5 Popular Temples to Visit in Chhattisgarh (2024)
While there are many Indian states popular among travellers, but it is the Indian state of Chhattisgarh which is considered as one underrated gem of a place. Getting its name from the 36 ancient forts that are located within its premises, Chhattisgarh is undeniably one of the fastest developing states of India. Serving as a home to a plethora of historic forts, a vast range of wildlife species, ancient temples and many other interesting attractions, Chhattisgarh proves to be a complete fun package for any kind of traveller. Situated right in the heart of the country, the Indian state of Chhattisgarh boasts of a rich cultural heritage and is truly blessed in terms of phenomenal natural diversity as well as beauty. While the state of Chhattisgarh is brimming with hill plateaus, scenic waterfalls, ancient caves, rare wildlife, Buddhist sites, untouched natural beauty, the attraction which you can’t afford to miss if you are a religious person is the range of exquisitely carved historic temples. If you are not sure about where to begin your temple tour in Chhattisgarh, then don’t worry because we have already shortlisted some of the best temples to visit in Chhattisgarh for you. Continue reading to know more!
5 Popular Temples to Visit in Chhattisgarh
Below are 5 Temples in Chhattisgarh:
1. MaaBamleshwari Devi Temple, Dongargarh
Located in the Rajnandgaon district of the state of Chhattisgarh, MaaBamleshwari temple is placed on top of a hill at an altitude of about 1600 feet. Also known by the name of BadiBamleshwari Temple, this temple is considered as one of the most popular temples to visit in Chhattisgarh. You will be pleased to know that this was just the main temple and it also has another temple which is known as ChhottiBambleshwari Temple and is situated at the ground level. The ChhottiBambleshwari Temple is located at a distance of about 1.5 km from the huge complex of the main MaaBambleshwari Devi Temple in Chhattisgarh. There is immense love and several beliefs associated with both of these shrines in the hearts of the locals as well as travellers. Hence, it is not much surprising to know that both of these shrines are visited by thousands and even lacs of people from all over the country throughout the year.
- Location: Chhirpani, Dongargarh, Rajnandgaon district, Chhattisgarh 491445
- Opening Hours: The temples are open for public visitors from 6 AM till 9.30 PM on all days of the week.
- Best time to visit: Despite welcoming devotees throughout the year, it is during the occasion of festivals such as Ram Navmi and Dussehra that the crowd here is truly exceptional. For witnessing these shrines at the peak of their beauty, you can also visit the temple during festivals of Jyoti Kalash and Navratris as the temple is beautifully lighted on these occasions.
2. Mahamaya Temple, Bilaspur:
Tracing its origins from long back in history to about the 12th century, this temple is one of the most historic temples in Chhattisgarh. It is said that the Mahamaya Temple was built by the Kalachari King Ratnadeva during his reign in the 12th century. Popular for sporting a stunning Nagara style of architecture, this temple is immensely well–known and reputed all over the country. Dedicated to the dual Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Lakshmi, this temple is considered as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas that are located throughout the country. Apart from its religious and historic significance, the temple is also visited by many travellers for its impressive and vivid architecture. Located at Ratanpur in the Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh, the temple is nestled along the popular Bilaspur Ambikapur state highway. Owing to its prime location, the temple is pretty easy to reach as well. Another pleasing thing to know about this temple is that it houses several other temples within its complex premises as well, out of which Kantideval Temple belonging to the early 11th century is immensely popular among devotees. Image Source
- Location: Ratanpur, Bilaspur district, Chhattisgarh 495442
- Opening Hours: The temple is open for darshan on all days of the week from 6 AM till 8.30 PM except at the time of Bhog or lunch break. The entry in temple is restricted from 12 PM till 12.30 PM during the Bhog time.
- Best time to visit: Surrounded by lush green hills and over 150 ponds, though one can visit this temple anytime but the best time to visit it will be during the festival of Navratris. The Goddess Mahamayadevi is beautifully dressed in the course of this festival.
3. Chandrahasini Devi temple, Janjgir:
If you are a true devotee of the devi, then your visit to the state of Chhattisgarhis incomplete without paying your respects at this remarkable temple. Located right on the banks of the serene river Mahanadi, Chandrahasinidevi temple is another spectacular temple to visit in Chhattisgarh. Dedicated to the Goddess Devi MaaChandrahasini, this temple not only serves as a popular tourist attraction for the travelling exploring the places near Rajgarh area but rather the entire state. Since the temple is located on the shore of the river, one is bound to witness some beautiful views from the temple complex. Apart from the religious significance, the temple of Chhattisgarhalso garners its immense popularity from its brilliant views and architecture. Situated in the Janjgir district of Chhattisgarh, this temple offers a peaceful and soothing aura. A plenty of daily rituals and poojas are also organised in the temple frequently.
- Location: Janjgir, Rajgarh district, Chhattisgarh 495668
- Opening Hours: The temple is open for visitors from 4 AM till 9 PM on all days of the week except on Sunday when the entry is closed.
- Best time to visit: While daily rituals are conducted in the temple, the best time to visit the temple will be during the days of the festival of Navratri. During this festival, some special pujas are done in the temple which attracts a huge crowd of devotees from all over the country.
4. BhoramdeoTemple:
Situated amidst the mountain ranges, the reason why Bhoramdeo temple is listed as one of the most popular temples to visit in Chhattisgarh is its striking resemblance to the incredible Sun temple of Konark. In fact, it is believed that this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a prime Hindu God was constructed long back in history in between the 7th and 12th century. It is owing to its similarity to the renowned Khajuraho temple of Madhya Pradesh, that the Bhoramdeo temple is even referred to as the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh. The huge temple complex of the Bhoramdeo temple further comprises of four more ancient temples of the region which are Madwa Mahal, Cherki Mahal, Istaliq Temple and the temple itself. Built in stone, the Bhoramdeo temple in Chhattisgarhis nothing short of an architectural marvel. Sporting an impressive Nagar style of architecture, the intricate carving and images on the temple walls are truly worth all the appreciation and admiration.
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- Location: Karwardha district, Chhattisgarh 491995
- Opening hours: The temple is open for visitors from 5 AM till 12 PM and then it closes for a while to open again from 4 PM till 9 PM. Also, the temple is open for darshan on all days of the week.
- Best time to visit: While one can visit this incredible anytime throughout the year but for the best experience, it is suggested to visit the temple in the winter season from October till February. The weather is pretty pleasant during these months.
5. Danteshwari Temple, Dantewada:
Boasting of being one of the holy 52 Shakti peetha shrines located across the country, this temple is believed to be about 600 years old. Dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, it is said that the temple was constructed somewhere in the middle of the 14th century by the Chalukyas of South and remains a popular temple of Chhattisgarh till date.
Located in the Dantewada town, it is believed that the presiding deity of the temple- Goddess Danteshwari was the family goddess of Bastar state. There are many interesting mythological legends associated with the temple as well. Apart from its religious significance, this temple is nothing short of a work of architectural brilliance. The black stone idol and the mighty Garuda pillar are some of the architectural highlights of the temple. The huge temple complex is further divided into four sections- GarbhaGriha, Maha mandap, Sabha mandap and Mukhya Mandap.
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- Location: Dantewada, Chhattisgarh 494449
- Opening Hours: The temple is open for visitors from 6 AM till 10 PM on all days of the week.
- Best time to visit: Though the temple is open for devotees throughout the year but it is during the during the festival of Dussehra, Navratris and Jyoti kalash which serves as the best time to visit. The temple is decorated beautifully during these occasions.
No matter whether you are looking for natural beauty, wildlife species, photographic opportunities, temple tour, historic knowledge or just relaxing, Chhattisgarh has something or the other for every kind of traveller.
FAQ’s
Q1. What Is The Best Time To Visit Chhattisgarh?
Ans. The best time to visit Chhattisgarh will be somewhere in between the winter months of October till February.
Q2. Is Chhattisgarh A Safe Place To Visit?
Ans. Yes, if you follow all the general safety rules, then this state is undoubtedly a safe and great place to visit.
Q3. How is the Temperature of Chhattisgarh?
Ans. The Indian state of Chhattisgarh experiences a moderate climate throughout the year.