Chitrakarini Temple - Hindu temple in Bhubaneswar - Khordha, India

I was totally in love with this temple. Such beauty, such grace, so much of intricate architecture. As if I wanted to spend more of my time here. All the greenery and the yellow blooming flowers were adding so much charm to the ethereal beauty of the temple. A must visit for sure. It's located in the same compound of Lingaraj Temple.

The Chitreswar temple, otherwise known as Chitrakarini is situated to the North of the Lingaraj temple within a close distance. It has four smaller temples in the four corners of the compound. It is a saptaratha temple and is one of the most beautifully decorated monuments. Within the sanctum a chamunda image is worshipped.

In Bhubaneswar, many temples are part of the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region. Our city is known for its numerous ancient temples, including those built during the Kalinga architecture period. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Chitrakarini, a form of the goddess Durga. The temple dates back to the 10th century and is one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar. The temple is located in a large complex that includes a garden and a pond. The main shrine of the temple is located behind a large Nandi statue. Inside the shrine is a beautifully and artistically crafted statue of the goddess Chitrakarini riding a lion. This temple is a must-see for anyone visiting Bhubaneswar. The temple is a beautiful and serene place to visit, and it offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. " Travel more to discover yourself"

Chitrakarini Temple is located approximately 75m east of Papanasini Temple Complex on Rath Road in Bhubaneswar, right next to northern Lingaraja Temple compound wall. The east-facing temple is built in the panchayatana layout, with a central main temple accompanied by four smaller subsidiary shrines. The temples are set within a pretty and well manicured garden that is maintained by the ASI. North lintel frieze of Jagamohana window depicting Krishna playing his flute amidst enchanted followers and listening cattle The temple is thought to have been constructed around the middle of the 13th century A.D. This potentially suggests it could have been instigated by the Ganga dynasty king Narasingha Deva I (also known as Parama Mahesvara) who reigned over the kingdom of Kalinga (ancient Odisha) between circa 1238 and 1264 A.D. This is the same ruler who is attributed as the builder of the Sun Temple at Konark. The temple's name is derived from the Goddess Chitrakarini, a Sanskrit term that roughly translates to "Paintress". She is a form of the Goddess Saraswati, who is regarded as the prime goddess of knowledge and creative expression.

Beutiful place, silent , very clean area . U must visit this place when visiting lingaraj temple.

The Kalinga architecture with Nagara style temple is well preserved with manicured gardens enhancing the sublime stone carved sculptures of the shrine, thanks to the efforts of Archeological Survey of India (ASI). Lingaraj teme and Chtrakarini teme share the common boundary wall and one can have a panoramic view of the former from here. Built in 13th century CE, the exquisite rich stone carvings depicting flowers, creepers, erotic couples, dancers, lions controlling elephants adorns the outer walls of the shrine. The main shrine is surrounded by four subsidiary small shrines in four corners. Chamunda is the presiding deity of the min shrine and Shaktism is the conduct of worship followed at this shrine.

Beautiful architectural monument under Archaeological Survey of India. The temple is in small compound on the way to Lingaraj Temple. Beautifully managed garden and temple as well. Best for photography also.

Best temple to visit in Bhubaneswar. There are hardly any visitors. It's serene calm and it's the pandit there who has created that sacred space. He serves the godess like his mother. It's divine. Must must visit.