Things to do Dhenkanal

ODISHA

Religious

Kapilash Temple

17.52 From Dhenkanal

Kapilash Temple, also known as Chandrashekhar Temple, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Odisha, located about 26 km from Dhenkanal town. Built in 1246 CE by King Narasinghdeva I, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands majestically at an altitude of 2,239 feet on Kapilash Hill. Devotees can reach the shrine either by climbing 1,352 steps or by taking the winding road. Popularly referred to as the second Kailash, Kapilash is surrounded by lush forests and also houses shrines like Lord Vishwanath and Budha Linga. The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with special crowds during Shivaratri and Mondays in the month of Shravan. Entry to Kapilash Temple is free, making it an easily accessible spiritual destination for devotees and tourists alike. Its serene setting, spiritual aura, and panoramic views make Kapilash Temple a must-visit attraction near Dhenkanal.

Religious

dhabaleswar temple

27.54 From Dhenkanal

Shree Shree Dhabaleswara Mandira is a revered Hindu temple located on an island in the Mahanadi River near Cuttack, Odisha. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is renowned for its peaceful ambiance, scenic river views, and historical significance. Devotees visit this sacred site to seek blessings from Lord Dhabaleswara, whose name means "Lord of the White" — a reference to the legend of Shiva turning a devotee's black bull white. The temple is especially popular during Kartika Purnima and Shiva Ratri, when thousands gather for rituals and riverboat pilgrimages. Accessible by a hanging footbridge or boat ride from Mancheswar ghat, the Dhabaleswara Temple offers a unique spiritual experience that blends devotion, heritage, and nature. It's one of the most important Shiva shrines in Odisha and a must-visit for religious tourism in eastern India.

fort

Barabati Fort

34.01 From Dhenkanal

Barabati Fort, located in Cuttack, Odisha, is a historic 14th-century fort built by the Ganga dynasty and stands as a symbol of Odisha’s rich heritage. Nestled on the banks of the Mahanadi River, the fort once served as a strong military base and royal residence. Today, visitors can explore its impressive stone walls, the ancient moat, and the ruins of the nine-storied palace that showcase the grandeur of medieval architecture. The fort is situated just 8 km from Cuttack Railway Station and about 30 km from Bhubaneswar Airport, making it easily accessible for tourists. Surrounded by lush greenery and the famous Barabati Stadium nearby, Barabati Fort is a must-visit destination for history lovers and travelers exploring Odisha.

Religious

Cuttack Chandi Temple

34.26 From Dhenkanal

The Cuttack Chandi Temple, located on the banks of the River Mahanadi in Cuttack, Odisha, is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas of Eastern India. Dedicated to Goddess Chandi, the presiding deity of the city, this temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially during Durga Puja and Kali Puja festivals. Situated near the historic Barabati Fort and easily accessible from Cuttack Railway Station (about 5 km) and Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (about 30 km), the temple is a must-visit spiritual destination for pilgrims and tourists. With its rich history, vibrant rituals, and serene surroundings, the Cuttack Chandi Temple stands as a significant landmark that showcases Odisha’s cultural and religious heritage.