Lingaraj Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva , located in Bhubaneswar is one of the most popular temples of Orissa. The temple is , also known as ‘Lingaraj'. It is adorned with beautiful sculptures, which have been carved on the spire. Lingaraja temple is approximately 54.8 metres high and enshrines a huge statue of Lord Shiva, made up of granite. The idol is 8 feet in diameter and is placed on a platform that is about 8 inches above ground. The deity is bathed everyday with water, milk and bhang (marijuana).

Lingaraj Temple of Bhubaneswar is believed to date back to the later half of eleventh century. However, some people are of the belief that, some parts of the temple have been there since the sixth century. It is also said that the temple was constructed by Jajati Keshari, the Soma Vanshi King. However, there are no historical records to authenticate the claim. The high walls of Lingaraja temple, that have been made by using solid red sandstones, lend it the look of a fortress, when viewed from outside.

On the eastern side of the temple, lies its solitary entrance point, which is commonly known as the ‘Simhadwara' or the ‘Lions' Gate'. One of the oldest temples of Bhubaneshwar, Lingaraja has 150 smaller shrines inside its huge courtyard. Lingaraj temple is basically made up of four parts, namely the main temple, the 'Yajna Shala', the 'Bhoga Mandap' and the 'Natya Shala'. Along with Lord Shiva, it also enshrines Lord Vishnu, in the form of Saligramam idol. The main gates of the temple have Lord Shiva's Trishul on one side and Lord Vishnu's Chakra on the other.

Legend of Lingaraja Temple :- Legend has it that Shiva revealed to Parvati that Bhubaneshwar - or Ekamra thirtha was a resort favored by him over Benares. Parvati in the guise of a cowherd woman, decided to look at the city herself. Two demons Kritti and Vasa desired to marry her. She requested them to carry her upon their shoulders, and crushed them under her weight. Shiva, then created the Bindu Saras lake to quench her thirt, and took abode here as Krittivasas or Lingaraja. Book A tour Package to Lingaraja Temple Bhubaneswar .