Vaital Deul Temple Odisha

While different temples of India boasts a unique architectural design and rich history, Vaital Deul Temple in Bhubaneshwar was built in the late 8th-century and is one of the oldest temples in Odisha. Being one of its kind, Vaital Deul Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundi (Kali) and was once devoted to the tantric cult. Presently, it is one of those shrines in Odisha that are highly revered amongst the Hindu devotees, and hence, receives a considerable footfall of pilgrims on auspicious occasions. The deul (tower) of the temple is the most striking feature of the architecture of this famous pilgrimage. Another attraction of this famous temple is a motif with the sun god. This motif is said to be a design or guide for the renowned Sun Temple in Konark. A visit to Vaital Deul Temple will certainly be a worth-memorable experience for the tourists.

History and Architecture of the Temple

Built in the 8th-century, Vaital Deul Temple is one of the epitomes of Kalinga style of architecture, that casts a mystic spell in the minds of visitors, and also belongs to Khakhara order- a subdivision of the Kalinga School of Architecture. A rectangular shape deul (tower), which is positioned at right angle to the Jagmohana, is the highlight of this sublime temple. The temple is crammed with the symbols of human sacrifice and also with some sculptures exhibiting the exoticism. The outer walls of the temple are adorned with panels of Hindu deities, mainly with Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, hunting cavalcades, erotic couples, and capturing of wild animals. Moreover, the roof vault of the temple represents ancient free-standing constructions made up of wood and thatch. Unlike the other existing Odishan Temple, the outer vault of Vaital Temple is plain. However, the traditional form of Odishan Temple has not been ignored in this temple, it has been carefully carved (in small forms) on the four corners of the Vaital Temple’s Jagmohana. The front part of the entrance of the shrine includes a four-faced linga embellished with unique carvings.

Opening/Closing Time

6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Best Time to Visit

The season of winter is considered as the best time to visit Vaital Temple. During this time, the temperature remains all pleasant and favourable to explore the city’s attractions.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

• Siddheshwar Temple
• Lingaraja Temple
• Rameshwar Temple
• Ananta Vasudeva Temple
• Parsurameswar Temple