Lingaraj Temple Bhubaneswar: Timings, Entry Rules, Festivals and How to Reach

Facts checked November 2026.

Bhubaneswar is called the temple city, and Lingaraj is its crown. Many families visit it on the way to or from Jagannath Puri. This guide covers the history, timings, entry rules, festivals, how to reach and how to plan the visit with elders.

This page is part of our Jagannath Temple Puri guide. Planning the yatra? See our Bada Char Dham yatra packages.

What is the history of Lingaraj temple?

As per India’s official tourism portal, the temple was commissioned in the 11th century by King Jajati Keshari of the Somvanshi dynasty. Legends say the Shivalinga was worshipped here as early as the 7th century. After a damaging earthquake in the 16th century, artisans restored the temple.

The temple honours both Shiva and Vishnu, a symbol of the union of the Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions. The Swayambhu (self-manifested) Shivalinga in the sanctum measures 8 feet in diameter and 8 inches in height.

How is the Lingaraj temple built?

Lingaraj is built in the Kalinga style from sandstone and laterite. The complex covers over 40 acres and has about 150 smaller shrines in the courtyard. The main entrance is on the east, with smaller gates on the south and north.

What are the Lingaraj temple timings?

India’s official tourism portal lists the temple as open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. Rituals inside can close the sanctum for short periods, and festivals can change darshan. For example, in 2023 the Temple Trust Board stopped public darshan inside the temple from 12 noon on all days of Chandan Yatra so that the rituals could run smoothly, as reported by OdishaBytes. Arrive early in the morning for the calmest darshan.

Who can enter Lingaraj temple?

Entry to the temple is restricted to Hindus. Non-Hindu visitors can see the complex from a raised viewing platform beside the boundary wall. Follow the instructions of the temple staff and police at the gates.

What rules should we follow?

• Wear modest, traditional clothes; leave footwear outside.
• Keep bags small, and ask at the gate whether phones and cameras may be carried inside.
• Pay only for offerings or puja with a receipt from the temple counter, and agree any pandit dakshina before the puja.
• Do not take photos inside the complex unless staff allow it.

Which festivals are celebrated at Lingaraj?

Bindu Sarovar, the sacred tank near the temple, is part of these festivals. Shivaratri brings very large crowds, so plan rooms early and avoid it with frail elders.

How to reach Lingaraj temple?

The temple is in the old town of Bhubaneswar, a short drive from the station and the airport. Puri is linked to Bhubaneswar by a four-lane highway, so many families do Lingaraj on the way to Puri. See our temples in Puri guide for a full plan.

When is the best time to visit Lingaraj?

• Season: India’s official tourism portal shows April to June as very hot, with highs of about 41 to 42 °C. The cooler months from November to February are easier for elders.
• Time of day: early morning after opening.
• Festivals: Mahashivaratri for the Mahadipa; Ashokashtami for the car festival. Expect big crowds on both.

Is Lingaraj easy for senior citizens?

Yes, the temple is on level ground with no climb. The courtyard is large and the stone floor gets very hot in the afternoon, so go early and carry socks or a cloth for elders if allowed. Keep the visit to one or two hours and rest before driving on to Puri or Konark.

Can we visit Lingaraj with Puri and Konark?

Yes. Our Odisha Mandir Darshan Yatra is a 6 days / 5 nights yatra from Bhubaneswar that includes Lingaraj, Puri Jagannath, Konark and other temples of Odisha. For Puri alone, see the Puri Jagannath Dham Darshan Yatra. To read about Shiva’s other great shrines, see forms and temples of Lord Shiva.

Call or WhatsApp +91 78178 98687, or write to shiva@yatratotemples.in.

Frequently asked questions

What are the Lingaraj temple timings?

India’s official tourism portal lists 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. The sanctum can close briefly for rituals, and festival days can change darshan.

Can non-Hindus enter Lingaraj temple?

No. Entry is restricted to Hindus. Non-Hindu visitors can view the complex from a raised platform outside the wall.

Who built Lingaraj temple?

It was commissioned in the 11th century by King Jajati Keshari of the Somvanshi dynasty, and restored after a 16th-century earthquake.

How tall is Lingaraj temple?

The main tower rises to about 180 feet. The complex covers over 40 acres with about 150 smaller shrines.

Which deity is worshipped at Lingaraj?

A Swayambhu Shivalinga, worshipped as a union of Shiva and Vishnu. It measures 8 feet in diameter and 8 inches in height.

Which is the biggest festival at Lingaraj?

Mahashivaratri. Devotees fast all day and break the fast when the Mahadipa is raised to the top of the temple at night.

How far is Lingaraj from Puri?

Lingaraj is in Bhubaneswar, and Puri is linked by a four-lane highway; most families cover both on one day or on the way in. Check road time on the day, as it depends on traffic.