Viswanath Temple, Gadakalupada, Odisha

Viswanath Temple, Gadakalupada, Odisha

Viswanath Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Gadakalupada Village in Delanga Block in Puri District in Odisha, India. This temple is situated on the top of the Viswanatha Hill (locally known as Biswanath Mundia). The temple is situated on the left bank of the Daya river.

History

The temple is believed to be built in 15^th century CE during the Gajapati period. Biswanath Hill is known for its ancient monastery of Dignag, the Buddhist logician and philosopher.

The Temple

This temple is facing towards west and situated on the top of the Viswanatha Hill. The temple consists of rekha vimana and a shallow entrance porch. The temple is pancharatha on plan and panchangabada in elevation. Two stucco images of lion can be seen at the entrance of the sanctum. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Viswanath in the form of Shiva Linga within a circular Yonipitha.

The vimana is square on plan. Udyota simhas can be seen in all raha pagas of the gandi portion. The exterior is devoid of any decoration except the niches. Images of Navagraha panel, Astikajaratkaru, Bust part of a female devotee, a dilapidated six-armed deity, Deula Charini and Animal erotics can be seen in the temple premises.

Festivals

Shivarathri, Kartika Purnima and Sankranti are the festivals celebrated here with much fanfare.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 1.5 Kms from Motari Railway Station, 4 Kms from Kanas Road Railway Station, 7 Kms from Delang, 21 Kms from Khordha New Bus Stand, 21 Kms from Pattanaikia Square, 22 Kms from Khordha, 28 Kms from Bhubaneswar Airport and 43 Kms from Bhubaneswar. The temple is situated on Khordha to Pattanaikia Square route.

Location