Lokanath Temple, Puri- History, Architecture, Entry Timing, and Much More!
Though formed from the devotion of Shree Ram, the Lokanath temple is the perfect example of fulfilling prayers by God itself and the attractive power of manifestation in front of which God also bows down. The temple not only come with strong power of devotion but also stands true to serenity and a peaceful environment.
Lord Lokanath, who appears as a lingam, is the temple’s principal deity and dates to the eleventh century. According to myths, Lord Rama established the lingam in this temple. When Lord Rama was on his way to Sri Lanka searching for Sita, he sat with a will to see Shiva there. At that time, a pumpkin(lau or lauki) from the neighboring community of Sabarapalli that resembled a Shiva linga was given to him. Lord Rama placed this as a replica of the Siva Linga there and prayed to grant his wish. As a result, the temple is known as Laukanatha and afterward Lokanath Temple.
The Shiva linga is always submerged in water, which supports the myth that Goddess Ganga flows through the Shiva linga’s top like a stream, making the temple unique.
Only on Pankodhar Ekadasi, the day before Shivaratri, when the lingam’s water is evacuated, can it be seen. Thousands of followers arrive for darshan on that day. It is widely thought that the linga has the ability to heal common people with all health-related issues.
The architecture of Lokanath Temple, Puri
The four components of the Lokanath temple are called Vimana, Jagamohana, Natamandapa, and Bhogamandapa. The main temple is around 30 feet above ground level and was constructed with sandstone. Images of several deities were stored within the main temple’s exterior walls.
The primary celebration, Saranti Somavar Fair, is observed with considerable fanfare. The Jagannath Temple in Puri has the Lokanath utsava murti. All of Lord Jagannath’s jewels and jewelry are protected by him as a guardian deity.
The majority of the temple was covered in marble, making the intricate architecture invisible to pilgrims. Images of several deities are enclosed by the exterior walls of the main temple. The main Lokanath temple contains a number of smaller temples.
A picture of Shiva and Parvati is etched onto the wall on the northern side. There is a picture of Kartikeya on the eastern wall. A four-handed Ganesha is etched into the southern side wall. The little temples contain all of these side wall images.
To the left of the inner courtyard is a modest shrine that has statues of Surya-Narayana and Candra-Narayana. The Satya-Narayan temple on the property houses brass idols of Vishnu, Lakshmi, and other deities. On the right side of the entry to the inner courtyard, there is a statue of Hanuman.
The grounds of Lokanath Temple are around 10 feet below the level of the road. Devotees can observe the Parvati Sagara, a sizable pond, on the right side as they descend the stairs from the main road. Fish in the pond receives food from worshippers.
The Bhandara Loknath temple, a symbolic image of Lord Lokanath is placed in the Sri Jagannatha Temple. He serves as the protector god of the Ratnabhandara (treasure house) in the Sri Jagannatha temple. In a number of festivals, including Chandan Yatra, Sital Sasthi, and Shivratri, Loknath is associated with Jagannath.
Ticket Price/ Entry Timings in Lokanath Temple
Entry is free in Loknath Temple and it is open for devotees from 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
How To Travel To Lokanath Temple
Address– NH 203, Chandanpur, Odisha- 752014, India
The local bus stop is just 4 Km from the Loknath temple in Puri. The nearest railway station is Chandanpur railway station which is just 1.2 km. Biju Patnaik International Airport is the nearest airport from where you can take a bus or book a cab to reach the temple.
Things to Remember When Visiting Lokanath Temple
- Observe Hindu customs by removing your shoes before entering the temple.
- Keep complete silence while inside the temple.
- Respect religious sentiments and practices.
- Be dressed properly
Best Time to Explore Lokanath Temple, Puri
While pilgrims continue to arrive throughout the year, try going to the temple between July and September, which is India’s monsoon season, to experience Puri’s most intensely religious side. Try to visit as well during the huge Pankhodar Ekadashi celebrations. When the Lingam emerges from the sea and is observed, it is three days before Maha Shivratri. The followers think that this is the only reason why Ganga keeps the lingam submerged on the other days of the year.
For followers of Lord Shiva, the Loknath Temple in Puri is a famous and holy destination for pilgrimage. The temple is a must-visit location for individuals seeking comfort, blessings, and spiritual upliftment because of its rich historical past, stunning architecture, and spiritual atmosphere. The Shivalinga, which is thought to have been installed by Lord Ram himself, adds to the temple’s sacredness. For prayers, rituals, and meditation, the temple’s calm environment, and devotional passion create a peaceful setting. It is a location where followers can find comfort, ask for favors, and feel a strong spiritual connection.