About Brahmeswar Temple
Brahmeswar Temple is an 11th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Brahmeswar Patna in the Old Town area of Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Built in 1058 CE during the Somavamsi dynasty, it is renowned as a fine example of Kalinga architecture with intricate stone carvings, sculpted vimana and jagamohana. The temple is an important heritage and pilgrimage site within Bhubaneswar's temple city landscape.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a compact temple complex enclosed by a compound wall with a towering vimana, pillared jagamohana, and richly carved stone sculptures depicting deities, dancers and floral motifs. The temple is set in a residential area of Old Town Bhubaneswar surrounded by smaller shrines. Inside, visitors can view the sanctum with Shiva lingam, observe daily worship rituals, and explore detailed Kalinga-style architecture and iconography at close range.
Key highlights
- 01
11th-century Shiva temple built in 1058 CE during Somavamsi rule
- 02
Classic example of Kalinga architecture with Pancharatha vimana and intricately carved jagamohana
- 03
Exquisite stone sculptures of deities, musicians, dancers and erotic motifs
- 04
Inscriptions detailing temple construction by Kolavati Devi, mother of King Udyotakesari
- 05
Active place of worship with daily rituals and festivals, especially Shivratri
History of Brahmeswar Temple
Built in 1058 CE by Kolavati Devi, wife of Somavamsi King Udyotakesari, as recorded in temple inscriptions. It marks the mature phase of Kalinga temple architecture and shows transition from early to later Odishan temple styles, with extensive use of iron beams and detailed sculptural work.
Culture & Context
Dedicated to Lord Shiva worshipped as Brahmeswar, the temple is an active Hindu religious site and part of Bhubaneswar's identity as the Temple City of India. It exemplifies Odishan temple art and is revered during Maha Shivratri and other Shaivite festivals.
Route
| By air |
|---|