Naganatheswar Temple is located at Naganabasti and 20 km from Dhenkanal Town. Lord Shiva is worshipped in this temple. It is one of the 12 Yotir Lingas. One of the Yotir Linga is in the Daruka Neem forest. It is the most ancient Shiva temple in Odisha. The temple was built during the reign of the Keshari dynasty. Naganatheswar temple is one of the tourist places in Dhenkanal. At the heart of the temple lies a powerful Shivalinga, resting on a Yoni Patta and symbolising the cosmic union of Shiva and Shakti. The temple continues to host daily rituals, and the deities are adorned with traditional attire, much like those in larger temples across India. The lower-level shrine and the small Pushkarini (ritual pond) nearby create an aura of tranquillity and introspection.
History of Naganatheswar Temple
Believed to have been constructed during the 12th century by a king of the Kesari dynasty, the temple was a vibrant centre of Shaivite worship. Its architecture reflects the classical Kalingan style, with a soaring Rekha Deula (sanctum) and a pillared Jagamohana (assembly hall) capped with a terraced roof. Despite being partially destroyed in the 15th century by the invading general Kalapahad, the spirit of the temple endured. Local rulers and villagers rebuilt it from its ruins, reviving its sanctity brick by brick.
Intricate carvings on the temple walls narrate a spiritual story. Alongside depictions of Lord Shiva, one finds images of Vishnu, Devi, Ganesha, and striking Maithuna (celestial couple) motifs—each piece is a testament to the temple’s cultural and religious richness. These artworks reflect the harmony of Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism that once thrived here. Throughout the year, the temple echoes with chants and the sound of bells during major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Kartika Purnima, and Makar Sankranti. These celebrations draw devotees from all over Odisha and beyond, turning the quiet village into a vibrant hub of faith.
