Temples in Chhattisgarh

The state of Chhattisgarh is a region with tremendous historical, religious and archaeological importance. The state has witnessed rise and fall of many great dynasties and kingdoms. It has also seen numerous tribal rebellions and socio-religious reform movements. The presence of a number of archaeological sites, historical palaces, forts and some magnificent Chhattisgarh Temples consolidates the fact. Some of the most ancient and important temples of Chhattisgarh are:

The Mahamaya Temple is situated in Ambikapur near Bilaspur. It was built by King Ratansen of the Kalchurian Dynasty. The Laxman Temple in Sirpur was built during the seventh century and one of the best brick temples of the country. The Gandheswar Temple is also situated in this area. Surrounded by lush green forests and blue mountains, the Ghatadai Paharia Tripur Sundar Devi is dedicated to goddess Tripur Sundar. On the banks of the River Mahanadi, the Shivarinarayan Laxminarayan Temple stands pretty. It was built by the rulers of the Hayhay Dynasty. Turridhav Shiva Temple in Janjgir and Champa District is famous for its fair during the Mahashivaratri.

Jagannath Temple

The Jagannath temple at Raipur was established in 1860. It is located at Sadar Bazaar and is the first Jagannath temple of Chattisgarh.

The main festival celebrated here is the "Rathyatra". It is also known as Lord Jagannath's "Rathyatra". In this yatra Lord Balbhadra, Devi Subhadra and Lord Jagannath are taken in different chariots or raths, which are pulled by their disciples. And they are there for 15 days. On full moon day the Rathyatra goes back to the Jagannath temple.

There is a myth that those who see Lord Jagannath, Lord Balbhadra and Devi Subhadra during this Rathyatra achieve "Moksh" and people not only in Raipur but nearby places come and become a part of the Rathyatra.