Gupteswar Temple
The Gupteswar Shiva shrine is located near Boipariguda, about 80 km from Koraput and 60 km from Jeypore, deep within the sal forests along the Kolab River in Odisha. Renowned for its natural beauty and spiritual importance, Gupteswar means “The Hidden God,” a name given to the Shiva lingam, which remained concealed inside the cave for centuries. The sacred lingam, measuring approximately 10 feet in circumference and about 3 feet in height, one reaches it after climbing nearly 200 steps along a serene path shaded by Champak trees.
According to legend, Lord Rama discovered this shrine during his exile in the Dandakaranya forest and named the deity Gupteswar. The Saberi River flows at the foot of the hill near the Gupteswar Shivalinga, adding to the site’s sanctity. Inside the cave, one can see several sacred features, including Kali Gai, Swargadwar, Parabhadi, Balibandha, and Debakunda. Shivaratri is the main festival celebrated here, while Kartik Purnima, Shravan Purnima, and other religious occasions are also observed with devotion.
