About Bhoramdeo Temple
The Bhoramdeo Temple stands in a green valley of the Maikal hills, about 18 km from Kawardha, the headquarters of Kabirdham district in Chhattisgarh. It is a temple of Lord Shiva, set beside a small lake and surrounded by forested hills. Because of the delicacy and richness of its sculpture, it is popularly called the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh. It is the most celebrated old temple in the state and a favourite stop for pilgrims and heritage lovers.
The temple is generally dated to the 11th century and is linked to the Phani Nagavanshi rulers of the region; an inscription is often read as naming a king called Gopal Dev. The name Bhoramdeo is believed to come from a local deity of the Gond people, whose worship merged with that of Shiva. Over the following centuries the Nagavanshi rulers and their successors added other monuments nearby, such as the Madwa Mahal, a Shiva temple said to commemorate a royal marriage, and the brick Cherki Mahal.
The temple faces east and is built of stone in the Nagara style, with a curved shikhara rising over the sanctum. A mandapa with three entrances leads to the garbhagriha, where a Shiva linga is worshipped. The outer walls are covered in rows of carved figures: gods and goddesses, dancers, musicians, scenes of daily life and amorous couples, which recall the sculpture of Khajuraho. Images of Ganesha, Vishnu's avatars and other deities can also be seen. The calm lake and hills around it make the setting very peaceful.
Bhoramdeo Temple timings & aarti
Usually open from early morning (about 6:00 AM) to evening, around 7:00 PM. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning aarti | Around 6:00 AM (approx.) |
| Evening aarti | Around sunset (approx.) |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Bhoramdeo Temple
By air
Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur, is about 135 km away.
By train
Raipur Junction is about 130 km away; Bilaspur and Durg are other options.
By road
Kawardha is linked by road to Raipur, Bilaspur and Jabalpur. From Kawardha, take a taxi or local bus about 18 km to the temple.
Festivals at Bhoramdeo Temple
- Maha ShivaratriFeb/Mar
- Bhoramdeo MahotsavMar/Apr
- Shravan month (Kanwar Yatra)Jul/Aug
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest clothing is recommended. Remove footwear before entering the temple.
- Entry
- Free entry.
- Spend time walking around the outer walls to see the carvings, best in soft morning or late afternoon light.
- Visit Madwa Mahal and Cherki Mahal nearby, which are often skipped by visitors.
- Stay in Kawardha, as facilities near the temple are limited.
- Shravan Mondays are crowded with kanwariyas; choose another weekday for a quiet visit.
- Carry water and sun protection; the valley gets hot in summer.
Places to visit near Bhoramdeo Temple
- Madwa MahalLater Nagavanshi Shiva temple with carved walls, about 1 km away
- Cherki MahalSmall old brick temple, about 1 km away
- Bhoramdeo Wildlife SanctuaryForested sanctuary in the Maikal hills, about 5 km away
- Kawardha PalacePalace of the former Kawardha rulers, about 18 km away
Frequently asked questions
Why is Bhoramdeo called the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh?
Its walls are covered with finely carved figures, including dancers and amorous couples, in a style that recalls the temples of Khajuraho.
Who built Bhoramdeo Temple?
It is generally dated to the 11th century and linked to the Phani Nagavanshi rulers of the region.
How to reach Bhoramdeo Temple?
Travel to Kawardha by road from Raipur, about 115 km, then go about 18 km further to the temple.
What are the Bhoramdeo Temple timings?
It is usually open from early morning to evening. Check locally for festival-day changes.
What is the aarti time at Bhoramdeo Temple?
Morning aarti: Around 6:00 AM (approx.); Evening aarti: Around sunset (approx.). Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
Is there a dress code at Bhoramdeo Temple?
Modest clothing is recommended. Remove footwear before entering the temple.
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