Discover the famous temples of Chhattisgarh – a journey through ancient architecture, rich heritage, and spiritual experiences
Chhattisgarh, often referred to as the Land of Temples, is a treasure trove of spiritual heritage and architectural brilliance. The temples of this state are a harmonious blend of history, mythology, and artistic craftsmanship. These sacred sites not only reflect the region’s deep-rooted cultural traditions but also showcase intricate carvings, unique designs, and stories that span centuries. From the echoes of ancient rituals to the peaceful ambience that envelops them, the temples of Chhattisgarh offer an enchanting experience, drawing pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and travelers alike into their timeless charm.
KULESHWAR TEMPLE, NAVGAON (GARIABAND DISTRICT)
Kuleshwar Mahadev Temple, a significant pilgrimage site in Rajim, is located on the southern bank of the Mahanadi River, where it converges with the Pairi and Sondhur rivers. Often referred to as the “Prayag Raj of Chhattisgarh,” Rajim is steeped in spiritual and historical significance. In ancient times, it was known as Kamal-Kshetra or Padmapur. The Rajiv Lochan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a major attraction, drawing pilgrims year-round. Other notable temples in the area include the Rajeshwar, Daneshwar, and Ram Chandra temples, each contributing to the site’s cultural heritage. At the sacred confluence (sangam), the Kuleshwar Temple, dating back to the 9th century AD, stands majestically on a raised platform. This east-facing temple is renowned for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance, making it a vital part of Rajim’s holy landscape.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (42 km).
By Train: The closest railway station is at Raipur (52 km).
By Road: Raipur (52 km)
SHIV TEMPLE, CHANDKHURI (DISTRICT RAIPUR)
Located on the left bank of Chandkhuri village, this temple is situated 12 km from Hasaud, along National Highway No. 06 (Nagpur-Sambalpur Road). Built during the 10th-11th centuries AD, the temple’s entrance features a beautifully adorned door arch, which is believed to have originated from a ruined Somvanshi temple dating back to the 8th century AD. The arch showcases depictions of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna, while a prominent image of Gajalakshmi appears on the lintel. A striking scene from the Hindu epic Ramayana, depicting the duel between Bali and Sugreeva, as well as Tara mourning her deceased son, is depicted on one side of the arch. This Pancharath temple, designed in the Nagara architectural style, stands as an impressive example of regional temple architecture.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 26 km).
By Train: The closest railway station is at Raipur (approximately 22 km).
By Road: Raipur (approximately 23 km)
SIDDESHWAR TEMPLE, PALARI (DISTRICT BALODA BAZAR-BHATAPARA)
Situated in Palari village of Baloda Bazar district, approximately 70 kilometers from Raipur, Siddeshwar Temple is a splendid relic of 7th–8th century AD architecture. Located on the bund of the Balsamund Talab, this west-facing brick temple showcases intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage. The doorway of the temple is adorned with exquisitely carved figures of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna in the tribhanga posture. The doorjamb also features depictions of the Trideva (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) and the divine marriage of Shiva. At the heart of the temple lies a Shiva Linga, known as ‘Siddheshwar,’ which is worshiped by devotees. The temple’s ornate decorations include Kirtimukha motifs, as well as figures of elephants, Ganesha, and lions skillfully depicted within chaitya windows. This temple stands as one of the finest examples of early brick temple architecture in the Chhattisgarh region.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 79 km), Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport, Bilaspur (61km)
By Train: The closest railway station is at Raipur (approximately 71 km).
By Road: Raipur (approximately 71 km)
CHITAWARI DEVI TEMPLE, DHOBNI (DISTRICT BALODA BAZAR-BHATAPARA)
The Chitavari (Chitawri) Devi Temple in Dhobni village of Raipur district, is an architectural gem situated about 57 kilometers from Raipur city, along the Raipur-Bilaspur road. The temple stands on a raised platform near a tank and exhibits a unique star-shaped (Tarakriti) design, believed to date back to the 8th–9th century AD. Originally constructed as a Shiva temple, the sanctum was later modified during the medieval period. The Shiva Linga inside was painted with sindoor and worshipped as Chitavari Devi, giving the temple its current name and significance. The temple’s architectural style and historical lineage make it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the region’s cultural heritage. Its serene location near the tank adds to the spiritual and aesthetic charm of the place.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 73 km).
By Train: The closest railway station is at Raipur (approximately 55 km).
By Road: Raipur (approximately 57 km)
PHANIKESHWARNATH MAHADEV TEMPLE, PHINGESHWAR (DISTRICT GARIABAND)
This historically significant temple is located 73 km from Raipur, 25 km from Rajim, and 12 km south of the Mahanadi River. The temple enshrines a Shivalinga named Phanikeshwarnath in its sanctum sanctorum and features two primary sections: the sanctum and the mandap. The east-facing mandap is supported by sixteen intricately designed pillars, while the door frame showcases carvings of river goddesses. The mandap connecting the main temple to another structure seems to have been added later. The outer walls display beautifully engraved panels, featuring scenes from the Ramayana, Krishna Leela, and Mithun motifs arranged in two rows. The mandap houses broken yet remarkable statues of Vaishnavi, Mahishasuramardini, and a Chaturbhuji Ganesha in a seated posture, all of which are noteworthy. This temple is part of the Panchkoshi Parikrama pilgrimage circuit of Rajim and stands as an excellent example of later-period temple architecture.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 59 km).
By Train: The closest railway station is at Raipur (approximately 69 km).
By Road: Raipur (approximately 70 km)
ANAND PRABHU KUTI VIHAR, SIRPUR (DISTRICT MAHASAMUND)
Situated on the southern bank of the Mahanadi, Sirpur is an important archaeological site and the ancient capital of South Kosala. Located in Mahasamund district, it is 85 km from Raipur and 16 km from Kuhari village on the Nagpur-Sambalpur highway. Excavations conducted between 1953 and 1956 by Shri M.G. Dixit, on behalf of Sagar University, unearthed the ruins of a two-story monastery and various cultural relics. Anand Prabhu Kuti Vihar, an east-facing brick structure built in the 7th century AD, served as a place of residence and worship for Buddhist monks, including the renowned monk Anandprabhu. The central chamber houses a Padmasana statue of Lord Buddha, along with sculptures of Nadi Devi and Padmapani Avalokiteshwar. The brick rooms open into a large Mahamandap, making it a notable example of Buddhist architecture. Sirpur’s rich heritage of Buddhist monasteries highlights its significance as a cultural and historical center.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 74km).
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (approximately 82 km), Mahasamund (38 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 85 km), Sirpur (1.6km)
BUDDHA VIHARAS, SIRPUR (DISTRICT MAHASAMUND)
Swastik Vihara, located about 400 meters from Anand Prabhu Kuti Vihar in Sirpur is a historically significant Buddhist monastery known for its unique architectural design. The monastery’s layout, when viewed from above, resembles the swastika symbol, a design element that lends the site its name. Built around 7th Century AD, the monastery houses a 6 feet-tall statue of Buddha in the Bhumisparsha Mudra, representing the moment of his enlightenment. Buddha is flanked by Padmapani, holding a fly-whisk in one hand while resting the other on his waist. The site also features a recently uncovered sculpture of Hariti, carved in red sandstone, adding to the richness of the vihara’s historical and artistic significance. Swastik Vihara serves as a spiritual and architectural marvel, drawing visitors and researchers interested in Buddhism and ancient Indian art.
Located in Sirpur village, approximately 37 km from Mahasamund, Teevardev Vihara is another remarkable Buddhist monastery known for its historical and spiritual significance. In 2013, His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited the Buddha viharas in the region and recognised Sirpur as a site of rare historical monuments.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 74km).
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (approximately 82 km), Mahasamund (38 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 82 km), Sirpur (1.6km)
JAGANNATH TEMPLE, KHALLARI (DISTRICT MAHASAMUND)
Situated in the village of Khallari, approximately 22 km from Mahasamund city on the Bagbahara road, this historic temple traces its origins to the 13th century AD. According to a stone inscription found at the site, the temple, originally dedicated to Narayan and now known as the Jagannath Temple, was constructed by a cobbler named Devpal.
The temple faces east and features three sections: the sanctum sanctorum, the antaral khanda, and a mandap supported by 16 pillars. Built in the Panchrath layout and Nagara style, it serves as an excellent example of Kalchuri-era temple architecture. Nearby, the Khallari Mata Temple, located on a hill, adds to the area’s cultural and historical significance and is believed to date back to the 15th century.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (71 km).
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (80 km), Mahasamund (25 km)
By Road: Raipur (80 km), Khallari (4 km)
BHORAMDEV TEMPLE, CHHAPRI (DISTRICT KABIRDHAM)
Bhoramdev is a renowned ancient temple of central India, located near the village of Chapri, about 18 km northwest of Kawardha in Kabirdham district and about 117 km from Raipur. The temple is surrounded by the Saletekri hills of the Satpura range. Constructed in the 11th century AD during the reign of Gopaldev, the sixth ruler of the Phaninaga dynasty of Chavarapur and a contemporary of Kalchuri king Prithvidev I, this temple is a masterpiece of Nagar-style architecture. The temple showcases intricate carvings on its outer walls, including Mithuna figures, depictions of elephants, horses, dancers, and various deities like Chamunda, Saraswati, Ganesha, Nataraja, and Shiva. The temple structure comprises a Maha Mandap, three Ardha Mandaps, an Antaral, and a Garbha Griha, standing at a height of 16 meters (53 feet) from the ground.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 156 km).
By Train: The closest railway station is Raipur (approximately 136 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 117 km), Kawardha (17 km)
CHERKI MAHAL, CHAURA (DISTRICT KABIRDHAM)
Located in the Shankari Valley of Chaura village, Cherki Mahal lies about half a kilometer west of Mandwa Mahal. This smaller temple, constructed in the 14th century AD by a ruler of the Phaninaga dynasty, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built using brick with lime plaster on its walls, the temple faces east. At its center, the sanctum sanctorum houses a black stone Shivalinga along with an idol of Lord Ganesha. The intricately carved black stone doorframe features depictions of four-armed Ganesha, Shiva-Parvati, and river goddesses. It is believed that animals such as goats (locally called “cheri”) were once kept here, leading to its name, Cherki Mahal.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 151 km).
By Train: The closest railway station is at Raipur (approximately 133 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 135 km)
MANDWA (MADHWA) MAHAL, CHHAPRI (DISTRICT KABIRDHAM)
Mandwa Mahal, an ancient Shiva temple, is located about 1 km south of the Bhoramdev Temple in Chapri village. This west-facing temple consists of two main sections: the Mandap (hall) and the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). Known locally as Mandwa (Madhwa) Mahal, the name is believed to be derived from the large, sixteen-pillared Mandap, with “Mandwa” being a variation of the word “Mandap.” The temple’s Mandap rests on 16 intricately carved stone pillars, while the Garbhagriha sits about one and a half meters below the Mandap floor. The black stone entrance to the sanctum features detailed floral and creeper carvings, with depictions of Shiva’s gatekeepers on either side. A figure of Ganesha adorns the lintel, and a Shivling is enshrined on a Jaladhari within the sanctum. Mithun idols are carved on the outer walls of the Garbhagriha. Built in the 15th century AD, this temple reflects the architectural style of the local Phaninaga dynasty. Renovations have been carried out on the Mandap and Shikhara, and the influence of tantric traditions can be observed in the temple’s design.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 151 km).
By Train: The closest railway station is at Raipur (approximately 132 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 135 km)
BAJRANG BALI TEMPLE, SAHASPUR (DISTRICT BEMETARA)
Located 4 km from Devkar on the Durg-Bemetara Road, in the village of Sahaspur, this temple is dedicated to Bajrangbali (Hanuman Ji). The temple earned its name after the villagers installed the statue of Hanuman Ji in the sanctum sanctorum. The structure includes a mandap, an interval space, and a sanctum sanctorum, all supported by eight pillars. It is believed that this temple was constructed by the Nagavanshi rulers during the 13th-14th century AD. The back wall of the temple features statues of Venugopal and Suryadev seated on Sapt Ashvarath, with three Mithun statues positioned in the upper row. On the right wall, depictions of Shatbhuji Nritta Ganapati and Bhairav are also visible.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 76 km).
By Train: The closest railway station is at Raipur (approximately 60 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 60 km)
Ancient (Prachin) Shiv Mandir
SHIV TEMPLE, SAHASPUR (DISTRICT BEMETARA)
Located near the Bajrangbali temple in Sahaspur village, this east-facing Shiv Temple features a sanctum sanctorum, antaral, and mandap. The peak, with an amalaka and kalash, is built in the Nagara style. The mandap floor is raised slightly higher than the sanctum sanctorum, and the mandap is supported by sixteen pillars, each adorned with carvings of snakes. The door lintel showcases a four-armed Shiva, with Brahma depicted on the right and Vishnu on the left, while the nine planets are carved in reverse order beneath. The sanctum sanctorum houses a Shivalinga placed on a Jaladhari (Yonipeeth). The temple’s ceiling is decorated, and its walls feature idols such as Nataraja Shiva on the left, Sthanaka Surya on the back wall, and four-armed Nritta Ganapati on the right. Believed to have been built during the 13th-14th century AD under the reign of the Phaninaga dynasty kings of Kawardha, this temple is a fine example of Nagara-style architecture and remains in good condition. (remove)
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 76 km).
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (approximately 60 km), Durg (44 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 60 km)
SHIV TEMPLE, NAGPURA
Located on the left bank of a pond in Nagpura village, 16 km from Durg city along the Durg-Khairagarh road, this ancient Shiv Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and faces east. Today, only the sanctum sanctorum remains intact. The temple’s door frame is intricately decorated, and its outer walls feature statues of Ganesha, Harihar, and Brahma. Believed to have been built during the reign of the Kalchuri kings of Raipur around the 12th century AD, the temple follows a Pancharanth ground plan and is well-preserved.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (64 km).
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (49 km), Durg (12 km)
By Road: Raipur (60 km)
SHIVA TEMPLE AND CHATURBHUJI TEMPLE, DHAMDHA (DISTRICT DURG)
Located in Dhamdha Town, Durg district, Chhattisgarh, the Shiv Temple and Chaturbhuj Temple form an important Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. These temples were constructed during the 14th–15th century CE, adding significant historical and religious value to the region. The temples are positioned between Budha Talab and Chaugadhia Talab, enhancing their scenic and spiritual significance.
The Shiva Temple consists of a sanctum and an ardha mandapa (front hall). A Nandi statue is placed outside the temple, facing the sanctum, in keeping with traditional temple design. Inside the sanctum, a Shiva Linga is enshrined, placed on a circular yonipitha. The Chaturbhuj Temple comprises a sanctum and a frontal porch. Inside the sanctum, an image of four-armed Lord Vishnu is enshrined, representing the temple’s dedication to the deity.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 63 km).
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (approximately 48 km), Durg (32 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 48 km)
SHIV TEMPLE – BALOD, PALARI
The Shiv Temple in Palari village, located along the Dhamtari-Gundardehi road in Balod tehsil of Durg district, is an ancient religious site dedicated to Lord Shiva. The village is approximately 12 km from Dhamtari, and the temple is situated on the embankment of the village’s Dev Talab (sacred pond). The temple faces the east direction, symbolizing auspiciousness in Hindu architecture. Believed to have been built during the reign of the Nagvanshi kings in the 14th to 15th century, the temple showcases historical and architectural significance. Its design includes a mandap (pillared hall) and a sanctum supported by sixteen intricately carved pillars. The pillars of the mandap are adorned with Kirtimukh motifs, adding to the artistic charm of the structure. Despite its age, the temple has been preserved well, allowing visitors to appreciate its heritage.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 77 km).
By Train: The closest railway stations is at Raipur (approximately 70 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 70 km)
KAPILESHWAR GROUP OF TEMPLES (BALOD DISTRICT)
Located in Balod Town in Balod District, Chhattisgarh, the Kapileshwar Temple Complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is of both historical and archaeological importance. Constructed by the Nagavanshi rulers during the 13th–14th century CE, the temple complex showcases the region’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
The temple complex comprises six temples, each dedicated to a different deity, contributing to the diversity of the sacred site. These temples are:
- Kapileshwar Temple
- Ganesh Temple
- Durga Temple
- Ram Janki Temple
- Radhakrishna Temple
- Hanuman Temple
Built from a single stone, the Kapileshwar temple contains only the sanctum sanctorum, where a Shivalinga is enshrined. Snakes are intricately carved around the peak of the temple, a feature also present on the Durga Temple and other temples in the complex. Stone steps lead down into the stepwell, where the water is used to anoint the Shivalinga and other idols. On either side of the Kapileshwar Temple, large four-armed Ganesha statues stand. The site is of significant religious and archaeological importance, with a well-organised and visually appealing layout.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (113 km). Bhilai Airport (74 km)
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (92 km), Balod (1 km)
By Road: Raipur (92 km), Bhilai (64 km)
DEVRANI-JETHANI TEMPLE (DISTRICT BILASPUR)
During the Sharabhpuriya kings’ rule in South Kosal, two Shiva temples were built on the banks of the Maniyari River. These temples are as follows:
Devrani Temple:
The semi-ruined Devrani Temple, made of stone, faces east and stands 32 feet tall. It features a sanctum sanctorum, an interval, and a narrow Mukhamandap. A staircase leads to the temple’s threshold. Notable sculptures include a 2.7-meter Rudrashiv statue, with unique animal and deity motifs, including snakes, lions, and peacocks. The statue’s design is debated, with scholars questioning its identification due to the absence of clear Shiva characteristics (remove). The temple, dating to the 6th century AD, also features depictions of various Hindu deities, animals, and geometric symbols.
Jethani Temple:
The Jethani Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, faces south. Excavations have revealed its sanctum sanctorum, mandap, and a wide staircase leading to the main entrance. Surrounding the structure are thick, decorated pillars. The sanctum is heavily damaged, and there’s no evidence of the temple’s peak. The remains at Tala exemplify the unique architectural style of Chhattisgarh, preserving the region’s heritage.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 116 km)
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (approximately 98 km), Bilaspur (30 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 100 km), Bilaspur (28km)
ANCIENT RUINED BRICK TEMPLE – GARHDHANORA
The Garh Dhanora area, located approximately 3 km west of Batrali village (which is 3 km from Kosal) along National Highway No. 43 (Raipur-Jaipur Road), is home to the remains of several ancient brick temples. This site is composed of three distinct temple groups: Vishnu Temple Group, Gobarheen Temple Group, and Banjarin Temple Group.
- Vishnu Temple Group: This group includes a total of 10 temples, dedicated to deities such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Narasimha.
- Banjarin Temple Group: This group consists of the ruins of four temples and a residential building.
- Gobarheen Temple Group: Here, a significant brick mound rises with a sanctum sanctorum and interval, where a Shivalinga is enshrined. The group also contains the remains of two other temples.
All these structures are crafted from brick and are believed to have been constructed during the reign of the Nala Dynasty, between the 5th and 7th centuries AD. Some remarkable statues found at Garh Dhanora, such as a two-armed Vishnu statue made of black stone, are displayed in the District Archaeological Museum in Jagdalpur. This statue is particularly significant for its artistic value. A fair is held here every year during the Shivaratri festival, drawing devotees and visitors alike. Set amidst a dense forest, Garh Dhanora offers a scenic and historically rich destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 164 km), Jagdalpur (128 km)
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (approximately 174 km), Jagdalpur (130 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 175 km), Jagdalpur (128 km)
SHIV TEMPLE, GUMADPAL (BASTAR DISTRICT)
The Mahadeva Temple in Gumadpal Village, located in Darbha Tehsil, Bastar District, Chhattisgarh, is a significant religious site dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, constructed by the Kakatiya rulers in the 13th century CE, holds historical and cultural importance. The temple’s architecture features key elements such as the sanctum (garbhagriha), antrala (vestibule), and mandapa (ceremonial hall). The sanctum, which is square-shaped, enshrines a Shiva Linga placed within a yonipitha, symbolizing the presence of Lord Shiva. This temple is a noteworthy example of ancient religious architecture in the region.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 326 km), Jagdalpur (49 km)
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (approximately 336 km), Jagdalpur (51 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 337 km), Jagdalpur (46 km)
SHIV TEMPLE, CHHINDGAON (DISTRICT CENTRAL BASTAR)
The Shiv Temple in Chhindgaon, located 26 km from Jagdalpur along the Jagdalpur-Chitrakot road in Central Bastar district, is situated near the banks of the Indravati River. To reach the temple, one must travel 6 km from the main road, passing Baroji village. Originally, the temple’s architectural layout included a semi-mandap, mandap, and sanctum sanctorum, though the semi-mandap and mandap are now in ruins. The upper section of the shikhara has also been severely damaged. The entrance to the sanctum sanctorum is adorned with a simple door frame, featuring a depiction of Lord Ganesha sitting at the center of the lintel. Historical records suggest that this temple was likely constructed in the 12th century AD by the Chhindak Naga dynasty. The idols of Narasimha and Chamunda once housed in the temple have been relocated by the villagers to the newly constructed Danteshwari Mai Temple nearby.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (283 km), Jagdalpur (26 km)
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (336 km), Jagdalpur (33 km)
By Road: Raipur (294 km), Jagdalpur (46 km)
BATTISA TEMPLE, BARSUR (DISTRICT DANTEWADA)
The Battisa Temple is located in Barsur, a historical site 18 km from Geedam on the Jagdalpur to Bhopalpatnam road, and 100 km from Jagdalpur. The temple is known for its large mandap supported by thirty-two pillars, which connects two temples. In the sanctum sanctorum, a two-story square temple made of black stone houses a Shivalinga placed on an oiled water pot, with a beautifully crafted Nandi statue facing the Shivalinga. The temple faces east and was built in the 11th to 12th century AD during the reign of the Chhindak Naga dynasty. This temple is a fine example of paired temples, a design seen in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Nearby, other notable monuments like the Mama Bhanja Temple, Ganesh Temple, and Chandraditya Temple are also protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 323 km), Jagdalpur (100 km)
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (approximately 334 km), Jagdalpur (94 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 334 km), Jagdalpur (93 km)
LAXMANESHWAR TEMPLE
The Laxmaneshwar Shiva Temple is located in the village of Kharod, approximately 62 km from Bilaspur, within the Janjgir-Champa district on the Bilaspur-Shivrinarayan road. This east-facing temple is divided into three main sections: Garbhagriha, Antaral, and Mandap. While the Garbhagriha is the original structure, the Antaral and Mandap were reconstructed during the Maratha period, though they still retain some elements of the original design. The temple was initially built during the reign of the Somvanshi kings of South Kosal. An inscription found on the temple wall mentions the name “Ishandev,” further linking the temple to its historical significance. The entrance gate branches and the pillars of the Mandap are ornately decorated, featuring detailed carvings depicting various scenes from the Ramayana. Among the most notable scenes are the dramatic portrayals of Sita and Hanuman in Ashok Vatika and the Bali Vadh scene, both of which are skillfully executed and carry significant narrative weight. These intricately carved stories are not only religiously important but also showcase the artistic craftsmanship of the era.
How to Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (approximately 137 km), Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport, Bilaspur (66 km)
By Train: The closest railway stations are at Raipur (approximately 132 km), Janjgir (43 km)
By Road: Raipur (approximately 132 km)
LIST OF OTHER TEMPLES AND STATE PROTECTED MONUMENTS IN CHHATTISGARH
| No | State Protected Monuments | Place | District |
| 1 | Mavli Devi Temple | Tarpongi | Baloda Bastar Bhatapara |
| 2 | Ancient Brick Temple | Navagaon | Raipur |
| 3 | Ancient Shiva Temple | Damru | Baloda Bastar Bhatapara |
| 4 | Shiv Temple | Giraud | Raipur |
| 5 | Karneshwar Mahadev Temple Group | Sihawa | Dhamtari |
| 6 | Shiv Temple, Ghatiari | Gandai | Rajnandgaon |
| 7 | Nagdev Temple | Nagpura | Durg |
| 8 | Mata Bahadur Kalarin Mandir | Chirchari | Balod |
| 9 | Vishnu Temple | Banbarad | Durg |
| 10 | Mahapashaniya Smarak | Karkabhat | Balod (Remove) |
| 11 | Mahapashaniya Smarak | Karhibhadar | Balod |
| 12 | Mahapashaniya Smarak | Dhanora | Balod |
| 13 | Mahapashaniya Smarak | Kuliya | Balod |
| 14 | Mahapashaniya Smarak | Mujgahan | Balod |
| 15 | Ghunghusa Raja Temple | Deokar | Bemetra |
| 16 | Marhiyapat Ruined Temple | Dondilohara | Balod |
| 17 | Ancient temple | Dondilohara | Balod |
| 18 | Kukurdev Temple | Khapri | Balod |
| 19 | Shiv Temple | Jagannathpur | Balod |
| 20 | Mahamaya Temple | Ratanpur | Bilaspur |
| 21 | Ancient Shiva Temple | Kirari Godhi | Bilaspur |
| 22 | Dhumnath Temple | Sargaon | Mugeli |
| 23 | Shiv Temple | Ganiyari | Bilaspur |
| 24 | Three Mazars of Kabirpanthi Satguru | Kudurmal | Korba |
| 25 | Shiva Temple | Devtikara | Surguja |
| 26 | Deur Temple | Maharanipur | Surguja |
| 27 | Ruined Temple near Rani Talab | Deepadih | Surguja |
| 28 | Devi Ka Mandir (Chhrrika Deur) | Devtikara | Surguja |
| 29 | Temple Group of Satmahala | Kalcha Bhadwahi | Surguja |
| 30 | Shiv Temple | Belsar-Harratola | Surguja |
| 31 | Rock Shelters | Singhapur | Surguja |
| 32 | Shiva Temple, Harratoli | Belsar | Balrampur |
| 33 | Nishan Pakhna Group of Temples | Maheshpur | Surguja |
| 34 | Adinath Tila | Maheshpur | Surguja |
| 35 | Shiv Temple Complex and Thakurbari | Maheshpur | Surguja |
| 36 | Shiv Temple Complex Kuriya Jhorki | Maheshpur | Surguja |
| 37 | Old fort | Tarighat | Durg |
This article is published in collaboration with Chhattisgarh Tourism Board
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