Mukteswara Temple is a magnificent temple of Kalinga architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva in Bhubaneswar city of Orissa.
Built-in the 10th century AD, this temple has stood the test of time, still standing tall at 35 feet, it does radiate glory and charm! With beautiful sculptures and carvings depicting the various Panchatantra stories, it’s like a mini art gallery of its own.
And get this – it’s only 4 km away from Bhubaneswar Railway Station, making it easily accessible for us travelers. No need to break a sweat, just hop on and enjoy the ride.
Legend has it that this temple is considered one of the earliest temples of the Somavamsi dynasty. Scholars believe that this temple is the successor temple of Parasurameswara Temple and built earlier than the Brahmeswara Temple.
And let’s not forget about the magnificent torana, the decorative gateway that’s an arched masterpiece reminiscent of Buddhist influence in Orissa. It’s like a beautiful Instagram filter, but in real life! The thick-pillared, arched gateway is beautifully carved with strings of beads and other attractive ornaments with statues of smiling women in languorous postures. And the exquisite carvings and captivating sculptures inside the temple? Mind-blowing!
But wait, there’s still more! Siddheswar Temple is also situated in the northwest corner of the enclosure of Mukteswar Temple and houses an attractive standing figure of Lord Ganesh. The sanctum of the temple built in pancha ratha style is surrounded by five-divisional walls. The temple tower or shikhara is grouped by a row of miniature towers, which is surmounted by four rampant lions on the central ratha.