Rajarani Temple: Bhubaneswar's Temple of Love

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Discover the Rajarani Temple in Bhubaneswar, an 11th-century architectural marvel adorned with intricate carvings and known as the 'Love Temple'.

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Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar

The Rajarani Temple, an 11th-century marvel in Bhubaneswar, earns its nickname 'Love Temple' from the captivating carvings of couples and women adorning its walls. Built in the Kalinga architectural style with striking red and yellow sandstone, it stands as a testament to Odisha's rich cultural heritage. Though dedicated to Lord Shiva, it enshrines no deity, welcoming all visitors to admire its artistry.

A brief summary to Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar

6RVV+99X, Tankapani Rd, near BOI ATM, Bhubaneswar, Kedar Gouri Vihar, Rajarani Colony, Rajarani Temple, Odisha, 751002, IN

Monday 6 am-9 pm
Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
Thursday 6 am-9 pm
Friday 6 am-9 pm
Saturday 6 am-9 pm
Sunday 6 am-9 pm

Local tips

Visit during the Rajarani Music Festival (January 18-20) to experience Indian classical music in a historic setting.
Explore the temple's detailed carvings, especially the images of couples and women, which give it the name 'Love Temple'.
Note the unique Kalinga architecture, with its red and yellow sandstone construction and intricate spire designs.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Bhubaneswar Railway Station, take a local bus towards Rajarani Temple. Buses are frequently available and take approximately 30-35 minutes to reach the temple. The approximate bus fare is INR 10-20.
Taxi

From Biju Patnaik International Airport, hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Rajarani Temple. The journey is about 4 km and takes around 11 minutes. Taxi/auto-rickshaw fare will be approximately INR 100-150.
Walking

From Lingaraj Temple, Rajarani Temple is approximately 4 km away. You can walk to Rajarani Temple in approximately 52 minutes. Follow the Tankapani Road to reach the temple.

Discover more about Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar

Rajarani Temple, a jewel of Bhubaneswar's temple architecture, dates back to the 11th century. Constructed with red and yellow sandstone, locally known as 'Rajarani,' the temple derives its name from this vibrant material. It's also known as the 'Love Temple' because of the intricately carved sculptures of amorous couples and graceful women that embellish its structure. Built in the Kalinga style, the temple stands on a raised platform and comprises two main sections: the Vimana (inner sanctum) and the Jagamohana (the hall for devotees). The Vimana showcases a curvilinear spire reaching a height of 17.9 meters, while the Jagamohana features a pyramidal roof. The temple's walls are adorned with detailed carvings depicting scenes from the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, along with the eight directional guardians known as 'Ashtadikpalas'. Though dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple lacks a presiding deity within its sanctum. Some historians suggest it was initially known as Indreswara Temple, named after the Somavamsi ruler Indraratha. The temple's architecture is believed to have influenced the design of other temples in central India, including the famous Khajuraho temples. The Archaeological Survey of India maintains the temple, and it hosts the annual Rajarani Music Festival, celebrating Indian classical music.