Leaning Temple of Huma in Odisha

You must have heard of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but have you heard of a Leaning Temple? Interestingly, the only leaning temple in the world is located in India. Let us get to know more about this architectural marvel.

The leaning temple of Huma is located on the banks of river Mahanadi, near a village called Sambalpur in Odisha. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is one of the unique attractions of the state.

PC: AkkiDa

Architecture of the Leaning Temple of Huma

Apart from the main temple, there are other two temples in the temple complex - the Bhairavi Devi Temple and the Bhairo Temple. The temple is erected on a rocky surface at the banks of the river. The reason for the leaning is not clear. Some believe that it could be a technical flaw and some also opine that it is a part of the original temple design. However, the temple gained popularity due to this unique leaning structure.

Though the exterior of the temple is seen leaning to a side, the interior of the temple that includes the pinnacle of the temple is positioned perpendicular to the ground. Another interesting factor you would notice is that if the main temple leans in one direction, the smaller temples lean in some other directions. Since the land is close to the river, it is also believed that this could have formed over years as the surface of the earth on which the temples were built is uneven.

PC: MKar

Legend has it that a milkman used to worship Lord Shiva crossing the river, at the bank. This is where the rock cropped out, and when the milkman offered it some milk, it is said that the rock consumed it. This miraculous incident paved way to the construction of the temples.

Shivratri is one of the major festivals that are celebrated in the temple. An annual fair is held at the foothills of the temple during Shivratri, and the fair is attended by the locals and tourists that include foreign visitors. The Government of Odisha has also built a hanging bridge across the river to attract tourists to the fair.

PC: Jnanaranjan sahu

How to reach the Leaning Temple of Huma

The temple is located around 23km from the village of Sambalpur. You can take the help of public transport once you reach Sambalpur. Here's how to reach Sambalpur.

Travel to the world's only leaning temple, which is definitely one of the unique attractions of the world!