Rest of Odisha · Kailash of the East
Kapilash Temple
A 13th-century Shiva temple on a 2,239-ft hill outside Dhenkanal, reached by 1,352 steps or a ghat road, with panoramic views, a deer park and a science park for children.
History & legend
The temple was built in 1246 CE by King Narasimha Deva I of the Ganga dynasty — the same king who built Konark — as recorded in an inscription at the site. Kapilash is where the sage Kapila is believed to have meditated, and Odia texts call it the Kailash of Utkal. Dhenkanal's Bhanja rulers were its patrons; the hill also has caves used by Buddhist monks and a shrine to Biswanath. The Dhenkanal Prajamandal movement of 1938 against the princely state used Kapilash as a rallying ground.
Timings
6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Best time to visit
Shivratri (Feb–Mar), October–February
Entry fee
Free · science park ₹20
Approx. cab from Puri (one way)
₹3,875 · 155 km × ₹25/km
Don't miss
- 1,352-step climb
- Chandrasekhar Shiva
- Sunset over Dhenkanal plains
- Deer park & science park
Local tip: Take the ghat road up and the steps down. Monkeys snatch food — keep snacks packed.
On the map
