Why to visit Dhabaleswar Island
Dhabaleswar is known for the Lord Shiva temple that sits on a hill in the middle of the Mahanadi River. The temple, which is positioned on an island in the river near Mancheswar hamlet in the Athagarh block, 37 kilometres from Cuttack, is adorned with petroglyphs from the late 10th and 11th centuries.
The Dhabaleswar temple, both gorgeous and charming, is tucked in a natural location, far from the madding mob. 'Bada Osha' is regarded as the most fortunate of celebrations in this region. It attracts tens of thousands of followers and is celebrated with holy zeal. In November, 'Bada Osha' is celebrated just a day before Kartika Purnima.
Cuttack's Dhabaleswar Island, located on the Mahanadi River, is an extraordinary and delightful hideaway. It is a perfect weekend destination in Cuttack and is yet another reminder of tradition in harmony with environment that coexists with modern development in Odisha's major metropolis.
Facts :-
The temple was built in the midst of the Mahanadi River by King Purusottam Dev so that his queen Padmabati might praise Shiva. Historians, on the other hand, are quiet on the actual date of its founding. This hallowed site was once known as Hariharpitha, as per ancient texts.
How to reach ?
Boats and ferries are available to transport tourists from Cuttack to Dhabaleswar. Visitors can also pay a small price to use the foot-over bridge to go to the shrine.