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Bhubaneshwar is known as the 'City of Temples'. There were more than 7000 temples situated around Bindusagar Lake, in the old city. Only 500 of those temples stay alive today. Orissa was a part of the ancient Kalinga empire. During 260 BC, emperor Ashoka defeated the King of Kalinga, after a bloody battle. Soon the carnage filled Ashoka with sorrow and he resigned war and aggression permanently. He embraced Buddhism and followed the course of peace, pity, kindness and non-violence. However, soon after Ashoka’s demise, Buddhism in Orissa declined and Jainism gained influence under the strong Kharvela. Under Kharvela, Orissa achieved new heights in art, culture, trade and business. Some of the vital spiritual destinations in Bhubaneshwar are Mukteswar, Siddeswar and Kedargauri temples and many other temples.
Mukteswar Temple is a 10th century temple and is famous for its granite construction. The gleaming beauty of the Mukteswar temple is one of the most pleasant expressions of the Kalinga style of architecture. The temple is known as the 'Jewel of Orissa architecture’. Mukteswar temple has some of the most intricately decorated carvings. The domed entrance makes one mesmerized. It displays a superb mixture of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain features that find a common platform in much of the Orissa temple technique.
Mukteswar temple has an 11-meter high tower. Mukteswar means the lord who offers freedom through the practice of yoga. There is a small water pond between the temple and the road. The pond is known as Marichi Kund. Native people say that a dip in the pond can treat sterility among women.
Siddeswar temple is a classic Orissa temple. It is located at Bhubaneshwar, in Khordha region. A very attractive standing idol of Lord Ganesha is the attraction of Siddeswar temple. The temple has a Pancha-Rath chamber. A five-divisional wall surrounds the chamber. There are two parts in the upper portion of the wall. These walls are ornamented with Khakhara and Pidha styles. The shikhar or tower of the temple is covered by a row of small turrets. Siddeswar temple is easily reachable by bus, from the Bhubaneshwar bus station.
Kedargauri temple is also located at the same premise, close to the Mukteswar temple. The temple has a Panch-Rath sanctum. There is a rectangular hall in the temple, which is known as Jagamohana. The hall has a sloping terrace over it. A three-divisional wall with great adornments surrounds the hall.
Really, Mukteswar, Siddeswar and Kedargauri temples are worth visiting.
To know about Tourist Attractions in and around Bhuabaneshwar go to:
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