Beleswar

Beleswar is a Shiva temple at Bada Gaon in Gope block of Puri district, about 17 kilometres from Puri, standing on a sand dune a few kilometres from the sea. The shrine is also called Beleswar Pitha and has a sea beach nearby. It follows the Shaiva tradition and is known for a local belief that Rama installed the lingam and worshipped it with bela leaves before marching to Lanka. Shivaratri is the usual occasion for pilgrims, who often combine a visit with a sea bath.

Local tradition holds that Lord Rama, on his way to Lanka, installed a Shiva lingam at this place and worshipped it with bela leaves. The shrine's name, Beleswar or Belesvar, is understood in this tradition as the lord worshipped with bela. This legend is a popular belief and does not come from a...