Location: Situated at the Markandeswar Street, MarkandesvaraTemple is one of the five major pilgrimage sites of Puri. One can reach this place from the right side of Markandeswar road, leading from the chowk to the Puri-Brahmgiri Road.
Description: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, MarkandesvaraTemple is an ancient temple located in Puri. The temple is associated with the great sage Markandeshwara, a devotee of Lord Shiva. That might be the reason that the president deity of the temple is Shiv Lingam, a form of Lord Shiva. There is a Markandeshwara tank by the side of temple. This tank is used for performing various rituals and rites related to Hindu culture, including Pinda Dana, Mundan Kriya, etc. The tank is an open rectangular shaped structure, enclosed with stone walls. The walls are made of dressed laterite blocks. In the southern side of the tank, ghats are located where tourists can take a bath before worshipping in the temple. Dating back to 12th century, MarkandesvaraTemple is historical evidence that proves that Sri Ramanjuna visited Puri during 1107 and 1117.
Activities: This temple is a paradise for history lovers and archaeologists. Visitors can see the beauty of this ancient structure, as Markandesvaratemple reflects the ancient architecture style.
