Bhoramdeo Temple

Located in the Kabirdham district, approximately 130 km away from Raipur, the Bhoramdeo Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its architecture is noteworthy and due to its similarity to the temples of Madhya Pradesh, Bhoramdeo Temple is also called the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh. Its pinnacle is said to look like a blooming lotus flower, while its mandapa (pillared outdoor hall) is supported by 16 pillars, each of them having unique and intricate carvings. A highlight of the temple are the shivlings placed inside, along with the idols of Uma-Maheshwar, which are beautifully carved.

The temple sits atop a 5-ft-high platform or plinth which, on its exterior faces, has sculptures of Hindu deities. As one enters the sanctum sanctorum, not-to-be-missed are the exquisitely carved sculpted images of Lord Vishnu’s Dashavtaar or the 10 incarnations, along with images of Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva. The sanctum sanctorum’s roof is topped by a circular-shaped kalash (a holy metal pot). The entrance door has the images of Goddess Ganga and Goddess Yamuna on its doorpost.
Another temple worth a visit is the Madwa Mahal, around 1 km from Bhoramdeo Temple. It is set against a picturesque backdrop of the Maikal range of hills in Dakshin Kosala region. The name 'madwa mahal' in local dialect means marriage hall. Also known as Dullhadeo, the temple was constructed in 1349 by Nagavanshi dynasty ruler, Ramchandra Deo. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped in the form of a shivling, which is erected over 16 pillars.