Dhabaleswar Temple is a Saiva temple in Odisha situated across the river Mahanadi over a bank of the Dha-Ma River on a hillock. By road, it is located 35 kilometers (22 mi) from Cuttack via Choudwar; approximately 4 km by boat through Chahata Ghata at Cuttack or about a distance of around 9 kilometers (6 mi) by land route over the Netaji Subhash Bose bridge near Bidanasi. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are many Shaiva Peethas in Odisha but Dhabaleswar is the oldest of all.
It can be reached by any suspension bridge over the Mahanadi River or a boat, also making it ideal as a peaceful and panoramic destination for its visitors. Dhabaleswar Temple enrolls a large number of devotees, especially during Bada Osha, which is celebrated on the 14th day of the month of Kartika according to the Hindu calendar. It is also one of the major pilgrimage spots during Mahashivaratri, a thousand numbers devotees walk to visit this temple every year on each Shivratri.
Lord Dhabaleswara Temple History
Baba Dhabaleswar Mandir is an ancient temple in Odisha. Dhabaleswar is the combination of two Odi words Dhabala (white) and Peshawar (god). As per the legend, this temple is said to be associated with 2 legends one of them being where Lord Shiva appeared as a white color (Dhabala) bull(as deity- not in Linga form – could have played an intermediary role for sake devotee). And the black bull, which was intended would disappear by theft without detection (so clever), instead, he prayed to his god and turned it into a white bull. The 11th century AD witnessed the construction of many temples by the Ganga ruler. Near Cuttack City’s Most Famous Tourist Place Dhabaleswar Mandir
Different festivals happen at Dhabaleswar pitha. In the month of Kartik, the Bada Osa festival is celebrated among them, and Makar Sankranti in this field after Mahashivratri or Shravan Somvar. At these festivals, the holy shrine attracts millions of devotees. People come to the Lingam of Dhabaleswar in Shravan month and pour water on it so their wishes are fulfilled.
Dhabaleswar Temple Hanging Bridge
The hanging bridge is yet another enticing adventure for all devotee travelers to Dhabaleswar Shiva Mandir. In 2007, the construction of Dhabaleswar Jhula Pola was done for the devotees. It is one of the longest Suspension bridges in India. Dhabaleswara Temple is the best place for tourists to visit in Cuttack, Odisha. Surrounded by the Mahanadi River, the island is beautiful and quiet, which brings a sense of calmness.
This architectural wonder is the 245-meter suspension bridge and the greatest tourist attraction. It opens up to a pedestrian suspension bridge popularly known as Jhula, through which visitors can reach the temple and enjoy a picturesque view of the Mahanadi River. Boat services are also available from nearby villages, especially during festivals in honor of the large number of visiting devotees. As such, it becomes one of the very peaceful and pleasant zones for all devotees and tourists.
The serene location on an island, as well as the crossing by suspension bridge or ferry over the waters, adds to its charm, providing a truly unique experience. If you prefer a more tranquil method of approach, you could take a peaceful boat ride, letting you enjoy the beauty that surrounds the Dhabaleswar island.
Photography is permitted, but check for signs or ask the temple authorities, as some areas might have restrictions.
This temple is a quiet spot where the spirituality merges with natural beauty. It offers a memorable experience for visitors in the rich heritage of Odisha. Since Cuttack is quite rich in culture and history, you should set aside time to visit nearby attractions like Barabati Fort and Chandi Temple for a full experience. During peak times, Cuttack’s parking facility near the temple can get congested. Public transport or a hired cab from Cuttack may be time-saving.
Destination Attractions, Destination Facilities, Transportation, Accessibility, How to Reach
Entry Time
Dhabaleswar Temple’s open timings are every morning from 05:00 to 12:30 and from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Best Time to visit Lord Dhabaleswar Mandir
The Best time to visit Athagarh Dhabaleswar Shiva Temple is at all times of the year
Nearby Bus Stand from Lord Dhabaleswar Temple
The nearby Bus stand is Cuttack Netaji Bus Terminal, which is located around 18 Km distance from Dhabaleswar Shiva Temple and 36 km from Bhubaneswar Barmunda Bus Stop
Nearby Railway Station
The Nearby Railway Station is Cuttack, which is located around 17 Km distance from Athagarh Dhabaleswar Shiva Temple
Nearby Airport
The nearby airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, which is located around 37 Km distance from Athagarh Hanging Bridge
