Panchalingeswar Temple Tikabali
Introduction
Dungi Shiva Temple is also known as "Panchalingeswar temple" is one of the oldest and most ancient temples nestled in the serene landscape of kandhamal, Odisha. This sacred place is a hidden store house for history enthusiasts,spiritual seekers, and travellers exploring offbeat destination.Located just 3 km from tikabali and approximately 38 km from Phulbani town,17 km from G.Udayagiri and the costal city Berhampur 126 km.
Legend and History
The Panchalingeswar temple is steeped in ancient and mythological legends. The five Shiva lingas represent in the form of lord shiva:- Baba Jaleswar(Linga visible in water )
- Baba Gupteswara(the Hidden form)
- Baba Dhabaleswara(The radiant white form)
- Baba Rameswara(Associated with lord Ram)
- Baba Bholeswara(Simplest form of lord Shiva)
Deity and Worship
The unlike traditional Shiva temple has different shrines with different names. Devotees perform abhishek by pouring water,milk, bel leaf, and flowers on the lingas by temple priest.
The temple priest perform daily rituals Abhishek and Arti. Mondays, especially during the month of sravan draw the largest number of devotees.
Architecture and Natural Setting
The ambience of the temple complex is magnificent. The temple reflects kalinga style architecture.All temple made of cement and bricks and display beautiful artwork.It is surrounded by forest atmosphere lush greenery and fresh crisp air contribute to an atmosphere a peace and introspection making the temple a truely immersive experience.There are two entry roads to the temple.The spiritual peace is found here.
Festivals and celebrations
MahaShivaRatri
Like all shiva temples MahaShivaratri is the most significant festival celebrated at Panchalingeswar.Where people come all over to fast, pray and stay up all night to worship lord shiva.The atmosphere is filled with chant and songs.
Shravana Month(Specially in Monday)
The month of Shravana devotees perform kaudia jatra(in between July - August) by carrying water from nearby stream to offer to the lingas.This events offer a lively look into the local culture and strong faith of the community.
Kartik Purnima
Fair is organised with cultural programs and tribal dances.
These occasions provide a vibrant glimpse into the local culture and the deep rooted faith of the community.
Best Time to Visit:
October to march the cooler month are idea for visiting. as the weather is pleasant for exploration.
July to September is the monsoon month can be magical with the surrounding nature at its lush best.
How to Reach
Nearest town :
Tikabali 3 km from the Dungi.
Nearest Railwa Station:
Berhampur. From berhampur you can hire car, or there is anytime bus to the tikabali in every one hour gap.
Nearby Air Port:
Bhubaneswar. From bhubaneswar also there is bus available to tikabali or to phulbani.
Accessibility:
The temple is located in a quiet area but can be reached by road. you can take local transport by auto rickshaws and taxi from nearby towns such as tikabali, Phulbani and G.Udayagiri.
Travel Tips and Visitors Experience
Carry offerings like milk,flower, coconuts for puja.
Cultural Importance
It represents odisha's deep spiritual history. The panchalingeswar is more than just a religeous place.It connects stories from nature and faith and creating a special experience where belief meets the natural world.
For travelers it is a serene retreat away from urban chaos. The temples simplicity and powerful aura make it a must visit destination in odisha.The local tribe kandha tribe consider the shrine sacred and participate in rituals along side traditional hindu priests.
This temple stands as a spiritual bridge between tribal heritage, natural worship and vedic traditions.
Conclusion
The panchalingeswar in dungi,tikabali is a special place that combines ancient beauty,tranquility. It is a sacred site for worshippers shiva and an unconventional spot for tourists looking for odisha's essence. Whether you are seeking blessings a closer bond with nature or a discovery of odisha's treasures,this is a must visit destination in your lifetime.
Jay Panchalingeswar...
Nearby Tourist Places:
Birupakhya Shiva Temple Chakapad