Mukteshwar temple is an ancient temple located in the beautiful hill station of Mukteshwar.
This temple is almost 350 years old and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. And the best part? It’s perched on top of the highest point in Mukteshwar, which is approximately 2312 m above sea level.
As you climb up to the temple, don’t forget to capture some amazing pictures and memories of the breathtaking view from the hilltop. The temple also houses a white marble Shiva Linga with a copper yoni, as well as idols of other deities like Lord Ganesha, Brahma, Vishnu, Parvati, Hanuman, and Nandi.
Believe it or not, the Mukteshwar temple is considered vital and holds a lot of significance for the committee of iron ore miners known as ‘agaries’. And if you’re looking for a place to practice meditation, this is the spot for you. You can even trek up to the hilltop where the temple is located, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of fruit orchards and forests along the way.
Legend has it that an enormous battle was fought between a demon and Lord Shiva, and though the demon was defeated, he attained Mukti. Many devtas, as well as the Pandavas, are believed to have visited the temple and graced it with their presence. The Mukteshwar temple is also believed to be built by the king of Somavamshi Dynasty, Yayati I, and is considered amongst the 18 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Hindu scripture.
The architecture of the temple is simply stunning and is a blend of world-class architecture. The temple showcases the change between the initial and later stage of the Kalinga style of architecture, which was the most prominent style of architecture in those times. The highly decorated arch, also known as the Torana, is a sign of Buddhist architecture, and comprises beautiful carvings of women, ornaments, and other sculptures.
And the roof, known as Jagamohana, is a unique assembly hall that is just as stunning as the rest of the temple.
If you’re planning a visit, the best time to go is during the months of October to April when the Mukteshwar Utsav is celebrated in the temple. This festival is celebrated for four days as a part of Ekamra Utsav, which is celebrated for those people of the state who believe in Hinduism.
And finally, for those couples who have been trying to conceive a child but are unable to do so, it is believed that they will be blessed with a child after offering prayers in the Mukteshwar temple with mud lamps in their hands.
So what are you waiting for? Hire an autorickshaw and make your way to this gem of Odisha architecture, the Mukteshwar temple. But make sure to avoid heavy monsoon and winter months for a comfortable journey. Happy traveling!