Pancharatha Temple is a highly revered shrine at
Sonpur, in
Orissa. This beautiful temple, constructed in a chariot size, resembles the
Sun Temple at
Konark. The temple enshrines
Lord Shiva as the presiding deity. Other deities worshipped include
Lord Ganesh,
Lord Muruga and
Goddess Parvati.
Most noteworthy feature of the temple is that the idol of Lord Ganesh faces east; generally in all Shiva temples the idol faces south. It is believed that Pancharatha Temple was built by King Birmitra Singhdeo to commemorate the death of his son Prince Somobhusan.
Balangir Railway Station is the nearest railhead.
