Kedar Gauri Temple
Kedar Gauri Temple is one of the oldest and most culturally significant temple complexes in Bhubaneswar. Located in the Old Town area, it is actually a twin temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva (Kedar) and Goddess Parvati (Gauri). The temple is steeped in legends, most notably the tragic love sto ry of two lovers, Kedar and Gauri, who are believed to have sought refuge here. According to the myth, King Lalatendu Keshari built this temple in their memory. Another tradition identifies the site as the spot where Lord Shiva and Gauri stayed after leaving Varanasi. The complex houses two ancient ponds, the Khira Kund and the Marichi Kund. The water of Marichi Kund is believed to possess medicinal properties, particularly for women. As one of the Astasambhu (eight Shiva) temples of the city, it holds a special place in the hearts of local devotees. The serene environment, shaded by large banyan trees, provides a stark contrast to the modern city outside. The temple is situated very close to the famous Mukteswar Temple, making it a key stop on any heritage walk. The rituals performed here follow ancient traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries. It is particularly popular among couples who visit to seek blessings for a long and happy married life.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 HourPlace Type:
Ancient Heritage / ReligiousEntry Fees:
Entry is completely Free. There are no tickets for the temple or the ponds. Small donations for the maintenance of the shrine can be made voluntarily to the priests. ...Entry is completely Free. There are no tickets for the temple or the ponds. Small donations for the maintenance of the shrine can be made voluntarily to the priests.Timing:
Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning (7 AM) to witness the morning rituals without the midday heat. It is open every day. ...Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning (7 AM) to witness the morning rituals without the midday heat. It is open every day.Special Events:
Sital Sasthi in June is a grand affair where a massive procession carries the deities. Maha Shivaratri is also celebrated with night-long prayers and thousands of lamps lighting up the complex. ...Sital Sasthi in June is a grand affair where a massive procession carries the deities. Maha Shivaratri is also celebrated with night-long prayers and thousands of lamps lighting up the complex.Best Photo Spots:
Best Spots:
Marichi Kund: The stone steps leading into the emerald water are very photogenic.
The Twin Spires: Capturing both the Kedar and Gauri shrines in one frame shows the unique symmetry.Best Spots:
Marichi Kund: The stone steps leading into the emerald water are very photogenic.
The Twin Spires: Capturing both the Kedar and Gauri shrines in one frame shows the unique symmetry.
Banyan Tree: The ancient roots hanging over the temple walls provide a mystical atmosphere.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Activities:
Offer Prayers: Perform a simple puja at the Kedar shrine for inner peace.
Holy Dip: Sprinkle the sacred water of Marichi Kund on yourself for blessings.
Architecture Study: Observe the transition between early and middle Kalinga architectural styles.
Photography: The shadows cast by the ancient trees on the sandstone walls make for artistic photos.
Cultural Interaction: Talk to the local priests to learn about the legend of the lovers.
Heritage Walk: Use the temple as a starting point to explore the nearby Mukteswar and Parsurameswar temples.
Meditation: Sit by the stone ponds and enjoy the cool breeze and spiritual si...Activities:
Offer Prayers: Perform a simple puja at the Kedar shrine for inner peace.
Holy Dip: Sprinkle the sacred water of Marichi Kund on yourself for blessings.
Architecture Study: Observe the transition between early and middle Kalinga architectural styles.
Photography: The shadows cast by the ancient trees on the sandstone walls make for artistic photos.
Cultural Interaction: Talk to the local priests to learn about the legend of the lovers.
Heritage Walk: Use the temple as a starting point to explore the nearby Mukteswar and Parsurameswar temples.
Meditation: Sit by the stone ponds and enjoy the cool breeze and spiritual silence.
Information
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Why Famous:
It is famous for the Sital Sasthi festival, which celebrates the marriage of Shiva and Parvati. The temple is also renowned for the Marichi Kund, whose water is said to cure various ailments and bring good fortune. ...It is famous for the Sital Sasthi festival, which celebrates the marriage of Shiva and Parvati. The temple is also renowned for the Marichi Kund, whose water is said to cure various ailments and bring good fortune. -
Architecture:
Architecture & Design: The complex features two main shrines built in the Kalinga Buddhist architecture style. The Kedar Temple is south-facing and contains a Shivalinga, while the Gauri Temple is intricately carved with floral motifs and feminine figures. The height of th...Architecture & Design: The complex features two main shrines built in the Kalinga Buddhist architecture style. The Kedar Temple is south-facing and contains a Shivalinga, while the Gauri Temple is intricately carved with floral motifs and feminine figures. The height of the main spire is approximately 13. 7 meters. The temple is notable for its Vimana and Jagamohana structures, typical of the 10th-century Odishan style. The use of red sandstone gives the structures a warm, ancient glow. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Biju Patnaik Airport is just 4 KMS away.
By Train: Bhubaneswar Railway Station is about 5 KMS away.
By Road: Accessible through the narrow lanes of Old Town, near Lingaraj road.
Read MoreBy Air: Biju Patnaik Airport is just 4 KMS away.
By Train: Bhubaneswar Railway Station is about 5 KMS away.
By Road: Accessible through the narrow lanes of Old Town, near Lingaraj road.
By Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are the best way to navigate the narrow heritage streets.Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Best Time:
Winter (November to February): Best for walking between different temples in the Old Town.
Early Morning: The air is fresh, and the temple is less crowded.
Sunset:...Best Time:
Winter (November to February): Best for walking between different temples in the Old Town.
Early Morning: The air is fresh, and the temple is less crowded.
Sunset: The red sandstone glows beautifully during the golden hour.Near Tourist Places:
1. Mukteswar Temple (0. 2km), 2. Parsurameswar Temple (0. 3km), 3. Lingaraj Temple (1. 1km), 4. Bindu Sagar (0. 8km), 5. Rajarani Temple (1. 5km), 6. Ananta Vasudeva Temple (1km), 7. Odisha State Museum (3km), 8. Dhauli Stupa (8km), 9. Khandagiri (9km), 10. Ekamra Haat (5km).Tourism Tips
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Tips:
Health & Safety: The steps near the ponds can be slippery; walk carefully.
Packing: Carry a small towel if you intend to use the holy water.
Accommodation: Many herita...Tips:
Health & Safety: The steps near the ponds can be slippery; walk carefully.
Packing: Carry a small towel if you intend to use the holy water.
Accommodation: Many heritage homestays are available in the Old Town area.
Cash & Connectivity: Keep Cash for small temple offerings. Mobile connectivity is decent but can be patchy inside stone structures.
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