History:

Akhandalamani Temple, also known as Aradi Temple, is a temple of the Hindu god Shiva located in the small village of Aradi in Odisha, India. It is believed to have been built around the 10th century and is one of the most important places of worship in the state of Odisha. The temple is known to contain an ancient structure that was constructed by the famous ruler of Kalinga, Eastern Ganga Bhanudeva II. It is believed to be the last great temple built in the Eastern Gangan style architecture. The temple is a grand structure with four stories and is surrounded by walls and a moat. A variety of deities are worshiped inside the temple including Lakshmi, Ganesha, Vishnu, and Surya. It is one of the best temple in Odisha which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Akhandalamani Temple is an ancient temple located in Aradi, Odisha. 2. The temple was built in the 11th century and is dedicated to the Lord Shiva. 3. It is believed that the temple has been in existence since the time of Mahabharata. 4. Also known as the ‘All-stone temple’, it was originally constructed without the use of cement or mortar. 5. The main structure of the temple is a square sanctum supported by four pilasters on its side. 6. The roof of the temple is made of around 30 individually carved stones which are joined together without the use of mortar. 7. The temple is ornately decorated with images of deities, flowers, and animals. 8. It is also famous for its well-maintained garden comprising of various colorful flowers and also hosts several festivals throughout the year. 9. Akhandalamani Temple has been recognized as one of the national monuments of India. 10. Pilgrims and devotees believe that the deity residing in the temple is the giver of all kinds of wishes and that their prayers are answered here. Here are some facts about the Odisha temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Odisha

Worship Method:

Akhandalamani Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha is one of the most important Shiva shrines in the state. The worshipping method in this temple is mainly Aradi, which is believed to be the oldest method of worship according to Vedic scriptures. Aradi is a way of offering prayers with a combination of mantra recitations, offerings of flowers and aarti. This worship method is normally done in a clockwise direction for a specific period of time, usually 90 minutes. The mantra recited is specifically designed for this temple and changes from time to time according to the prevailing situations. In this temple, Aradi is usually done in the evening when the main deity, Lord Shiva is worshipped. Usually, devotees offer flowers, coconut and ghee, which are placed in front of the murti (statue of Shiva). After offering the food (naivedya) is offered to the deity and then the aarti is performed. Generally, the priests recite the Shiva Sahasranama Stotram (1000 names of Shiva) during the Aradi in a loud voice. After the Aradi, bhajans (prayerful songs) are recited and the aarti is performed once more to conclude the Aradi. This most visited temple in Odisha

Opening Timing:

The temple is open for visitors from 5 AM to 9 PM all days a week. top temples in Odisha

How to reach:

The Akhandalamani Temple - Aradi in Odisha is located in the Balijhara village, about 21km southwest of Bhadrak on the Bhadrak – Choudwar state highway. It can be reached by public bus from Bhadrak or from neighbouring town like Basudevpur, Jajpur Road and Dhamanagar. famous temples in Odisha