Batissa Temple
The Batissa Temple, also known as the Battisa Mandir, is a stunning archaeological relic located in the historical town of Barsur. Built during the 11th Century by the Nagvanshi dynasty, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The name "Batissa" is derived from the Hindi word for thirty-two (32), r eferring to the precise number of stone pillars that support the main structure of the temple mandapa. Each pillar is a masterpiece of medieval stone carving, featuring intricate patterns and motifs that have survived for nearly a thousand years. The temple consists of two sanctums (garbhagrihas) sharing a common hall, which is a rare architectural layout in this region. Inside the sanctums, one can find beautifully carved Shiva Lingas and an idol of Nandi, the sacred bull, facing the deities. The entire structure is made of solid stone without the use of mortar, showcasing the advanced dry-masonry techniques of the era. The temple sits in a quiet, park-like complex maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Barsur itself was once a major religious hub with over 147 temples, and Batissa remains one of the best-preserved examples of its former glory. The serene atmosphere of the site, combined with the historical weight of the carvings, makes it a spiritual and educational experience. Visitors are often captivated by the symmetry of the pillars and the cooling effect of the stone architecture, which provides a peaceful refuge from the tropical heat.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 HoursPlace Type:
Heritage & ReligionEntry Fees:
Standard Entry: Free for all visitors, as it is a protected monument under the state archaeology department.
Camera Fee: Usually free, though commercial filming requires special permission from the Dantewada district office. ...Standard Entry: Free for all visitors, as it is a protected monument under the state archaeology department.
Camera Fee: Usually free, though commercial filming requires special permission from the Dantewada district office.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM; temple remains closed after sunset.
Ideal Visit Time: Afternoon around 03:00 PM provides soft lighting on the pillars for the best photographic results. ...Regular Timings: Open daily from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM; temple remains closed after sunset.
Ideal Visit Time: Afternoon around 03:00 PM provides soft lighting on the pillars for the best photographic results.Special Events:
Maha Shivratri: The temple comes alive with thousands of devotees performing special rituals and lighting oil lamps.
Local Madai: During the harvest season, tribal fairs nearby bring traditional music and dance to the temple vicinity. ...Maha Shivratri: The temple comes alive with thousands of devotees performing special rituals and lighting oil lamps.
Local Madai: During the harvest season, tribal fairs nearby bring traditional music and dance to the temple vicinity.Best Photo Spots:
The Mandapa: Standing at the entrance to capture the perspective of the repeating pillars leading to the sanctum.
Nandi Statue: The weathered but detailed stone Nandi provides a great foreground for shots of the temple. ...The Mandapa: Standing at the entrance to capture the perspective of the repeating pillars leading to the sanctum.
Nandi Statue: The weathered but detailed stone Nandi provides a great foreground for shots of the temple.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Pillar Study: Examine the unique carvings on each of the 32 pillars to understand ancient Indian craftsmanship.
Spiritual Meditation: Spend time in the quiet temple hall to experience the peaceful energy of this thousand-year-old site.
Photography: Take detailed shots of the weathered stone textures and the symmetry of the ancient pillared hall.
Walk the Grounds: Explore the surrounding ruins in the Barsur complex, including the nearby Mama Bhanja Temple.
Cultural Interaction: Speak with the local priests or caretakers to learn about the legends of the Nagvanshi kings.
Picnic: Enjoy the well-maintained green lawns surrounding the temple for a quiet afternoon break with family.
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Information
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Why Famous:
Historical Legacy: It represents the peak of Nagvanshi architecture and the rich cultural history of the Bastar region.
Unique Numerology: Famous for the architectural precision of its exactly 32 stone pillars that support the entire roof. ...Historical Legacy: It represents the peak of Nagvanshi architecture and the rich cultural history of the Bastar region.
Unique Numerology: Famous for the architectural precision of its exactly 32 stone pillars that support the entire roof.
Spiritual Aura: The ancient Shiva Lingas continue to be places of active worship and deep spiritual significance for locals. -
Architecture:
Pillar Design: The 32 pillars are arranged in a symmetrical grid, featuring square bases and circular shafts with floral carvings.
Twin Sanctums: The temple follows a unique "Dvikuta" plan with two separate shrines facing the same pillared ...Pillar Design: The 32 pillars are arranged in a symmetrical grid, featuring square bases and circular shafts with floral carvings.
Twin Sanctums: The temple follows a unique "Dvikuta" plan with two separate shrines facing the same pillared mandapa.
Dimensions: The temple platform measures approximately 15 Meters in length and 10 Meters in width. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Jagdalpur (95 KMS). Travelers can hire a private taxi from the airport to reach Barsur.
By Train: Reach Dantewada Station (33 KMS) and take a local bus or auto-rickshaw towards the Barsur road.
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Near Tourist Places:
Mama Bhanja Temple (0. 5 KMS), Ganesh Statue (1 KMS), Chandraditya Temple (1. 5 KMS), Danteshwari Temple (35 KMS), Dholkal Ganesh (50 KMS), Bailadila Mountains (75 KMS), Fulpad Waterfalls (85 KMS), Indravati River (2 KMS), Jagdalpur (95 KMS), Muchnar River Beach (10 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Watch your step on the uneven stone floors; carry a water bottle as there are no shops inside.
Packing: Wear modest clothing out of respect for the religious site; sunhats are recommended for the walk to the temple.
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