Bhubaneswar Lingaraj Temple

Lingaraj Temple is a temple of the Hindu god Shiva and is one of the oldest temples of the Temple City Bhubaneswar. It represents the peak of Kalinga style of architecture.The temple of Lingaraja, the biggest of all at Bhubaneswar is located within a spacious compound wall of latterite measuring 520 feet by 465 feet. The wall is 7 feet 6 inches thick and surmounted by a plain slant coping. Alongside the inner face of the boundary wall there runs a terrace probably meant to protect the compound wall against outside aggression.The temple of Lingaraja is by far the most notable monument of Bhubaneswar. Rising to a height of about one hundred and eighty feet and dominating the entire landscape it represents the quintessence of the Kalinga type of architecture and the culminating result of the architectural tradition at Bhubaneswar.It is the capital town of this magnificent state and is located on the eastern side. It flaunts some of the finest temples and shrines that are counted among the tourist attractions in Orissa. It is an exemplary instance of the blend of age-old customs and traditions and contemporary aspirations. Lingaraja temple, Rajarani temple, Parasuramesvera temple and Yogini temple, Mukteswar, Siddheswar and Kedargauri temples are the important temples here. Handicrafts Museum, Khandagiri-Udayagiri Caves, Orissa State Museum and Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the must watch tourist spots located here.Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Orissa, is situated in its eastern side. The city boasts of majestic temples and shrines, which form a major part of its tourist attractions. It serves as the perfect example of the fusion of age-old customs and traditions and modern aspirations. This is one of the basic reasons why tourism is Bhubaneshwar is gaining momentum day by day. People are coming to the city from various parts of India as well as the world to witness it unique splendor.
Lingaraj temple is one of the most popular temples of Orissa. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as ‘Lingaraj’. It is adorned with beautiful sculptures, which have been carved on the spire. Lingaraja temple is approximately 54.8 metres high and enshrines a huge statue of Lord Shiva, made up of granite. The idol is 8 feet in diameter and is placed on a platform that is about 8 inches above ground. The deity is bathed everyday with water, milk and bhang (marijuana).