Bhubaneswar, known as the City of Temples, is home to architectural marvels that span centuries. Among its many shrines, the Parasurameswara Temple holds a place of special importance—it is the oldest surviving temple in Bhubaneswar, dating back to the 7th century CE. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple not only continues to be a center of worship but also offers a rare glimpse into the earliest phase of Kalinga architecture.

A Temple Steeped in History

The Parasurameswara Temple was built around 650 CE during the rule of the Shailodbhava dynasty. Its survival through centuries makes it one of the most significant monuments in Odisha. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Parasurameswara, the lord of Parasurama, the sixth incarnation of Vishnu.

Despite its modest size compared to later temples like Lingaraj or Rajarani, it has immense historical and cultural significance. It marks the transition from rock-cut cave shrines to fully developed temple structures in Odisha.

Architectural Features

Parasurameswara is a classic example of early Nagara (Kalinga) style architecture.

Key Highlights:

• Vimana (Sanctum Tower) – The curvilinear spire (rekha deula) rises gracefully above the sanctum.
  
  
• Exquisite Carvings – Sculptures depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including images of Lord Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, and Kartikeya.
  
  
• Durga Mahishasuramardini – A striking relief of Goddess Durga slaying the buffalo demon, one of the earliest such depictions in Odisha.
  
  
• Motifs & Figures – Carvings of animals, floral patterns, and celestial beings highlight the artistry of the period.
  
  

Spiritual & Cultural Significance

• Oldest living temple in Bhubaneswar still used for worship.
• Important in tracing the evolution of temple architecture in Odisha.
• Revered as a powerful shrine of Lord Shiva.
• A site of devotion during festivals like Shivratri and Kartika Purnima.

Visitor Information

• Location: Near Bindu Sagar Lake, Old Town, Bhubaneswar.
  
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
  
• Entry Fee: Free.
  
• Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather; evenings for a serene atmosphere.
  

Final Word

The Parasurameswara Temple is not just an ancient monument—it is a living witness to Bhubaneswar’s sacred history. With its modest size yet profound artistry, it reflects the beginnings of Odisha’s temple-building tradition that later flourished into monumental structures like Lingaraj and Konark.

For devotees, historians, and travelers, a visit to Parasurameswara is a journey back in time—to where Bhubaneswar’s temple story first began.

Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parsurameswara_Temple