Temples in Bhubaneswar summarize a extensive archives of the Bhubaneswaran architecture almost to two thousand years old, from 3rd century B. C. to 16th Century A.D. These imposing edifices enjoining the city horizon, are within a reasonable walking distance from one another. The 46-m high Lingaraj Temple marks the zenith of temple tradition of Bhubaneswar.
Bhubaneswar temples have a unique pattern of construction showcasing the way of Hindu architectural splendor. The temple complex is divided into four distinct parts, the outer chamber is the 'Jagamohana', the inner shrine of the presiding deity is known as Garbhagriha. The third part of the temple shrine is constructed into a conical shaped tower more commonly known as the "Nata Mandap", the Bhoga Mandap is the forth division of the temple. The temple walls are artistically carved out of numerous sculptures depicting the scenes from courtiers, celestial dancers, couples in erotic postures, birds, divine animals or scenes from religious epics and legends. Once there were more than 7000 temples now the testimony stands with 500 odd temples. Important temples are Temples of Lord Lingaraj, Mukteswar, Kedar Gouri, Raja Rani, Parsurameswar, Vaithal, Markandeswar, Paschimeswar, Vakeswar, Meghaswar etc.
