Bharateswar Temple, Bhubaneswar
Shiva (Shivalinga) temple · Bhubaneswar, Khurda, Odisha, India
Bharateswar (Bharatesvara) Temple is a Shiva temple in the Old Town of Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Wikipedia and the IGNCA/ASI documentation describe it as one of the earliest existing temples of Odisha, dated to the later half of the 6th century CE, in the time of the Sailodbhava dynasty.
It stands on the left side of the road from Kalpana Chowk to the Lingaraj temple, opposite the Ramesvara temple.
Faith & Tradition
Religious Significance of Bharateswar Temple, Bhubaneswar
The enshrined deity is a Shivalinga within a circular yonipitha. The IGNCA record calls it a living temple and notes that Sivaratri is performed here. Wikipedia likewise lists Shivratri among the rituals observed.
The survey also notes that the entrance is low, which a Wikipedia note explains as a belief that devotees should bow before the deity.
Heritage
History of Bharateswar Temple, Bhubaneswar
The IGNCA documentation assigns the temple to the Sailodbhava period and the later half of the 6th century, on the basis of its architectural scheme and an inscription on the lintel of the adjacent Laxmanesvara temple. The date rests on architectural evidence and is approximate.
The record lists it as a protected monument of Orissa State Archaeology, which was renovating the temple when the survey was made. Wikipedia says parts have been renovated by the State Archaeology department.
Architecture and sacred features
The IGNCA record describes a rekha vimana of the early Kalingan order, triratha on plan and triangabada in elevation, meaning the wall is divided into three sections. It is built of sandstone laid as dry ashlar masonry, with a laterite compound wall.
Recorded dimensions are about 6.30 m by 6.10 m by 7.00 m high, facing west, with plain exteriors and interiors. Architectural fragments lie at the northern corner of the complex. The survey assessed the condition as fair.
Plan Your Visit
Darshan and Visitor Information
This is a living temple and a state-protected monument; dress modestly, avoid climbing on the structure, and follow staff instructions. Timings are not given in the sources read, so confirm locally.
Timings and arrangements change with seasons and festivals. Confirm current details with Odisha State Archaeology before travelling. Last reviewed 1 November 2026.
Sacred Calendar
Festivals at Bharateswar Temple, Bhubaneswar
Maha Shivaratri
Location
How to Reach Bharateswar Temple, Bhubaneswar
The IGNCA record gives the address as Mausima Chowk, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, 751002, on the road from Kalpana Chowk towards the Lingaraj temple, opposite the Ramesvara temple. Bhubaneswar is the capital of Odisha and is served by rail and air; consult a map for current local transport.
Location: Bhubaneswar, Khurda, Odisha, India
More in Hindu temples in Odisha · Shiva (Shivalinga) temples · Temples in Bhubaneswar (M.Corp.) P.S. Tahasil · Temples in Khordha District
Questions
Bharateswar Temple, Bhubaneswar: Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bharateswar Temple?
In the Old Town of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on the road from Kalpana Chowk to the Lingaraj temple, opposite the Ramesvara temple.
How old is Bharateswar Temple?
The IGNCA/ASI record dates it to the later half of the 6th century CE, in the Sailodbhava period, making it one of Odisha's earliest surviving temples.
Which deity is worshipped?
Shiva, as a Shivalinga within a circular yonipitha.
What style is the temple?
An early Kalingan rekha vimana, triratha on plan and triangabada in elevation, built of sandstone.
Is it a protected monument?
The IGNCA record lists it as protected by Orissa State Archaeology, which has carried out renovation.
Is worship still held here?
Yes. The record calls it a living temple and notes Sivaratri is performed.
Sources and attribution
- Wikipedia — Bharateswar Temple
- Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (ASI documentation format, Bhubaneswar survey) — Bharatesvara Siva Temple, Old Town, Bhubaneswar (OR/KDA/BSR-15)
Further reading: Bharateswar Temple, Bhubaneswar on Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0).
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