Temples In India

Chhattisgarh Bhoramdeo Temple Kawardha

Bhoramdeo Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva situated at about 18 km from Kawardha town in Chhattisgarh. Set amidst Maikal mountains and lush green forests, this temple dating backing to 7th - 11th century holds a special attraction for historians and those with an interest in archeology.

Built by King Ramchandra of the Nag Dynasty, Bhoramdeo temple is built in the Nagar style and is carved on to the rocks. Bhoramdeo temple’s resemblance to the fabled  the Khajuraho temple of Madhya Pradesh, has earned this temple the name of the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh. Bhoramdeo temple stands out for its erotic and religious sculptures. The intricately carved shivalinga is another attraction of this temple. And many famous personalities like the British music film director has rated this temple as one of the most ornate temples in the world.

Temple Architecture

The main temple has two distinct parts made of red bricks and stone carved The main temple stands besides a lake. This temple that dates back to the medieval period is constructed on a five feet high platform, which comprises of a ‘Mandap’ with beautiful pillars and high roofs, Antral with half shelters and ‘Garbha Grih’ (The sanctum), which houses the Shiva Linga. There are many spectacular sculptures of Lord Vishnu, Ganesha and other deities apart from ornate designs of massive lions and elephants.

The principal deities of the temple include those of Uma-Maheswar, Krishna, Surya, Natraj, Narsimha, Vaman and Laxmi Narayan among others.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Bhoramdeo temple is in the month of March when Bhoramdeo Mahotsav is being held.

History

Around 2200 years back, Dongargarh known as Kamavati was ruled by Maharaja Kamsen. When the Queen gave birth to a son, the king considered it as a blessing of Lord Shiva and Parvati and he constructed the temple of Maa Bamleshwari at Dongargarh. Later on a war broke out between Raja Kamsen and Raja Vikramaditya on the issue of love between Maadhavnal and Kaamkandla, which ultimately led to the death of the couple.

Raja who was deeply depressed started worshiping Maa Bagulamukhi Devi. When the goddess appeared before him the king requested the goddess to bring back both Maadhavnal and Kaamkandala to life again and also asked Maa Bagulamukhi Devi to be at the temple always. Later on the name of the temple got changed into Maa Bamleshwari.

How to Reach

By Air

Raipur Airport, which is 135 KM away is the nearest airport.

By Rail

Raipur located on the Mumbai-Howrah main line is the nearest Railway station.

By Road

Regular Buses ply from the main cities like Raipur and Jabalpur to Kawardha. Taxis are convenient modes of transport to the temple site.

Accomodation

Though there are a few hotels and resorts near the temple, it is recommended to stay at Raipur where budget accommodation is available in plenty.

Other Attractions

Madwa Mahal and Cherki Mahal are the other two attractions that are not to be missed out. Well acclaimed for their beautiful and erotic sculptures, these temples attract not just the pilgrims but also archeologists and historians. The other activities nearby include village tours that offer a slice of rustic living experience or enjoy a tribal dance performance. The adventure lovers can indulge in trekking in the jungle of Maikal Hills or take a visit to the nearby Bhoramdeo Sanctuary.

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