Opposite the Gangeswara and Yamuneswara temples, located, on the Ganges-Yamuna road, is the Lakheswara (Lakhesvara) Temple, which dates back to the 13th century and is dedicated to Shiva.
While the entrance is a little more recent than the vimana, the temple, facing east, is saptaratha in the plan, although no jagamohana is to be found; however, the mark of this structure can be seen on the ground before the entrance.
The temple is devoid of adornments; all central niches are currently empty. I was unable to see the linga that is enshrined in the temple as the temple was locked: it is a Shiva linga within a circular yoni pitha.
History of Lakhesvara Siva Temple
Within the Old Town area in Bhubaneswar, Odisha lies the Lakhesvara Siva Temple of the Gangas. Established in the 13th century, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is characterized by the Kalingan style of architecture. The main deity is represented in the form of a Siva lingam set on a circular yoni-pitha. Surrounding the temple are the Ganges-Yamuna road and numerous private residences.
Architecture of Lakhesvara Siva Temple
The temple follows the typical Kalinga style. The chaitya is placed onto a rekha order, featuring bada, gandi, and mastaka. The temple stands over a low pista that spans 11.80 meters in length, 5.70 meters in width, and 0.43 meters in height. The temple features a square vimana and a renovated frontal porch. The bada is divided into five vertical divisions, and the mastaka is made of beki, amlaka, khapuri, and kalasa.
Things to Do at Lakhesvara Siva Temple
Getting to the Lakhesvara Siva Temple is a source of awe and wonder as visitors can delve deeper into exploring the intricacy of its architectural detail while becoming acquainted with numerous aspects of its historical significance. The temple precinct is also the area designated as a public platform for meetings and cultural events like Sivaratri, Sankranti, Chandana Utsav, Kartika-Purnima, and Jalabhisheka.
Entry Fee and Timing of Lakhesvara Siva Temple
The Lakhesvara Siva Temple is open daily to visitors from dawn until dusk. There is no entry fee, so it remains open to all tourists.
Reaching Lakhesvara Siva Temple
The Lakhesvara Siva Temple is situated in the Old Town area of Bhubaneswar, very near the Lingaraj market complex. It lies at a distance of 70 meters northeast of the Lingaraj Temple and 10 meters south of the Gangesvara and Yamunesvara Siva temples. The temple is connected with public transport and is accessible by taxi, and auto-rickshaw, and there is a good path leading there if you decide to walk.
