History:

is a temple located in the district of Balangir, Odisha. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been constructed in the 8th century AD by the king of the Somavansi dynasty. The temple is situated near the banks of the Chir drana river and enjoys majestic views of the nearby Balangir hills. It is believed to be the earliest Shiva temple in the region and is a popular destination for pilgrims all over India. The temple complex features a large Shiv Lingam along with several murtis, sculptures and inscriptions. The temple is also known for its colorful Sanjhi sculptures and vibrant murals. The temple also has a significant religious significance as it is believed to house a divine power that can bring miracles to those who visit it. It is one of the best temple in Odisha which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Chateshwar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in Balangir district in Odisha, India. 2. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is said to have been constructed by the Ganga Dynasty of Odisha in 13th century. 3. The temple is built in the Khakhara style, which is a popular and distinctive style of temple architecture from Odisha. 4. The temple complex comprises of a main shrine, a small temple to the south, several minor shrines and a waterbody called the Chateshwar Kunda. 5. The temple and its surrounds are an overwhelming example of the exquisite craftsmanship and architectural excellence of the medieval Odishan temples. 6. Festivals like Mahashivratri and Sankranti are celebrated here and devotees visit the temple to pay their respects throughout the year. 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:

The Chateshwar Temple at Balangir in Odisha is unique in its worship method. Instead of traditional Hindu prayers, the temple follows an unconventional worship practice called Virasat. This worship method has been followed for hundreds of years and still continues to this day. The temple is believed to be established in the 13th century, and its shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the Virasat worship method, a devotee starts his worship with the offering of red flowers to the Lord. Then, he reads verses from any scripture of his choice. After this, he claps hands for a few times and on each clap, he changes a line of the verses (the recitation looks like a call and response pattern). Then, he rings a bell three times and then shuts his eyes and bows down. The priest then offers an aarti (ritual of waving a lighted lamp in a circular motion) over the head of the devotee. Finally, the priest closes the doors and sprinkles sacred water on the entrance and also around the Lord's shrine. This unconventional method of worship is believed to enhance the devotee's spiritual experience. Every time the devotee performs these rituals, he experiences a spiritual connection to the Universal Energy. He can feel the power and grace of the Divine in his heart, mind, and soul. This most visited temple in Odisha

Opening Timing:

The Chateshwar Temple in Balangir Odisha opens from 07:30 am-08:00 pm every day. top temples in Odisha

How to reach:

Chateshwar Temple is located in Balangir, Odisha, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. By Air: The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar Airport which is about 234 km away from Balangir. By Rail: Balangir railway station is well connected with other cities. By Bus: Balangir is connected to other nearby major cities by several buses. One can hire a private taxi or tempo from nearby cities to reach Chateshwar Temple, Balangir. famous temples in Odisha