The traces of the events that have happened in Odisha, also known as Kalinga in the past, are everywhere. Since they are so widely scattered here, many different tourist attractions can be found. A few thoughtfully planned road trips are all that is required to thoroughly explore this beautiful place, which offers a wealth of breathtaking attractions. The majestic temples and pilgrimage sites, some of which have existed for centuries, are probably the most impressive of these. The best religious places in Odisha that you can travel to through roads are listed here.
Considering that the state is home to so many tourist attractions, Odisha has a lot to offer tourists. A popular draw for tourists is, among other things, the Holy Places of Odisha. Numerous devotees make pilgrimages to these locations in Odisha in addition to regular tourists. Many people travel from all over the world to visit the temples in Odisha. In actuality, there is never a shortage of people visiting the temples in the Bhubaneswar-Konark-Puri area. Along with the Golden Triangle, Odisha is the location of thousands of lesser-known temples.
If you’re in Bhubaneshwar, Puri, or any other place in Odisha, make sure to visit the top religious sites mentioned here.
- Sri Jagannath Puri Temple, Puri
- Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar
- Parasurameswara Temple, Bhubaneswar
- Bhaskareswara Temple, Bhubaneswar
- Ananta Vasudev Temple, Bhubaneswar
- Vaital Deul Temple, Bhubaneswar
- Kedar Gauri Temple, Bhubaneswar
- Brahmeshwara Temple, Bhubaneswar
- Sun Temple, Konark
- Dhauli Shanti Stupa
- Leaning Temple of Huma, Sambalpur
Sri Jagannath Puri Temple, Puri
One of the oldest and most well-known tourist destinations in Puri, Orrisa, is the Jagannath Temple. The Jagannath temple was constructed by Ganga dynasty member Ananta Varman Chodaganga Deva and is a place of worship for Lord Vishnu. The Jagannath Temple is one of Orissa’s most important and historic temples, and it is steeped in several ancient and enigmatic legends.
Priests from the Jagannath temple ascend the 45-story-tall temple dome every day to change the flag or Pataka. It always moves in the opposite direction of the wind and is situated at the top of the temple’s dome. According to folklore and traditional beliefs, the temple’s doors will be closed for 18 years if this rite is missed for one day. To date, the priests have not missed a single day of changing the temple’s flag.
You must consume the parsadam provided by the temple’s priests if you visit the Jagannath Temple. The parsadam is prepared using a traditional way, and it is delicious. To travel to Puri Temple you can get self drive a car rental in Bhubaneswar for smooth traveling.
Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar
This is the largest and most well-known temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in all of Orissa. It is located in Bhubaneswar and is a popular destination for worshipers. The temple’s 180-foot-tall main building is surrounded by a seven-foot-thick wall. One of the oldest temples in Orissa is Lingaraj Temple, which dates back to the second century. The temple complex is enormous and takes up a sizable amount of space. In the spacious courtyard, there are about 100 shrines. Jagamohana, Natamandir, and Bhogamandapa are the names of the other three principal buildings.
Parasurameswara Temple, Bhubaneswar
Another well-known temple in Odisha, Parasurameswara, is devoted to the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti. This temple, which belongs to the Parashurameshvara series of temples, was given to the city of Bhubaneswar sometime in about 650 AD. The Parasurameswara Temple honors both Shakti and Shiva despite being the home of Lord Shiva. Travelers should also note that this temple’s architectural design embodies the charm of the Nagara style, which was popular in 650 AD. The vimana, a bada, the curved spire atop the ceiling, and the sanctum are some of the key architectural elements that distinguish this temple as one of the most well-liked tourist destinations.
Bhaskareswara Temple, Bhubaneswar
The 7th-century Bhaskareswara Temple is situated in the city of Bhubaneswar. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva, and the 9-foot-tall Shivalinga is located there. Tourists are very impressed by the temple’s architecture, which resembles a Buddhist stupa in addition to the Shivalinga.
Ananta Vasudev Temple, Bhubaneswar
It was built in the 13th century by Queen Chandrika and is one of the earliest pilgrimages in Odisha. Lord Krishna is the main idol worshipped in this place. The carvings and Vaishnavite sculptures must be seen, and the temple bears many similarities to the Lingaraj temple.
Vaital Deul Temple, Bhubaneswar
Visit Vaital Deul Temple in Bhubaneswar if you’ve heard about Khakara-style architecture and wish to view some examples. Goddess Chamunda is the presiding deity of the temple, which was constructed in the eighth century. The trio of spires on top of this temple, which the locals refer to as Tini Mundea Deula, is what makes it stand out from other buildings.
Kedar Gauri Temple, Bhubaneswar
One of the eight Asthasambhu Temples in the state is Kedar Gauri Temple. Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri, also referred to as Kedar and Gauri, are the patron saints of the temple. You have to go on the pilgrimage during the auspicious time of the yearly procession commemorating the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Brahmeshwara Temple, Bhubaneswar
Another example of Oriya architecture can be found here. The Shivalingam is worshipped in the 11th-century Brahmeshwara Temple, which was built. Around the temple are four shrines. Many visitors to this temple stop by to appreciate the carvings.
Sun Temple, Konark
The Sun Temple at Konark is among the most fascinating pilgrimage destinations in Odisha. The temple is constructed in the shape of a huge chariot, and the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple, which is devoted to the Sun God, was constructed well before the 15th century.
Dhauli Shanti Stupa
Tourists from all over the world visit the Shanti Stupa in Dhauli, one of Odisha’s spiritual destinations. In collaboration with the Japanese Buddha Sangha, Kalinga Nippon Buddha Stupa was built this stupa in 1970. Two Ashokan pillars with two lions on top may be seen as you enter this Buddhist Peace Pagoda.
Leaning Temple of Huma, Sambalpur
The Leaning Temple of Huma must be considered when organizing your road travels to Odisha’s holy places. The temple, which honors Lord Shiva, was built in the 17th century. So yes, there is only one leaning temple in existence. The primary holiday observed here is Mahashivratri, which also hosts a large fair.
Conclusion
Numerous of these locations also offer fantastic tourist attractions and surrounding locations to explore, which you may visit on the same vacation. Consider renting a self-drive car from speedtoyzcars so that you may enjoy your trip without worrying. With this, you can save some money and make the most of your time there.