But the thing that’s common amongst all is the connection it holds with its people and tourists, as well as the calmness it provides on being blessed. Not necessarily you need to have a spiritual or religious inclination to tour the temples of Odisha. Only a strong liking for something special in terms of heritage, architecture, grandeur and history will also be enough to be enticed by Odisha’s temple culture.

Although it’s almost impossible to list down all the major temples of Odisha, herein we have tried to showcase the must-visit ones.

Jagannath Temple, Puri
This is the most renowned among all the temples in Odisha, for being the holy center of Lord Jagannath and for hosting the revered annual Rath Yatra festival. Your temple visit to Odisha will be incomplete if you miss out on the Jagannath Temple of Puri. Also, the Chaar Dhaam Yatra of Hindus can’t be completed without visiting here. That’s how significant and spectacular this holy place is.

Konark Sun Temple, Konark
Another place of high importance to the state is the Konark Sun Temple, which is a 13th century Sun Temple, and is shaped like giant chariot, which is exquisitely craved with stones, wheels, walls and pillars. The temple gets its name as “Black Pakoda” owing to the reason that it is constructed using black granite.

Maa Tara Tarini Temple, Berhampur
Apart from being one of the oldest pilgrimage centers, this temple is also considered to be one of the four major Shakti Peethas in India, and there are still several mysteries revolving around the temple site. Be here to witness the majestic temple located scenically on the Kumari Hills, and be blessed by Goddess Maa Tara Tarini

Dhabaleswar Temple, Cuttack
Situated nicely on the Dhabaleswar Island, on the banks of Mahanadi River, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and comprises of stone carvings which date back to early 10th and 11th centuries. It’s also one of the oldest temples in Odisha, and is located at around 37 kms away from Cuttack.

Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar
Built in Kalingan architectural style, this is one of the oldest temples of Odisha, and is dedicated to Lord Harihara, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. But what’s interesting about this temple is that the lingam here is believed to have been originated by its own. Hence the temple is also known as Swayambhu, wherein the deities of both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are worshipped.

As we have already mentioned that Bhubaneswar has plenty of temples to keep people fascinated. Apart from being at the Lingaraja Temple, you can also visit the Ram Mandir, Mukteswar Temple, Rajarani Temple, Chausathi Yogini Temple, Iskcon Temple, Ananta Vasudev Temple, Parashurameshvara Temple and many others.

This is just a consolidated list of all the major temples in Odisha. You’ll be surprised by all the rich grandeur and heritage in temples which the state provides. Visit any city or district here, and have the best spiritual tour of Odisha.

The post Some Of The Must-Visit Temples In Your Next Odisha Tour first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

Duration: 06 Nights/07 Days

The spellbinding and deeply relaxing Bhubaneswar city tour with temple visits

It is of no wonder that Odisha is dotted with some of the most spectacular architectural beauty of temples, which were supposed to be constructed way back in between 6th to 12th centuries AD. Famous for having some of the most eye catching and soul satisfying temples of the country, they are an expression of supremacy of the divine and architecture. Just mere think of the Kalinga architecture and its pattern and it would nothing be wrong to say that the capital city of Orissa, Bhubaneswar is also referred to as the city of temples and they are simply unique in both decoration and elevation details.

Indeed, the architecture in Odisha has its supreme reflection in the form of temples and few of them are among actually the finest in the nation. The top three when it comes to temple architecture, getting solace and satisfaction by being simply there and which are well acknowledged from ages in the sacred land includes Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri, meant to be constructed in 12th century, Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar, meant to be constructed during 11th century and the amazing Konark Sun Temple made up during 13th century. In a whole, Odisha temples actually got a unique identity in the map of the country attracting attention of millions of pilgrimages, devotees, scholars, architects and tourists from all parts of the globe. And opting for the well devised itinerary crafted by the best travel agency in Odisha to enjoy the full Bhubaneswar city tour to the fullest is indeed one option that could be considered for. To go through the Odisha tour itinerary, go through the following and in case of any concern or customization to be done in the same; do contact the famous travel agent – Best Choice Holiday any time.

Day to Day Itinerary Details:

Day 01: Bhubaneswar

Upon your arrival at the Airport/Railway Station, our representative will pick you up from there and let you do check-in at the hotel. Freshen up and afterward, proceed to the local sightseeing of the city tour involving visit to Mukteswar temple, Parsurameswar temple, Rajarani temple, Brahmeswar, Sidheswar, and also the much popular Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves. Enjoy the delicacies of the city and the overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Day 02: Bhubaneswar – Puri

After eating breakfast, proceed to Puri from the city and visit Lingaraja Temple, Dhauli Buddhist Stupa, Vaital Temple, Sakhigopal Temple and 64 Yogini Temple on the enroute. Once you reach Puri, do check-in at the hotel and freshen up. Enjoy the leisure time in Puri as per the choice by simply relaxing at the golden beautiful sand Puri beach or in hotel and go for some sightseeing and shopping. The overnight stay will be at the hotel in Puri.

Day 03: Puri

During morning after grabbing breakfast, make a visit to the famous Char Dham, Lord Jagannath temple, and other attractions of the city including Sunar Gourang Temple, Gundicha Temple, Loknath Temple, Bedi Hanuman Temple and Sankaracharya Temple. The overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Day 04: Puri – Konark – Puri

After breakfast, proceed to check out the world famous UNESCO Heritage Site, Konark Sun Temple and other attractions that will fall enroute from Puri to Konark including Ramchandi temple, Beleswar temple, Kapileswar temple and Kakatpur Mangala temple. Later, proceed back to Puri and the overnight stay will be there only in the hotel.

Day 05: Puri – Brahmagiri – Bhubaneswar

After breakfast, drive to Brahmagiri to check out the popular Alarnath temple and Bali Harachandi temple and then drive to Bhubaneswar city. On the enroute, get the chance to see the much acknowledged and visited Harachandi temple, Bata Mangala temple, and the overnight stay will be at the hotel in the capital city of Odisha.

Day 06: Bhubaneswar – Taptapani – Bhubaneswar

After breakfast, proceed to check out the popular and divine Shakti Peetha which is Tara Tarini, Nirmal Jhar, Bhagabati temple and Taptapani in Khurda. Drive back to the city Bhubaneswar and the overnight stay will be at the hotel.

Day 07:

Enjoy the breakfast and spend leisure time as you want to by doing shopping or relaxing. Our representative will take you back to the Airport/Railway Station as per the need and with lots of memories of the trip.

End of tour and services!

The post Odisha Travel Diaries: Bhubaneswar City Tour with Top Temple Visits first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

At present, the temple is under the supervision and management of Archaeological Survey of India and is a ticket based monument, meaning tourists have to buy the ticket in order to get entry in the temple. This beautiful temple has definitely something different and unique to offer to visitors and that’s what makes the place aside from others that one can easily find out and listened to about in Bhubaneswar, also been referred to as the temple city of the country.

History of the temple:

As per historians, the temple was constructed in between the 11th and 12th century, though the exact era has not been depicted. In fact, from this temple’s architecture, it is believed and been taken as the exemplary example for other temples in Central India including the famous Khajuraho temples and the Totesvara Mahadeo temple located in Kadawa. Earlier, this temple was known as Indreswara temple and in 1903, it has been renovated and refurbished. Even after so many years, the temple is highly visited and holds prestigious place and importance among the holy places in the city.

Architecture of the temple:

The overall structure of the temple has typology and deep meaning attached with it, which never fails to captivate the attention of historians. Constructed with the red gold coloured sandstone, it is made in the Pancharatha style. It is constructed on a raised platform, comprising two structures, amongst which the central shrine ‘Vimana’, the main sanctum is at an approximate height of 17.9 metres with a curvilinear spire on the roof rising to a height of 59 feet and the Jagamohana viewing hall with a pyramidal roof. On the exterior front of the main temple, three panels are there representing images of Lord Shiva dancing along with Goddess Parvati and some attendants playing musical instruments in the background. Even, on the Western end of the temple, there is a carving representing the holy matrimony of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. At the entrance of the temple, a Naga and a Nagini are present that actually led to the common belief especially among locals of the city that the Raja or the King, Rani or the Queen are always linked with the temple and this is why the temple is known as Rajarani temple. Though, historians never believed that. Aside from this, there are many other images on the walls of the temple involving slim and tall nayikas in different roles and moods. The most remarkable feature of this amazing place is the ‘Guardians of the Eight Directions’ sticking out from the base in eight different ways covering Yama, Indra, Agni, Varuna, Nirriti, Kubera, Vayu, and Ishana.

The famous Rajarani Music Festival held at Rajarani temple:

Rajarani music festival is widely acclaimed and famous annual celebration that is held every year at the Rajarani temple in between January 18 to January 20. It began in 2003 under the sheer guidance of BMC – Bhubaneswar Music Circle and is organized by the Department of Tourism of the Odisha Government. The equivalent emphasis was been laid on the Carnatic, Hindustani and Odissi style of classical music in the festival witnessing the active and enthusiastic participation of talented and dedicated professionals, musicians and artists coming from all parts of the nation to enjoy this splendid 3 day music festival. It is attended by a large number of visitors, not only from Odisha but also from each part of the country and worldwide.

How to Reach:

Located in the Khurda district in Bhubaneswar, the temple is easily accessible through any means of transportation including the buses, autos and cabs. The first step is to reach Bhubaneswar and then reach the temple.

• By Air – Biju Patnaik airport is located in the centre of the city and regular airlines fly back and forth daily from Bhubaneswar to other prominent cities including Kolkata, Hyderabad, Delhi, Varanasi, Mumbai, Nagpur, Chennai and more.

• By Road – The best means is to take Canter minibuses that are easily available from the bus stand leaving towards Konark or Puri.

• By Train – The rail connectivity is pretty good in the city and the railway station is also nearby. There are many trains that come to Bhubaneswar and heading to other cities.

• By cabs and private taxis – It could be one of the best and approachable ways to reach the temple from Bhubaneswar city. There are car rentals as well as travel agents like Best Choice Holiday providing such services and arranging your tours as per your expectations, so simply get in touch with them and use the services.

Time to visit the temple and Fees:

Rajarani temple is open all 7 days and the time to visit is in between 6:30 AM to 7 PM. There is no entrance fee for children below 15 years of age. For Indians, the entrance ticket is of Rs. 15 and for foreigners, it is Rs. 200.

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The Maa Durga idol in the temple has two hands, darting the chest of Mahishasura with one and with other, pulling his tail. One of her feet is on Mahishasura’s chest and the other is on a lion. The crown of the idol is featured with a crescent moon, Ganesha and a lingam. Known to cleanse and purify pilgrims visiting from all around, it is also famous as Biraja Kshetra or Viraja. Vaitarini River is flowing nearby Biraja temple. Lots of devotees offer their hair to the goddess here and the temple is also popular for Shraddha Karmas. As Nabhi/Navel of Sati fell here, so the place is also reckoned to as Nabhi Gaya. When Lord Vishnu performed Yagna on his heart and killed Gayasura, the feet of Gayasuras fell in Pda Gaya Pithapuram, Navel in Nabhi Gaya or Oddyana Peetha and the head at Gaya or Siro Gaya. For performing Shraddha Karmas, it is been said that do visit these three places for sure.

Nearby Important Temples:

• Brahma Kund – It is believed to be a holy place where Lord Brahma did Yagna and is nearby to Biraja temple. The pond is also famous as Nabhi pond and visited by devotees in large numbers.
• Sweta Varaha Swamy temple – It is another famous nearby temple to Biraja, visited by lots of people for getting blessings from deities.
• Jagannath temple – It is a famous pilgrimage spot located on the banks of Vaitarini River and also one of the Chaar Dhaams.
• Siddheshwar temple – It is one of the oldest Lord Shiva temples in Jajpur district in Odisha.

How to Reach:

Biraja Shakti Peetha is located near Jajpur district in Odisha, 110 km away from Bhubaneswar. The Jajpur bus stand is at a 2 km distance from Biraja temple. The nearest railway station to the temple is Keonjhar road railway station. The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar airport and private taxis and cabs could be always the preferable and convenient way of travel.

Festivals and Rituals:

The main ritual that is held in the temple is Sharadiya Durga Puja that starts on the night of Krishna Paksha Ashtami. This ritual lasts for 16 days, also famous as Shodasha Dinatatmika Puja. Most of the devotees and pilgrims prefer to visit here at the time of Durga Puja or Navaratri festival. The famous ‘Car Festival’ of the goddess is carried out at the time of Durga Puja here. Other festivals that are celebrated involve Nakshatra, Pana Sankranti, Shravana, Raja Parva, Prathamastami, Navanna, etc. Maa Devi is worshipped daily with following of Agama and Tantra traditions by the Jajpur Brahmins.

Best Time to Visit:

Though, devotees and people come here all throughout the year, but if you do want to attend any fair or festival of the temple carried out in Jajpur district in Odisha, a lot of rush prefer to come at the time of Durga Puja in September and October months.

Want to pay a visit and get blessing of Lord Durga in Biraja temple? Contact Best Choice Holiday, one of the best tour organizers of Odisha and seek the blessings of divinity and have a memorable time altogether.

The post Maa Biraja Temple in Odisha – A Historic Maha Shakti Peetha first appeared on Best Choice Holiday.

Lingaraja Temple – Constructed by the Jajati Keshari – Somavanshi king, it is 10th century temple made up from red sandstone and the architecture is simply exceptional prototype of Oriya style. Boasting of a spacious courtyard spread in more than 250,000 sq ft area and covered all around by fortified walls, there are over 50 smaller shrines in the temple all dedicated to Hindu pantheon. The altar of the main temple is been embellished with a humongous Shivling in granite, also been reckoned as ‘Swayambhu’. It is indeed a must-visit temple of Odisha.

Konark Sun Temple – Built by the King Narsimhadeva in the 13th century, this famous temple is also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is dedicated to Sun God and the architecture stands on 24 beautiful and intricately sculpted stone wheels, hauled by 7 powerful horses. The overall structure is adorned with different sculptures, both internally and externally. Surya’s three surviving images have been designed in order to capture the sun rays at dawn, noon and sunset. Moreover, it took in total 12 years by 1200 artisans to complete the temple.

Jagannath Puri Temple – It is been located in Puri, Odisha and is been one of the famous Char Dhaams or among the four sacred places of devotion and worship in the country. Constructed on a huge raised platform in the city, the structure is enclosed by a wall penetrated by four gates with big pyramidal structures over them. The building is been built in the form of Kalinga style, and the main altar has about 30 shrines of different sizes. This temple is been reckoned among the tallest structures in Indian subcontinent that is 214 feet above the ground.

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Rajarani Temple – The temple is been built in 11th century and the name is derived from Rajarani that is a kind of red sandstone used in the construction. The East facing shrine of the temple reflects the architectural beauty and splendour of the old Kalinga sculptures. The artwork of the temple is a bit different from others, and the best outstanding treasures are the standing astadikpalas on the Central façade end and on lotuses available with their mounts. A lot of travellers visit the temple in December during the Rajarani Music festival time.

Mukteswar Temple – Also been regarded as the twin temples of Siddheswar – Mukteswar, it is been built back in 10th century and the 35 foot high rise architecture made up of sandstone is been reckoned to be the crowning glory and prestige of Oriya architecture. The temple represents the perfect blend of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist architecture, in terms of their intricate carvings narrating tales of animal figurines as well as from Panchantrata. Ganesha’s standing idol is simply magical and the altar is been constructed in the Pancha Ratha style comprising five divisional walls all around.

64 Yogini Temple – When different parts of ancient India were in the pain of fallout and tantric cult, many regions of the Central and Eastern part introduced the built of different open air shrines and Yogini Temple is one of them that is located in close proximity to Bhubaneswar. It is built in 9th century, with a circular shaped monument with no roof, dedicated to 64 ‘yoginis’. Also been famous as Mahamaya temple, the interesting sculpture in the temple is of one-legged Shiva or Ekapada Shiva.

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Brahmeshwar Temple – The temple is been located to the East of the famous Lingraj temple, constructed by the ruling King’s mother in the respect of the mighty deity Lord Shiva – Brahmeshwar. For the first time, iron beams are used in the construction of the temple and the building is about 60 feet tall. Moreover, for the first time, iconography of dancers and musicians has been done on the temple walls. There were many tantric pictures on the western exterior and Lord Shiva and other deities were pictured in alarming postures.

Maa Tara Tarini Temple – It is not only been counted among the oldest pilgrimage centres of holy and mighty Maa Goddess but also as one of the four prime Shakti Peethas in the country. It is been situated on the banks of River Rushikulya in Ganjam district nearby Brahmapur city.

Ram Mandir – Located in the heart of the city Bhubaneswar, it has images of Lord Rama, Lord Lakshman and Goddess Sita. It is an ancient temple of the city and also has shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities.

Dhabaleswar Temple – This beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at the banks of Mahanadi River. The stone carvings on the temple date back to early 10th and 11th century.

Do make sure to must-see and get the blessings of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and other deities by visiting these temples whenever you are in Odisha. Planning a trip to Odisha? Connect with Best Choice Holiday this time, let them arrange a fully fledged package tour for you and your loved ones and be prepared to cherish the lifetime moments as per your desires and within your budget.

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