Top Pilgrimage Sites In Chhattisgarh

The history of land speaks volumes of how its structures and people have come to be. One such land is Chattisgarh, a host to some intricately carved temples to ones that have emerged with modernity. Among some of the best tourist places in India are these temple sites that are a must-visit for anyone looking to explore this land.

Ways To Reach Via Air, Train, Bus

Reaching the principal city of Raipur from different parts of the world is made not only simple by Cleartrip but also affordable in all senses. There are multiple ways to reach Raipur, which can become the centre of various tourist destinations.

Raipur by Air: With connections to major cities of India, Raipur is home to a well-known Domestic and International Airport with connecting flights all across India and some parts of the world.

Raipur by Train: The city has a vast network of railways that connects to all the major cities of India– Bilaspur Express, Bilaspur Rajdhani, etc.

Raipur by Road: With the vast network of roads that runs across the whole state, it becomes an easy feat to reach Raipur by road.

1. Pragya Giri Temple

Present in the Rajnandgaon district, a Buddha statue stands at 300m on top of a hill. After climbing 225 steps, you also discover inscriptions on the rocks. Situated in the area of Dongargarh, it is one of the nearest tourist places located at a distance of 107 km from Raipur, with the nearest airport at Raipur.

Entry Fees: Free

Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

2. Bhoramdeo Temple

A temple complex among the various tourist places, hosting structures dating back to 1349, the Bhoramceo temple complex is Lord Shiva’s shrine. The site features erotic sculptures that resemble the Khajuraho Temple and the Konark Sun Temple, naming it “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh”.

Situated in the North-west town of Kawardha, it is in the middle of thick forests, providing the visitors with a scenic view. The nearest airport is 134km away in Raipur, with well-connected roads laid out further to reach the site.

Entry Fees: Free

Timings: 5 AM – 7 PM

Also, check out the nearest hotels near Raipur Airports here!

3. Gandheshwar Temple

An ancient temple built up from the ruins of various ancient Viharas and Temples, the Gandheshwar temple stands to host Lord Shiva as its prime deity. The temples present a series of sculptures that represent the Shiva Leela. The nearest airport is at a distance of 209km at the Nanded Airport, beyond which the rail services can help you reach this ancient destination.

Entry Fees: Free

Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM

4. Girodhpuri

A pilgrimage site wrapped in the modernity of today, the Girodhpuri Dham has become one of the most famous religious spots and tourist places in Chhattisgarh. Being the birthplace of Satnami Panth, this site hosts spaces he frequented during his time. It is in the merging of Mahanadi and Jonk rivers at 80km from Bilaspur. The nearest airport is the Raipur airport, from where it becomes easy to reach Girodhpuri Dham.

Entry Fees: Free

Timings: Open 24hrs

5. Pataleswar Kedar Temple

This temple dates back to the 11th century and holds importance to the Hindus residing in Bilaspur. The detailing in the carvings and the sculptures become an avid attraction to the tourists who visit it every day.

With the main deity as Lord Shiva, this temple holds a Gomukhi Shivalinga that takes centre stage. The Raipur airport becomes the nearest airport, a 3-hour drive from Bilaspur.

Entry Fees: Free

Timings: 8 AM – 5:30 PM

6. Swastik Vihar

Situated in Anand Prabhu Kudi Vihar, it was recently discovered and excavated, attracting crowds from all parts of the world. It has been the meditating and study grounds for Buddh bhikshus. It is not a difficult feat to reach this site with well-connected roads and the nearest airport in Raipur.

Entry Fees: Free

7. Patala Bhairavi Temple

As one of the famous tourist places and temples in Rajnandgaon, this site takes its name literally by taking you on a three-levelled journey inside. With a massive Shiv linga on top and a Nandi facing it, the structure splits into three levels holding Lord Shiva, Navadurga and Patal Bhairavi. Only 90 km from the Raipur international airport, this site is easily accessible by road.

Entry Fees: Free

Timings: 5 AM – 7 PM

8. Jatmai Mata Mandir

Spanning a distance of 80km from Raipur, this temple is one with nature that holds Goddess Durga as its primary deity. According to local legends, this is where goddess Durga’s feet fell. Situated a mere 80km from Raipur, it is one of the most nature-covered tourist places on the list; it is a must-visit site.

Entry Fees: Free

Timings: 5 AM – 7 PM

9. Maa Bambleshwari Temple

With a scenic location on the hilltop, it is split into the Badi Bambleshwari Temple on top and Choti Bambleshwari Temple on the bottom. It is one of the most visited temples and tourist places in Chhattisgarh, especially during Navratri. Being 107 km from Raipur, the roads lay connected to make your journey to the site accessible.

Entry Fees: Free

Timings: 6 AM – 9:30 PM

5 Tips To Make Hotel Booking when in Chhattisgarh

Make it easier to get the accommodation of your choice with the following tips to take note of for your next journey out.

  1. Book your accommodation beforehand and not the day before.
  2. Make your commute easy and affordable by choosing accommodation closer to the tourist sites.
  3. Go through reviews and compare the prices for the best. Use deals such as Cleartrip’s offers on hotels to book accommodations.
  4. Make sure the amenities listed satisfy your accommodation needs.
  5. An accommodation that provides breakfasts or food, in general, should be preferred over others.

Conclusion

With an urge to explore the more spiritual side of our culture, visiting these historical and religious sites can uniquely impact you. Cleartrip helps you make this further easier by offering you discounts on flights and hotel bookings.

Your travels can be pre-curated and laid out for your convenience to visit the best tourist places in India through Cleartrip blogs. So pack your bags and take your cameras to experience one of the best tourist places in India.

FAQ’s

What do I bring to the journey to these religious sites?

You can carry the necessary items such as water, an umbrella etc. As these sites are tourist sites as well, photography might be allowed. Make sure to follow their specific rules as well.

Are there any special rules to be followed while entering the premises?

Depending on the temple site you visit, the rules and regulations might differ. So once you reach the site, make sure to take note of the same and proceed.

Is there any middle ground from which commute would be easier to these places?

If you map out these places, they form a complete circle. Raipur airport is a central point where most pilgrimage spots are easily accessible.

Will it be hard to climb the temples situated on top of the hill?

Getting to these higher ground temples is through roads. Thus, doable by anyone. There might be a short distance to walk occasionally.

What will the weather be like at these sites?

It will depend on when you decide to visit the temples. Chhattisgarh experiences the hottest summers from April to June and is relatively cold from November to January.

Pilgrimage places | travel | Travel Tips