Lingaraj Temple is one of the most iconic and ancient temples in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a brilliant example of Kalinga architecture and holds immense religious importance among devotees. Built in the 11th century, the temple is a blend of Shaivism and Vaishnavism, making it unique among Hindu temples. It attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year, especially during Maha Shivaratri.
Lingaraj Temple Timings Overview (2025)
| Particulars | Timings |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening Time | 5:00 AM |
| Morning Puja | 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM |
| General Darshan | 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Afternoon Break | 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM |
| Temple Closing Time | 9:00 PM |
Note: Timings may slightly change on festival days and special puja events.
Konark Sun Temple 2025: Timings, Entry Fee, Online Booking & Light & Sound Show Details
Lingaraj Temple Daily Schedule
Morning Timings
- 5:00 AM: Temple opens with Mangala Aarti and cleaning of the sanctum.
- 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Special pujas and abhishekam rituals take place.
- 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Devotees can enter for general darshan.
Afternoon Timings
- 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Temple remains closed for visitors. Priests perform Bhog naivedya (offering food to the deity).
Evening Timings
- 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Reopens for darshan and aarti.
- 9:00 PM: Temple closes after Bada Singhar Besha (final decoration of the deity).
Lingaraj Temple Puja & Aarti Timings
| Puja/Aarti | Time |
|---|---|
| Mangala Aarti | 5:00 AM |
| Abhisheka & Puja | 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Bhog Offering | 12:00 PM |
| Evening Aarti | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Bada Singhar Aarti | 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM |
Best Time to Visit Lingaraj Temple
- Early Morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM): Peaceful and less crowded.
- Festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima, and Shravan Mondays: High energy and religious vibrancy but very crowded.
Lingaraj Temple Entry Fee
- Entry Fee: Free for all visitors.
- Special Darshan: Not available, as all devotees follow the same queue.
- Photography: Not allowed inside temple premises.
Temple Address & Location
Address:
Lingaraj Temple Road,
Old Town, Bhubaneswar,
Odisha – 751002, India
Official Website : click Here
Nearest Railway Station: Bhubaneswar Junction (4 km)
Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport (3.5 km)
Google Maps Location: Search “Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar”
Dress Code and Important Guidelines
- Traditional Indian attire is recommended.
- Men: Dhoti or Kurta-Pajama
- Women: Saree or Salwar Kameez
- Leather items, mobile phones, and cameras are strictly prohibited.
- Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the sanctum.
- Maintain silence and respect inside the temple premises.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Lingaraj Temple, you can also explore:
- Bindu Sagar Lake – Just behind the temple.
- Mukteswara Temple – Famous for its exquisite carvings.
- Rajarani Temple – Known as the “love temple” of Odisha.
- Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves – Ancient Jain rock-cut caves.
Lingaraj Temple History
Ancient History and Syncretic Culture: One of the oldest and largest temples devoted to Lord Shiva is the Lingasraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Its beginnings date to the sixth century CE, and under the Somavamsi and then Ganga dynasties, it saw considerable growth in the eleventh century. With Lord Lingaraj worshipped as Harihara, a hybrid form of Shiva and Vishnu, the temple is unique among Shiva temples in India and represents the harmonious fusion of Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
Architectural Wonder of Kalinga Style: With its 180-foot shikhara (spire), elaborately carved walls, and more than 50 smaller shrines spread across its expansive complex, this magnificent temple is a superb example of Kalinga architecture. The temple’s layout and design, which stand for divine symmetry and spiritual elevation, are the height of medieval Odia temple construction. The durability of the materials and workmanship provides insight into the engineering prowess of ancient India.
Religious and Cultural Significance: Lingaraj Temple is a cultural icon in addition to a religious monument. It is a major feature of festivals like Ashokashtami and Shivaratri, when thousands of people come to see its magnificent processions. Originally a hub for Tantric rituals, the temple later became a popular destination for pilgrims, demonstrating Odisha’s enduring spiritual diversity and adaptability over the ages.
FAQs on Lingaraj Temple Timings
Q1. What is the best time to visit Lingaraj Temple?
A: The best time is early morning between 6 AM to 8 AM for a peaceful darshan.
Q2. Is there any ticket required for entry?
A: No, entry to the temple is completely free.
Q3. Can non-Hindus visit Lingaraj Temple?
A: No, entry is restricted to Hindus only.
Q4. Is photography allowed in the temple?
A: No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited.
Q5. What are the temple closing timings?
A: The temple closes at 9:00 PM after the final aarti.