Chandrahasini Temple: A Guide To Chhattisgarh Spiritual Landmark

Full view of the main entrance to one of the Indian temples, similar to Chandrahasini Temple.

Chandrahasini Temple is one of the oldest, famous, pious, and beautiful Hindu temples. It is a temple dedicated to Goddess Chandrahasini, who is considered an incarnation of Goddess Durga. She is known as ‘the goddess with a moon-like smile.’ The temple is a symbol of peace and power together. Chhattisgarh is often regarded as a treasure house of cultural and historical monuments. It is a place of great cultural and historical importance and interest. Chhattisgarh is a place to visit for anyone interested in the religious heritage of Chhattisgarh.

Quick Details

  • Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM
  • Best Time To Visit: October to March (Navratri is particularly popular)
  • Time Duration: 2 – 3 hours
  • Nearest Railway Station: Champa Railway Station (45 km)
  • Nearest Airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur (150 km)
  • Where To Stay: The Shabri Hotel and Resort, AVN Residency, Hotel Shivam
  • Where To Eat: Vaishali Restaurant, Kayani Bakery, and Chaitanya Paranthas

About

One of the many Mahadev temples in Chattisgarh, similar to Chandrahasini Temple.

Photo: Jitendranakka1986 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This temple has enjoyed the status of a major shrine for the goddess and her many avatars (say, Kali, Chandika, or Ambika) and has attracted many devotees over the years. The river Mahanadi runs nearby, and this has made the site an ancient focal point of divine worship. As legend has it, the goddess revealed herself to protect the local villagers from invaders, and since then she has been worshipped as the defender of the region. She’s been renovated several times and has lost her ancient glory, yet continues to be devoted to today.

Location

An empty road with low mountains in front. The sky is filled with clear clouds.

Photo: Sujit Kumar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Chandrahasini Temple is in Chandrapur, in the Janjgir-Champa district of Chhattisgarh. Chandrapur is a small town on the bank of the Mahanadi River. Mahanadi is the third longest river in India. People spend time near the river for meditation, relaxation, and prayer.

How To Reach Chandrahasini Temple

An aeroplane flying low over the trees, with dark and clear clouds surrounding it.

Photo: Mohnish1208 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Since Chandrahasini Temple is well-connected via roads and railway, and there is an airport Chandrahasini Temple is well connected by road, rail, and air and is easy to reach.

By Road: The temple is well connected by road from Champa, Bilaspur and Raipur. There are many buses from nearby places to Chandrapur.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Champa Railway Station, It is situated at about 45 km from Chandrapur. From the railway station, local taxis and buses are available to take you to the temple.

By Air: The nearest airport to Chandrahasini Temple is Raipur’s Swami Vivekananda Airport which is around 150 km from Chandrapur. Take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple from the airport.

Places To Visit Near Chandrahasini Temple

Chandrahasini Temple is located in a region rich in history and natural beauty. Here are some nearby attractions that visitors can explore:

1. Kharud Nagar

A colourful and vibrant statue of goddess Durga surrounded by lush greenery.

Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kharud Nagar, situated about 30 km from Chandrahasini Temple, is an archaeologist’s delight. This small town is strewn with remains of ancient temples and monuments from centuries gone by. It’s one of the major attractions that draw history and architecture enthusiasts to this remote mountainous region. In earlier times, Kharud Nagar was a hub of religious and political activities: the temples, stupas, and rock-cut caves were built and maintained by the ruling Kalchuris of central India, for whom astronomy and astrology were of the utmost importance.

Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Explore ancient temple ruins, visit the archaeological site

2. Khuntaghat Dam

View of one of the lakes in India, surrounded by greenery, similar to Khuntaghat Dham.

Photo: Pateldushyant / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Khuntaghat Dam is situated by a lake formed due to a dam built across the Khuntaghat River. It is rich in green landscapes, and the dam is a great getaway away from bustling city life and a perfect place to sit back and relax. As a tourist, you can do bird watching and boating, as well as take walks along the dam. The Khuntaghat Dam is an important source of irrigation for the area’s agricultural community.

Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Boating, bird watching, photography, picnics by the dam

3. Pithampur Temple

One of the Indian temples surrounded by mountains, similar to Chandrahasini Temple.

Photo: Sarbartha bec / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Situated 10 km away from Chandrahasini Temple, Pithampur Temple, one of the oldest temples of God Shiva, stands firmly and gracefully. Although comparatively smaller than the majestic Chandrahasini, this temple has its great spiritual significance to locals. Many people visit this temple to seek the blessings of the Lord Shiva by offering prayers and participating in morning aarti in the temple. Simple yet elegant, Pithampur Temple has an old stone structure.

Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Attend the morning and evening aarti, offer prayers to Lord Shiva

4. Hasdeo River

View of the Hasdeo River near Chandrahasini Temple, surrounded by mountains and greenery.

Photo: Raj112887 / Wikimedia Commons

Located just 20 km away from Chandrahasini Temple, the Hasdeo River is one of the main tributaries of the Mahanadi. The Hasdeo River, a place of great natural beauty, passes through Chhattisgarh. This small river is the only source of mass tourism in the rural state of Chhattisgarh. This river in Chhattisgarh is the perfect place for outdoor activities such as picnics, fishing, camping, and photography. Due to the peace in this place, tourists are attracted and tempted by the fresh air and evergreen trees. Small temples and villages dot its banks, making it a cultural attraction as well.

Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Riverside walks, fishing, camping, photography

Other Factors To Consider

One of the stone-carved temples of India, similar to Chandrahasini Temple, Chattisgarh.

Photo: Bhaskaranaidu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The average cost of the trip to the Chandrahasini Temple in Chhattisgarh is around ₹5000 – ₹18000 per person depending upon the accommodation choice made by the visitors.

Things To Consider

  • Footwear: It is customary to remove your shoes before entering the temple premises. Make sure to wear easily removable footwear for convenience.
  • Clothing: Although there is no strict dress code, it is advisable to wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious environment.
  • Peak Seasons: If you’re planning to visit during Navratri, be prepared for large crowds. It is best to visit early in the morning to avoid long queues for darshan.
  • River Safety: If you’re spending time by the Mahanadi River, be cautious while walking near the water, especially during the monsoon season when water levels can rise unexpectedly.
  • Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to try local Chhattisgarhi cuisine at nearby eateries. Popular dishes include Chana Samosa, Aamat, and Sabudana Khichdi, which you can find at local food stalls.
  • Carry Cash: Since the temple is located in a rural area, ATM access may be limited. It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash for any donations or purchases.

From the tranquil setting of the temple at the bank of the Mahanadi River to the appeal of its historical significance and architectural beauty, travellers and devotees can expect much from a trip to the Chandrahasini Temple. Plan your trip with TripXL if you want to experience a perfect gateway for tourists and devotees alike to access inner peace.

Cover Photo: Kaushikvishu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Not at all. There are no entry charges, and one can visit the Chandrahasini temple without paying any charge.
The best time to visit the Chandrahasini Temple is from October to March, particularly during the Navratri festival when the temple is at its liveliest.
Yes, there are a few guest houses and hotels in Chandrapur and nearby towns where visitors can stay comfortably.
Though visitors can usually take photographs inside the temple premises, the temple is a sacred place, so it is advisable not to take photographs during religious ceremonies.
Yes, there is parking available near the temple for visitors arriving by car or bike. However, you have to pay a nominal fee to avail of the service.

Recommended Articles

Leave a Reply

Top Travel Destinations by Month