The Lingaraj Temple is an ancient temple situated in the city of Bhubaneswar and is the largest one situated in the city. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as the name suggests, the temple was built in the 7th century by King Jajati Keshari.
Rajarani Temple is yet another great example of the 11th-century Kalinga architecture. One more feature, that sets it apart from the former shrine, is that it only has two structures instead of four as it was constructed several decades earlier. The sculptures here depict the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and also women going about their daily chores.
The Brahmeshwara Temple is yet another relic of the brilliance of Oriyan style of architecture. Built in the 11th century, this temple is surrounded by four smaller shrines. Famous for its beautiful carvings, it attracts a lot of pilgrims throughout the year.
Mukteshwar Temple is rather unusual when compared to others as its arched entrance gateway is a Torana, which is a Buddhist architectural element. Even the sculptures of deities on its top are reminiscent of Buddhist influence. Past the Torana are the Jagamohana and Vimana that too feature incredible carvings.
Chausathi Jogini Temple stands in stark contrast to a Hindu temple as you know it. Built in a circular fashion with no roof, it is associated with the Tantric cult, rather than mainstream Hinduism, bearing a similarity to Druid temples.
Kedar Gauri Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri. Some locals also believe that the temple is dedicated to a couple with the names Kedar and Gauri. The attraction is, however, famous for the annual procession held to commemorate the marriage of Shiva and Parvati.
While most of the temples in the city are associated with the Shaiva sect, this one is associated with the Vaishnava sect, reflecting that by the time it as constructed (13th century), Vaishnava deities had been assimilated in the otherwise dominantly Shaiva culture of the region.