A visit to Puri in Odisha is all about the world-famous Lord Jagannath Temple and the Rath Yatra. However, this city on the eastern coast of India has some more attractions for religious-minded visitors and Markandesvara Temple is one of those. This temple is located to the north of Lord Jagannath Temple and is believed to be built in the 12^th century.

Within the premises of Markandesvara Temple is located a tank which is known to be a site of many rituals. As per the legend, on this very place sage Markandeya meditated to invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva and this is the reason why this place holds immense value for Shiva followers. This eastward-facing temple is also known as Markandeya Shiva Temple and Markandeswara Mahadeva Temple whose presiding deity is a Sivalinga.

Markandesvara Temple is considered one of 52 sacred Shiva Places in India and also ranks as one of the Pancha Tirthas of Puri. The steps leading to the tank have few ancient stone inscriptions which help make this temple a place of interest for historians as well. It’s believed that these inscriptions belong to the Ganga Dynasty. So, when in Puri, make sure to visit this temple and experience the essence of the temple town in true sense.