Lankeswari Temple

Lankeswari Temple is a Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Lankeswari in Sonepur town, Subarnapur District, Odisha, situated near the Mahanadi River. Revered as the presiding deity of the former Sonepur princely state, the temple is an important Shakti shrine. Built under Chauhan patronage, it features traditional Odishan temple architecture and remains a central religious landmark and cultural identity symbol for the region.

Visitors can expect a compact temple complex on the bank of the Mahanadi River in Sonepur town. The main shrine houses the idol of Goddess Lankeswari, with a sanctum, pillared mandapa and temple courtyard. The surroundings include river views, ghats, small shops selling offerings and flowers, and a calm devotional atmosphere. Visitors can observe daily rituals and aarti, explore the temple architecture and walk along the nearby riverbank area.

Lankeswari Temple is historically associated with the Chauhan rulers of Sonepur, who made Sonepur their capital and patronized the shrine as the royal tutelary deity. The temple represents the religious and political heritage of the former Sonepur princely state and reflects traditional Odishan temple building traditions developed under Chauhan rule.

Goddess Lankeswari is worshipped as the presiding Shakti deity of Sonepur and holds deep cultural importance for the local community. The temple is the focal point of major festivals, especially Dussehra and Navratri, when special rituals and gatherings are held. It remains a symbol of regional identity and continuity of Shakti worship in western Odisha.