Nilakantheswar Holy Place Padmapur is 70 kilometers from Rayagada plus 20 kilometers from Gunupur. It is popular for its antiquities. Hills as well as woodlands border this place. On top of the hill, there are 5 Shiva holy places: Manikeswar holy place, Dhabaleswar holy place, Mallikeswar holy place, Nilakhantaswar holy place and also Pudukeswar holy place. The etchings on Mallikeswar’s walls, inform the tale of a thousand abbeys and also a Buddhist theorist called Dharmakriti. A seasonal water tank and also a cavern on the hill look attractive.
Padmapur is renowned for its cherished Buddhist sanctuary Nilakantheswar Temple, which sits majestically atop the rugged Jagamanda hills. The hallowed grounds were fashioned solely from seven colossal stones that were placed with divine precision. Upon the hilltop stand three additional sacred Shiva shrines – the tranquil Pudukeswar, the towering Dhabaleswar, and Mallikeswar whose spires touch the clouds. For many centuries, pilgrims have made the arduous journey to this scenic region of Rayagada drawn by legends of the sanctuary’s mystical origins and tales of the enlightened souls who once frequented its alcoves.
According to scripture, the holy site serves as the earthly abode of the great Manikeswar, where he often reflects on the eternal verities. Of late, a humble portico was added to the sanctuary’s antiquated facade so that wearied travelers may find respite in its shelter as they pay homage to that which transcends all understanding.
Background The sacred grounds have long held importance to many, integrated into the spiritual landscape in the seventh century. Padma Shri Dr. Satyanarayana Rajguru, a renowned chronicler and epigraphist of his time, determined the site of enlightenment as tied to the legendary Buddhist logician and philosopher Dharmakirti upon an etching of faith discovered etched into the hallowed stone.
It remains the lone abbey in Odisha’s Rayagada dedicated to such pursuits of peace. Tuesday bore witness to pilgrims new and familiar as the Maha Sivaratri festival swelled the sacred site with rhythmic reverie. Visitors gathered in observance of this auspicious day, some traveling from afar to pay their respects at a place which has for centuries served as a destination for introspection and community.
Tourist Facilities, Transportation, Tourist Attractions, How to Reach, Accessibility
Nearest Airport
The nearest Airport is Rourkela Airport, Rayagada, which is located around 61 KM distance from Nilakantheswar Temple and 285 km from Biju Patnaik International Airport.
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit Nilakantheswar Temple is at all times of the year.
Closest Railway Station
The Closest Railway Station is Padampur, which is located around 5 Km distance from Nilakantheswar Temple.
Opening Time
Nilakantheswar Temple’s opening time is Monday to Sunday 6 am to Evening 7 pm.
