Completedreligious
Maha Shivaratri
Lingaraj Temple, Old TownSun, 15 February 2026 – Mon, 16 February 2026
About this festival
Lingaraj Temple's biggest night of the year. Pilgrims throng for the Mahadipa — a giant illuminated earthen lamp hoisted to the temple's 180-ft tower at midnight. Fast through the day, jagaran through the night, special abhisheka at the sanctum.
Traveller tip
Crowds peak 19:00–23:00. The Mahadipa is hoisted close to midnight — watch from the viewing platform on the north wall (non-Hindus can also enter here).
Essentials
Sun, 15 February 20264:00 am – Mon, 16 February 2026
Free to attend
OrganiserLingaraj Temple Managing Committee
ContactLingaraj Temple Office · +91-674-2530026
ParkingLingaraj North parking · ₹50
Dress codeTraditional Indian wear preferred (dhoti / saree / suit). No leather, no shorts, no phones/cameras inside.
PhotographyStrictly prohibited inside the boundary wall.
AccessibilityLimited — temple sanctums have steep stone steps; older shrines lack wheelchair ramps.
Entry rulesSanctum is open to Hindus only. Non-Hindus can view from the north-wall platform.