Lankeswari Temple, Hindu temple in Sonepur, Odisha, India.
Lankeswari Temple sits within the Mahanadi River and is dedicated to a goddess also known as Nikumbhilaa. The structure rises directly from the water, creating a rare and striking religious site in the landscape.
The region where the temple stands was historically known as Paschima Lanka, a name that connects the site to ancient local traditions. This historical link reflects the enduring religious significance of the area for many generations.
The Kaibarta fishing community regards this goddess as central to their spiritual life and gathers here for prayer and celebration. Visitors can observe how local devotees participate in rituals and festivals throughout the year.
Multiple routes through nearby towns like Ulunda, Dharmasala, and Birmaharajpur provide different ways to reach the temple. Planning your approach through one of these connected roads helps you arrive without confusion.
The temple's position directly within the Mahanadi River makes it one of the most unusual temple sites in the region. The connection between the sacred waters and the shrine creates a distinctive spiritual experience that visitors rarely encounter elsewhere.
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