It has been called a miniature gem of architecture for its graceful proportions and beautiful finish. The arched gateway or ‘torana’ is the “creation of an
artist of superior vision and skill” as also the large figure design repeated on each side of the tower, which is only 35 feet high. This temple’s most distinctive
feature is its torana or arch gateway showing the influence of Buddhist architecture and displaying an intricacy of carved detail unlike anything of its kind at
Bhubaneswar. Among the themes represented are a lady riding a rearing elephant, a skin-and-bones hermit teaching, cobras darting their heads, and lions fighting. Here, too, are celestial nymphs under cobra-headed hoods and languorous dancing girls. All the figures are full of life and beautifully draped. Another interesting attraction of the temple is a small well, called Marichi Kund. Its water is said to be having curative properties to get a female rid of infertility. The Mukteshvara Temple, a historical monument with architectural finesse, is considered a prime religious
tourist attraction in Bhubaneswar. Mukteshwar Dance Festival, a 3-day long cultural event, is organized annually in its premises. Odissi
classical dance and its various features are presented here.