Ancient Shree Lokanath Temple in Odisha with its history

The historic Shree Lokanath Temple is situated in Puri town, 2 km from Sri Jagannath Temple and 4.5 km from Puri Junction. It is one of the most significant Shiva shrines in Odisha and a well-liked destination in Puri. It is devoted to Lord Shiva. This 11th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Lokanath, who is represented by a lingam. The lingam at this temple is said to have been erected by Lord Rama. On his journey to Sri Lanka to hunt for Sita, Lord Rama arrived in Puri and took a seat, promising to see Shiva there. At that time, a Lau or Lauka (Pumpkin) that resembled a Shiva linga was given to him by a local village called Sabarapalli. Installing that there was a duplicate of the Siva linga, Lord Rama appealed to Shiva to grant his wish. As a result, the temple was first known as Laukanatha and then as Lokanath Temple. One of the temple’s distinctive features is that the Shiva linga is always submerged in water, supporting the myth that the Goddess Ganga flows through the top of the linga like a stream. Only on Pankodhar Ekadasi, just before Shivaratri, is the lingham’s water visible when it is drained. Thousands of devotees arrive for darshan on that particular day. The general public believes that llamas may heal people of all kinds from various health issues. The four components of the Lokanath temple are called Vimana, Jagamohana, Natamandapa, and Bhogamandapa. The main temple, which is made of sandstone, is situated roughly thirty feet above the ground. Various deity images were housed within the outer walls of the main temple. To the left of the inner courtyard is a modest shrine that houses preserved images of Surya-Narayana and Candra-Narayana. The Satya-Narayan temple on the property houses various brass idols and images of Vishnu and Lakshmi. The biggest celebration, Saranti Somavar Fair, is observed with tremendous fanfare and splendor. The Jagannath Temple in Puri is home to Lokanath’s utsava murti.

Attraction

This esteemed location honouring Lord Shiva is thought to have been constructed in the twelfth century by the Ganga dynasty. The primary deity of the temple is a half-submerged Shiva Lingam, which, according to mythology, was established by Lord Rama. Thousands of devotees flock to the temple on Shivaratri, making it a major destination for Shaivites. Its spiritual appeal is enhanced by unusual customs, such as the holy water encircling the lingam, which is thought to have healing qualities. The temple fervently commemorates a number of festivals, including Kartik Purnima and Rudra Abhisheka. Numerous people are drawn to it by its elaborate carvings and traditional Kalinga building style. Its closeness to the well-known Jagannath Temple further establishes it as a crucial stop on the Puri pilgrimage circuit.

History

The main deity of the temple is Lord Lokanath, who first appeared as a lingam in the eleventh century. Legend has it that Lord Rama set up the lingam in this temple. Lord Rama sat there determined to see Shiva while travelling to Sri Lanka in quest of Sita. He was given a pumpkin, also known as a lau or lauki, that looked like a Shiva linga at that time and came from the Sabarapalli neighborhood. This is a copy of the Siva Linga that Lord Rama placed there and begged to be granted. The temple is, therefore, called Laukanatha Temple and, thereafter, Lokanath Temple. The Shiva linga is always submerged in water, confirming the notion that the temple is special because Goddess Ganga is said to run through the Shiva linga’s top like a stream. It is only visible on Pankodhar Ekadasi, the day before Shivaratri when the lingam’s water is removed. On that day, thousands of followers show up for darshan. It is commonly believed that the linga can heal common people of all health-related problems.

Inside/Outside Views

The entrance of the temple is embellished with sculptures and patterns typical of the architecture of ancient Odisha temples, and the exterior has elaborate carvings and a pyramidal structure. Smaller shrines and gardens surround the area, enhancing its spiritual atmosphere, while sculptures of numerous gods and legendary characters adorn the exterior walls.

The main shrine of the temple is home to a Shiva Lingam, which is the object of worship and is thought to be self-manifested. Traditional patterns adorn the inside, which is further embellished with flowers and lights during major festivities. It is possible to witness devotees making prayers, carrying out rites, and participating in religious activities. Frequent aartis, or devotional rites, are performed; the sound of bells and chants fills the temple, evoking a profoundly spiritual mood.

Opening Hours

Saturday Open 24 hours

Sunday 5:30 AM–8:30 PM

Monday 4:30 AM–9:30 PM

Tuesday 5:30 AM–8:30 PM

Wednesday 5:30 AM–8:30 PM

Thursday 5:30 AM–8:30 PM

Friday 5:30 AM–8:30 PM

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik Airport. From Bhubaneswar, you can go by bus, or private vehicles are available. The distance between Bhubaneswar to Puri is 59 Km.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Puri Junction Railway Station. The distance from Puri Junction to Lokanath Temple is 4.2 Km.

By Road: You can go by bus; many government buses are available to reach Puri. The distance between Puri bus station and Lokanath Temple is about 1.5 km.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed inside?

Ans: No, photography is not allowed.

Que-03: What is the significance of Shree Lokanath Temple?

Ans: The temple is believed to be one of the four major Shiva temples in Odisha and holds great religious importance. It is said that the Shivalinga in the temple was installed by Lord Rama during his journey to Lanka.

Que-04: What are the main festivals celebrated at Shree Lokanath Temple?

Ans: The main festivals celebrated at the temple include Maha Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima, and the Sital Sasthi festival. These festivals attract a large number of devotees from various parts of India.

Que-05: Are there any accommodation facilities near the temple?

Ans: Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses available in Puri, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations. Many of these are located close to the temple.

Que-06: What is the best time to visit Shree Lokanath Temple?

Ans: The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and it coincides with many major festivals.