
About the Temple
Also known as Yameswar Temple, is one of the most significant yet unknown landmarks of Puri. The temple is associated very closely with the Jagannath Temple .
Little is known about the temple in terms of its inception, though many historians believed it was constructed between the 10th and 11 Century AD.
The presiding deity is Lord Shiva who is worshiped as Yameswara and like Lokanath, the Lingam is situated below the ground level but without any water stream.
Legend
Being closely linked to the Jagananth Temple, there are many legends which are associated with the temple. It is believed that once Lord Yama ( the god of death) tried to disturb Lord Shiva’s meditation. An infuriated Lord Shiva defeated Lord Yama in the ensuing battle and hence the name Yameswar attached to this temple.
It’s also believed that the Pandavas- during their exile visited Puri and Yudhistira the eldest Pandava prayed here.
Lord Jameswara is also known to be the protector of the city of Puri.
Festival
Radhastami -On the occasion of Radhastami, Lord Sudarshana from Jagannath temple pays a visit to Lord Yameswara. The day is marked with great fanfare and festivities in the temple.
The festival of Yama Dwitiya is observed in this temple with great devotion. The festival falls in the auspicious month of Kartik Purnima (Dec).