by two rectangular walls and has a surface area of approximately 4,00,000 square feet. In addition to the main shrine, many of the smaller temples in the complex will make you feel as though you have entered God’s own home. The annual Ratha Yatra, or chariot festival, at the Puri temple is well-known. During this event, the three main deities are pulled by huge, ornate temple cars.
It is among one of the most popular and sacred pilgrimage destinations in Odisha. The Lord Vishnu temple holds high spiritual significance, seeing visits of thousands of devotees every year. The temple doesn’t create a shadow during any time of the day.
Built in the 13 th century, Konark Sun Temple is dedicated to Lord Sun and is enriched with a marvellous unique architecture built in the Kalinga architectural style. It is the World’s UNESCO heritage site, and the sundials carved on the architecture depict the accurate time during day or night. In Indian iconography, Surya is frequently depicted as rising from the east and traveling across the sky in a seven-horse chariot. Twenty-four stone-carved wheels and seven horses give the temple the appearance of a chariot. On the temple’s plinth, in addition to the horses and wheels, you can admire the stunning and intricately carved reliefs of dancers, musicians, animals, and some erotic figures. Images of gods and goddesses, as well as cult icons, have been carved into the entire chariot.
It is one of the Shakti Peethas in India, situated on River Rushikulya, it is believed to be the spot where the breast of Sati devi fell. Also referred to as the ‘Wish Fulfilling Temple’, it was built in the 17 th century. There are many tourist attractions nearby the temple.
It is the largest temple in Bhubaneswar, dating back to the 8 th century and built in the shape of the sanctuary tower. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, there are many carved figurines on the interior and exterior walls of the temple.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple was built back in the 9 th century and the Lingayat architectural style. The architectural marvel is known to be carved out of a single stone only and has impressive carvings on the interior and exterior walls.
Also famously known as the ‘Garden House of Lord Jagannath’, it is one of the most magnificent temples in Odisha. It is built in the Kalinga style of architecture; the entire temple is made with a single grey sandstone.
The temple was built in 950 A.D., during the rule of the Somvanshi Dynasty, and a part of it was constructed in Buddhist-style architecture. It has many intricate carvings and sculptures, and statues of many deities are inside.
It was built in 650 A.D. in Nagara-style architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it has carvings of even eight planets on the walls from Vedic astrology, excluding Ketu.
Famously known as the ‘Love Temple’, it was built in the 11 th century containing erotic carvings of men and women. Built-in reddish-gold sandstone, it is a unique temple with striking architecture.
Dedicated to Goddess Chamundi, this rare temple has beautiful carvings built in the 8 th century in the Kalinga architecture style. It is also referred to as the ‘Tina Munia Mandir’.
It is a large famous temple visible from different parts of the city. The temple has many idols, including Lord Rama, Lakshman, Goddess Sita, Lord Hanuman, Shiva and other deities that attract
locals daily.
Built with 12 th -century art during the Ganga dynasty, it is a famous temple due to its historical origins and mythological significance and is visited by thousands of devotees from all over.
It is among one of the oldest Odisha temples on the calming banks of the Mahanadi river. Also, it is supposed to be the signature temple of Cuttack city.
Famously known as the 64 Joginis temple, this tantric temple is situated 20 km from the city in a hamlet called Hirapur. It is among one of those temples that has a separate history and perspective.
Dedicated to Goddess Ardhashini, this small temple is situated in the city of Puri.
The temple is situated on the Gandharmardhan hills in the Bolangir district in Odisha. It is famous for its scenic views and connection to Lord Shiva and Vishnu.
