Experiences

Best Temples in Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh’s is home to several ancient temples that are gateways into a world where devotion, history, and tribal culture come together. Some of the most famous temples in Chhattisgarh are Laxman Temple of Sirpur, Danteshwari Temple, Mahamaya Temple, and Rajiv Lochan Temple, which attract devotees throughout the year. Many temples in the state are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Lord Rama, and Goddess Devi, and each shrine carries its own legends, rituals, and architectural influences. Together, these temples highlight Chhattisgarh’s role as an important centre of faith and pilgrimage in central India.

Visiting these temples during significant festivals like the Mahashivratri, Navratri, and Ram Navami is extremely fun as there are ongoing rituals and celebrations. The ancient temples like the Bhoramdeo Temple have such beautiful, intricate carvings that it is compared to Khajuraho, and the Danteshwari Temple holds immense importance in Shakti worship. These shrines are not only examples of places of devotion but also important landmarks that narrate the state’s spiritual and historical journey.

From riverbank temples to hilltop shrines, every sacred place to visit in Chhattisgarh adds to the spiritual identity of this place. To explore its heritage in detail, here is a guide to some of the most popular temples in Chhattisgarh that you should not miss.

Best Temples in Chhattisgarh

01

Danteshwari Temple, Dantewada

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Danteshwari Temple is located in the center of Dantewada and is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas. The current structure dates back to medieval times, while the worship tradition at the site is much older. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, regarded as the protective Shakti of the state and worshipped by both tribal and nontribal communities. Large crowds gather during Navratri and Dussehra for ritual processions and special bhog offerings, organized by the temple trust and local committees.

Visitors often combine a trip to the temple with nearby Bastar attractions, including Jagdalpur, waterfalls, and tribal craft markets. The temple holds cultural significance as it blends tribal customs with mainstream Shakti rituals, making it a famous temple in Chhattisgarh. For planning purposes, darshan timings and festival schedules are published by the temple authorities.

Location: Ward No. 5, Danteshwari Ward, Jai Stambh Chowk, Dantewada, Chhattisgarh 494449, India.

Opening Times & Days: Daily 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM (timings may vary slightly by season/festivals).

Best Time to Visit: October–March for pleasant weather and festival immersion.

Historical/Cultural Significance:

Believed to be one of the 52 Shakti Peethas where the tooth (dant) of Goddess Sati fell. It is the center of Shakti worship in southern Chhattisgarh.
Blend of tribal and classical Hindu traditions, historically linked to Bastar’s rulers and tribal communities.

02

Maa Bamleshwari Devi Temple, Dongargarh

Bambleshwari Temple sits atop a hill near Dongargarh and can be reached by climbing a long stairway or driving to the base and walking up a series of steps. The temple is dedicated to Maa Bambleshwari, a form of Goddess Parvati, and draws thousands of devotees during Navratri and Ram Navami. Because of its spiritual and cultural importance, the temple frequently appears on regional pilgrimage maps and is widely listed in the Chhattisgarh temple list. Local legends speak of several miracles associated with the shrine.

There are two sanctuaries: the hilltop Badi Bambleshwari and the smaller Chhoti Bambleshwari at ground level. During major festivals, the hill is illuminated, volunteers manage queues, and special transport services operate from Raipur and nearby towns. Visitors also enjoy panoramic views at sunrise and sunset, and nearby Kawardha and Dongargarh markets offer local sweets and ritual items. State and local authorities arrange temporary pilgrimage services and buses during peak festival days as well.

Location: Chhirpani, Dongargarh, Chhattisgarh 491445, India.

Opening Times & Days: Daily hilltop shrine opens roughly around 5:00 AM–12:00 PM & 4:00 PM–9:00 PM. During Navratri it is open 24 hrs.

Ropeway services typically 7:00 AM–1:00 PM & 3:00 PM–7:00 PM.

Best Time to Visit: Navratri (Sept–Oct) for peak festivities, or winter months (Oct–Feb) for comfortable climate.

Historical/Cultural Significance:

Ancient hill temple believed to be over 2,000 years old with strong regional devotional tradition.
Sacred to Goddess Bamleshwari (form of Parvati) and tied deeply to local folklore and royal patronage.

03

Bhoramdeo Temple

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Bhoramdeo Temple is a historic stone complex often called the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh” because of its intricate carvings, which include figurative panels and scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva and features multiple shrines along with a stepped tank. Archaeologists date parts of the complex to the 7th–11th centuries, with later additions enhancing its architecture. The carvings depict mythological stories as well as everyday life, attracting both pilgrims and researchers.

Maha Shivratri is the main festival celebrated here, with night vigils and lamps illuminating the stone surfaces. Visitors can also explore the nearby Kawardha town, enjoy heritage walks, and visit the Kawardha Palace for a glimpse into local history. Guided tours and conservation efforts help explain the temple’s architectural and sculptural significance. Due to its cultural and religious importance, this temple is widely recognised and regarded as a famous temple in Chhattisgarh.

Location: Kawardha (Kabirdham), Chhattisgarh 491995, India.

Opening Times & Days: Daily visiting hours are around ~5:00 AM–7:00 PM (may vary seasonally).

Best Time to Visit: October–March for cooler weather and heritage exploration.

Historical/Cultural Significance:

Historic temple complex called the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh” due to finely carved stone sculptures.
Dates back to early medieval period with multiple shrines and mythological carvings.

04

Rajiv Lochan Temple, Rajim

Rajiv Lochan Temple is located in Rajim, at the confluence of three rivers, and is one of Chhattisgarh’s important Vishnu shrines. Many travelers include Rajim in their regional pilgrimage itinerary, making it a prominent entry in the list of temples in Chhattisgarh. The current stone structure dates back to medieval times, and inscriptions link it to local dynasties. The sanctum houses a form of Vishnu, often identified as Rajiv Lochan. Rajim hosts a large annual fair during Magha Purnima, with ritual bathing at the sangam and special pujas continuing through Mahashivratri.

Architecturally, the temple features north Indian design elements and intricately carved doorframes. It is part of a cluster of sacred sites in Rajim, including Kuleshwar and other smaller temples, creating a compact pilgrimage circuit. Local guides organize darshan timings and riverside aarti for early morning visits.

Location: Rajim, Gariaband District, Chhattisgarh 493885, India.

Opening Times & Days: Daily open from 5:00 AM–7:00 PM (may vary on festivals).

Best Time to Visit: October–March; also during Rajim Kumbh Mela period (~mid-Feb to early March).

Historical/Cultural Significance:

Ancient temple (8th century) dedicated to Lord Vishnu with richly carved architecture.
Inscriptions link to early dynasties; part of Rajim’s religious heritage.

05

Mahamaya Devi Temple, Ratanpur

Mahamaya Devi Temple in Ratanpur is dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya, known regionally as Kosaleswari. The medieval town of Ratanpur served as a dynastic seat, and the temple became the main Shakti shrine for rulers and commoners alike. Navratri draws concentrated pilgrim traffic with continuous bhajans, special offerings, and a large local fair. The shrine’s ritual calendar and oral histories connect the deity to the older Dakshina Kosala polity, so the temple carries both political and devotional significance.

Nearby Ratanpur fort, step wells, and smaller shrines allow visitors to trace the town’s historic plan. Local temple committees publish darshan timings and manage festival logistics to handle visitor numbers. The site combines historical interest and living ritual, which makes it a frequently referenced famous temple in Chhattisgarh.

Location: Ratanpur, Chhattisgarh 495442, India.

Opening Times & Days: Daily general darshan takes place roughly between 5:00 AM–7:00 PM with extended hours during festivals.

Best Time to Visit: Navratri for deep devotional atmosphere; winter months comfortable for travel.

Historical/Cultural Significance:

An important Shakti temple historically central to ancient local kingdoms.
Known for Akhand Navratri Jyoti Kalash and strong devotional participation.

06

Lakshmana (Laxman) Temple, Sirpur

The Laxman Temple at Sirpur is a rare and well-preserved early brick temple dated to the 7th century; it is one of the best surviving examples of early medieval brick architecture in central India. Excavations at Sirpur have revealed a large complex of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments, and the Laxman Temple shows carved door frames with depictions of Vishnu and related iconography.

The temple originally served as a thriving urban and religious centre under early regional dynasties, and archaeological work since the 19th century has documented inscriptions and sculptural panels. Sirpur is now an archaeological park with a visitor centre and interpretive displays. The nearby Buddhist monasteries and excavated stupas offer context for the temple’s religious landscape. Because of its age, artistic value, and easy accessibility from Raipur, the site is regularly listed on the Chhattisgarh temple list.

Location: Champaran village, Raipur district, Chhattisgarh, 493101, India

Opening Times & Days: No officially notified fixed darshan timings; temple access is managed locally and remains open daily.

Best Time to Visit: October to March; Vaishakh month for religious observances

Historical / Cultural Significance:

Birthplace of Vallabhacharya, founder of the Pushtimarg Vaishnava tradition
Important pilgrimage site for Krishna devotees in central India

07

Devrani-Jethani Temple Complex, Tala

The Devrani-Jethani Temple complex in Bilaspur consists of two adjacent temples, known locally by these names. Excavations date the site to the 6th century, making it an important example of early Dakshina Kosala architecture. The complex is highly valued for its historical and academic significance, and it frequently appears among popular temples in Chhattisgarh. One temple houses a seated Rudra Shiva statue uncovered during archaeological digs, and both structures feature carved doorways and relief panels that display early iconography.

The Archaeological Survey of India protects the site, with informative signage explaining the excavation findings and the temple’s layered history of worship. Local festivals mainly revolve around temple anniversaries and periodic regional fairs in Bilaspur. Scholars and students often visit to study the early architectural and sculptural forms.

Location: Nagpura village, Durg district, Chhattisgarh, 491001, India

Opening Times & Days: Open daily, darshan is observed from morning to evening as per temple trust schedule.

Best Time to Visit: October to March, since these months are major periods for spiritual observance for Jains

Historical / Cultural Significance:

Prominent Jain pilgrimage centre established in the late 20th century
Dedicated to Parshvanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankara

08

Champaran (Champaranya) Temple, Raipur

Champaran, also called Champaranya, is best known as the birthplace of the Vaishnava acharya Vallabhacharya and hosts temples and baithaks (seats) connected with his life and teachings. The site sits on the Mahanadi’s banks and features small but important shrines dedicated to the saint and to Champakeshwara Mahadeva. Pilgrims gather for Mahaprabhuji’s prakatya utsav in Vaisakh and for an annual fair in Magh, when devotional singing and community offerings mark the observance.

Local facilities have developed modest pilgrim amenities, and the village links easily to Raipur by road, making Champaran a frequent half-day visit from the capital. For pilgrims tracing Pushtimarg history or regional devotional traditions, Champaran is a core stop on any list of pilgrimage sites, and it is commonly cited within the list of temples in Chhattisgarh.

Location: Kudargarh, Surajpur district, Chhattisgarh, 497333, India

Opening Times & Days: Open daily from 7 Am to 7:30 PM with extended darshan hours during Navratri.

Best Time to Visit: Winter months of October- March for easier access

Historical / Cultural Significance:

Ancient hilltop Shakti shrine revered in regional folk traditions
Considered a protective deity by surrounding communities

09

Shri Uwassaggaharam Parshwa Teerth, Nagpura

Shri Uwassaggaharam Parshwa Teerth in Nagpura is a modern marble Jain temple located near the Sheonath riverbank. Dedicated to Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankar, the temple was established in the 1990s. The complex includes the main marble temple, guest houses, a garden, and wellness facilities. The annual Nagpura Mahotsav attracts Jain communities from across the region, with special rituals, abhisheks, and community meals on major Jain occasions.

This famous temple in Chhattisgarh also hosts spiritual retreats and yoga programs. Managed by a dedicated trust, the temple provides clear visitor schedules and has become an important center for both pilgrimage and the study of Jain art.

Location: Near Gariaband town, Gariaband district, Chhattisgarh, 493889, India

Opening Times & Days: Open daily till 9 PM. During the summer season, the afternoon closure ranges from 12-4 PM.

Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon and winter months of September to March

Historical / Cultural Significance:

Shakti shrine associated with forest worship traditions
Sacred stream near the temple used during ritual observances

10

Maa Kudargarh Devi Temple, Kudargarh

Kudargarh Temple is a hilltop shrine dedicated to Maa Kudargarhi, also known as Bagheshwari Devi. This shrine is commonly featured in Chhattisgarh temple lists and highlights the presence of hilltop goddess temples across the region.It stands above the surrounding plains, offering a wide, commanding view. The temple attracts many pilgrims during Chaitra Navratri, and devotees have to climb to the summit for darshan and offerings. Local legends say the shrine was established by early regional rulers, and the goddess is believed to protect the community.

The climb to the temple is manageable, and nearby villages offer basic guest facilities and prasad. Visiting during Navratri provides a lively festival experience, while quieter months allow visitors to appreciate the carved stone icons and temple gates in peace.

Location: Raipur city, Raipur district, Chhattisgarh, 492001, India

Opening Times & Days: Open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM. Morning and evening aarti are conducted at fixed times.

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year, ideally October to March for pleasant weather.

Historical / Cultural Significance:

Linked to Swami Balabhadradas and Vaishnava monastic traditions
Known for Ramayana murals and charitable religious institutions

11

Jatmai Mata Temple, Gariaband

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Jatmai Mata Temple is situated amid forested slopes in the Gariaband district, and it is known for the stream and falls that run beside the shrine, creating a distinctive setting for worship. The shrine is dedicated to the Mother Goddess and attracts devotees during the Navratri season when ritual lamps, bhog, and community fairs are organised. The adjoining Ghatarani waterfalls and Jharjhara scenic spots make the visit suitable for combined pilgrimage and nature outings. For its regional importance and accessible natural setting,

Jatmai is widely referred to as a famous temple in Chhattisgarh. Local guides describe the tradition where the temple’s water features are regarded as sacred and used in ritual bathing on festival days. The site is popular with family groups and weekend visitors from Raipur and Bhilai, so advance planning helps during peak weekends.

Location: Raipur city, Raipur district, Chhattisgarh, 492001, India

Opening Times & Days: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: July–August (Sawan) and February–March (Mahashivratri)

Historical / Cultural Significance:

One of Raipur’s oldest Shiva temples located along the Kharun riverbank
Long-standing centre for Shaivite worship and ritual bathing traditions

12

Dudhadhari Math, Raipur

Dudhadhari Math is a well-known religious institution in Raipur. The temple complex and monastic lineage are linked to Swami Balabhadradas, who practiced milk-based austerities, giving the math its name. The site hosts Ram-related rituals, wall carvings showing scenes from the Ramayana, and regular community festivals. Historically, it received royal support and continues to run charitable activities and ritual programs. The buildings include an older core with later additions for devotees and schools.

Conveniently located in the city, the math is part of popular pilgrimage circuits and cultural walking tours, making it easy for visitors to include in their Raipur travel plans. The shrine attracts daily visitors, and it is included in the list of temples in Chhattisgarh.

Location: Guchhapali village, Mahasamund district, Chhattisgarh, 493449, India

Opening Times & Days: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant climate; March–April for Chaitra Navratri

Historical / Cultural Significance:

Hilltop Shakti shrine deeply connected with regional folk belief systems
Known for local legends tied to forest ecology and wildlife reverence

13

Hatkeshwar Temple

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Hatkeshwar Nath sits on the banks of the Kharun River and is among Raipur’s older Shiva shrines, historically built in local phases with major renovation noted around the 15th century. The temple occupies a ghat location used for ritual bathing and observances tied to Sawan and Shivratri. The site is a focal point for the Kanwar Yatra and for Rudrabhishek ceremonies attended by a large number of devotees during the monsoon and early autumn months.

Given its long-standing presence in city life and festival centrality, Hatkeshwar is undoubtedly one of the most famous temples in Chhattisgarh. Architecturally, the temple combines plain masonry with carved icon panels and a functional ghat area for devotees. Local religious committees coordinate aarti schedules and special transport during peak festivals.

Location: Adbhar town, Janjgir–Champa district, Chhattisgarh, 495695, India

Opening Times & Days: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather. Navratri months (March–April and September–October)

Historical / Cultural Significance:

Ancient Shakti shrine centred on an eight-armed goddess idol
Important regional worship site with references in local inscriptions and folklore

14

Chandi Mata (Chandimata) Temple, Guchhapali

Chandi Mata Temple in the Guchhapali area is dedicated to the Goddess Chandi and is notable for festival fairs during Navratri and for an unusual local fauna story: sloth bears frequently visit the surrounding hill scrub and are locally treated with respect, giving the site an added layer of folk legend. This popular temple in Chhattisgarh sits on a hill near Bagbahara and draws regional pilgrims for ritual offerings and large seasonal melas; caretakers arrange crowd control and puja schedules during Chaitra Navratri. The location pairs well with short nature treks and visiting nearby heritage sites and authorities ensure caution around wildlife while travellers visit this spiritual place.

Location: Tala village, Bilaspur district, Chhattisgarh, 495224, India

Opening Times & Days: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Historical / Cultural Significance:

Early medieval twin-temple complex dating back to the 6th–7th century
Important archaeological site representing early Dakshina Kosala temple architecture

15

Ashtabhuji Temple, Adbhar

Ashtabhuji Temple at Adbhar is an old Shakti shrine known for its large eight-armed goddess image; local tradition and inscriptions suggest the temple has been a regional pilgrimage point for centuries. The structure and legends link the goddess to protective powers and community rites; devotees gather in numbers during Navratri and special local festivals where folk music and offerings form part of the observance. Archaeological references record the site’s antiquity, and ASI listings note conservation interest where required.

Visitors combine the temple stop with nearby historical towns and pilgrimage circuits in the Janjgir-Champa district. Because of its long ritual history and continuing festival life, Ashtabhuji is counted among and it is listed among the popular temples in Chhattisgarh.

Location: Sirpur village, Mahasamund district, Chhattisgarh, 493555, India

Opening Times & Days: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March for comfortable tours

Historical / Cultural Significance:

One of the finest surviving early brick temples in India, dating to the 7th century
Central monument within the larger Sirpur archaeological and religious landscape

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Durbar (Central) Square

Want to travel to an era bygone? Then Durbar Square is the place to be! The Durbar Square Central is a popular place among the tourists. It is well known for the ancient Royal Palace, which faces next to the square. Highlights:The concentrated mass of temples in this region is perhaps one of the biggest highlights of this place. It is here that you will find a stunning display of Newari architecture. The temple construction here happened from 14thto 18thcenturies, especially during the reign of King Siddhinarsingh Malla. The Durbar Central Square is one of the perfect places where you can wander around for hours, looking at magnificent buildings.Location: The Durbar Square is located in Patan Nepal.Timings: Entry is from 7 am to 7 pm. Price: For foreign travelers, the prices are from USD 3-8.