Lingaraj Temple
This temple is dedicated to Shiva as Lord Lingaraj. Lingaraja Temple represents the peak of achievement in Orissas middle period. The 54m spire of the temple dominates the Bhubaneswar landscape. Set in a walled compound, the Lingaraj is surrounded by many smaller shrines.
The Lingaraj compound has another outstanding temple, dedicated to Parvati. Open only to Hindus, the Lingaraj temple is the site of a major Shivaratri festival in February-March, On the night preceding the new moon thousands of pilgrims light lamps in a nightlong ceremony of devotion.
The Parasuramesvera Temple
A 7th century Shiva Temple, classical in style,one of the oldest in Bhubaneswar. Located close to the main Bhubaneswar to Puri Road, on the same side as the Lingaraj Temple, the Grove of the Perfect Beings is a cluster of about 20 smaller temples. It's the best preserved of all Bhubaneswar's ancient temples and has finely detailed bas-reliefs of elephant and horse processions and Siva images.
Rajarani Temple
Rajarani is a 'love temple', covered with coyly erotic carvings of women and couples. This 11th century Raja Rani temple is aesthetically endearing, sculpted with graceful feminine figures. It is surrounded by well-maintained gardens.
It's one of the best of the Bhubaneswar temples and is famous fro its ornate deul (sanctuary), decorated with some of the most impressive Orissan temples sculptures. This temple is no longer used for worship.
Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves
Twin hills honey-combed with Jain caves that reveal the sculptural art of the 2nd century BC makes an interesting study of the life and times of Jain ascetics. The coarse -grained sandstone which forms Khandagiri and Udayagiri rises nearly 40m above the surrounding lateritic and infertile plain. Khandagiri has 19 caves and Udaigiri has 44 caves.
Mukteswar, Siddheswar and Kedargauri Temples
Not far from the Parsuarameswar is the small 10th century Mukteswar Mandir, the Gem of Orissan architecture. The carvings of dwarfs are particularly striking. In front of the temple there is a beautiful arched architrave clearly showing a Buddhist influence. The walls are covered with figures of female warriors, erotic scenes, elephants, maidens and monkeys in various comic scenes.. The large green temple tank makes a perfect swimming pool.
The later Siddheswar Mandir is in the same compound. Although plainer than the Mukteswar, it has a fine Ganesh figure.
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