Gadakalupada Viswanath Temple – Odisha
Address
Gadakalupada Viswanath Temple – Odisha
Gadakalupada Village, Delanga Block,
Puri District,
Odisha 752015
Moolavar
Viswanath
Introduction
Viswanath Temple in Gadakalupada Village, Puri District, Odisha, India. This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva sounds like a significant historical and religious site. It is situated on the top of Viswanatha Hill (Biswanath Mundia) on the left bank of the Daya River.
Puranic Significance
- History: The temple is believed to have been built in the 15th century CE during the Gajapati period, indicating its historical significance.
- Architecture: The temple features a rekha vimana (tower) and a shallow entrance porch. It follows a pancharatha plan (having five sections) and panchangabada elevation. The temple faces west and is located on the top of Viswanatha Hill.
- Deity: The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva in the form of a Shiva Linga, enshrined within a circular Yonipitha.
- Exterior: The exterior of the temple lacks extensive decorative elements, but it includes niches for various purposes.
- Images: Within the temple premises, you can find various images, including a Navagraha panel, Astikajaratkaru, a bust part of a female devotee, a dilapidated six-armed deity, and Deula Charini.
- Monastery: The Biswanath Hill is also known for an ancient monastery associated with Dignag, a Buddhist logician and philosopher.
Century/Period
15th century CE
Nearest Bus Station
Motari
Nearest Railway Station
Motari Railway Station
Nearest Airport
Bhubaneswar