About Loknath Temple
Loknath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Puri, Odisha, about 1.5 km west of the Shree Jagannath Temple. Revered as the guardian deity of Puri, the temple enshrines a Shiva lingam that remains submerged in water throughout the year. Believed to have been established in the 11th century, it is an important Shaivite shrine within the predominantly Vaishnavite pilgrimage town of Puri.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a compact temple complex with a small sanctum housing the Shiva lingam submerged in a water-filled cistern, accessible via steps. The surroundings include temple courtyards, shrines to Parvati and other deities, and a sacred pond (Parvati Sagara) nearby. The atmosphere is devotional with daily rituals, chanting and offerings. The lingam is normally seen only as submerged, except during Pankodhar Ekadashi before Maha Shivaratri when water is removed for darshan.
Key highlights
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Shiva lingam kept naturally submerged in water throughout the year
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Revered as guardian deity of Puri and closely associated with Jagannath Temple traditions
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Sacred Parvati Sagara tank adjacent to the temple
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Special darshan on Pankodhar Ekadashi before Maha Shivaratri when water is bailed out
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Historic 11th-century architecture with Kalinga style elements
History of Loknath Temple
Traditionally believed to have been established in the 11th century, the temple is an ancient Shaivite shrine in Puri. Local tradition associates its establishment with Lord Ramachandra and the preservation of the lingam. It represents the coexistence of Shaivite worship within the Vaishnavite centre of Puri.
Culture & Context
Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Loknath, regarded as the guardian and protector deity of Puri. The temple is closely linked to the rituals of the Jagannath Temple and is visited by pilgrims seeking blessings before or after Jagannath darshan. Maha Shivaratri is the major festival, when thousands gather for the special unveiling of the lingam.
Route
| By air |
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