Kharaud
Ancient Heritage and Religious Sanctity: Kharaud is an ancient town often referred to as the "Kashi of Chhattisgarh" due to its dense concentration of temples and spiritual significance. The crown jewel of this town is the Laxmaneshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to local legends and the Ramayana tradition, this temple was established by Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, to atone for the sin of killing Ravana. The temple is part of the Ram Van Gaman Path, the legendary route taken by Lord Rama during his exile. The primary deity is a unique Shiva Linga known as the 'Laksh-Linga', which is said to have one lakh (100,000) small holes on its surface. Devotees believe that an offering of water or grains into these holes reaches the ancestors directly. The town itself feels like a living museum, with ancient stone carvings and inscriptions scattered throughout the village. The spiritual energy of the temple is complemented by its historical depth, as it dates back to the Kalachuri and Panduvanshi periods. Visiting Kharaud is not just a religious trip but a journey back in time to the golden era of Central Indian temple architecture.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Historical / ReligiousEntry Fees:
Free Entry: There is no entry fee to visit the Laxmaneshwar Temple. It is a public place of worship open to all.
Donations: Visitors may choose to donate to the temple trust for its upkeep and the various social service activities they cond...Free Entry: There is no entry fee to visit the Laxmaneshwar Temple. It is a public place of worship open to all.
Donations: Visitors may choose to donate to the temple trust for its upkeep and the various social service activities they conduct in the village.Timing:
Regular Timings: The temple is open from 05:30 AM to 12:30 PM and then from 04:00 PM to 08:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 06:00 AM is perfect for those who want to witness the morning rituals and enjoy the temple in its most seren...Regular Timings: The temple is open from 05:30 AM to 12:30 PM and then from 04:00 PM to 08:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 06:00 AM is perfect for those who want to witness the morning rituals and enjoy the temple in its most serene and peaceful state.Special Events:
Maha Shivratri: This is the most grand event at the temple. Thousands of devotees stand in long queues for hours to offer water to the Shiva Linga, and the entire town is decorated with lights and flowers.
Sharavan Somvar: During the holy m...Maha Shivratri: This is the most grand event at the temple. Thousands of devotees stand in long queues for hours to offer water to the Shiva Linga, and the entire town is decorated with lights and flowers.
Sharavan Somvar: During the holy month of Sawan, special prayers are organized every Monday, attracting large crowds from the neighboring districts of Janjgir-Champa and Bilaspur.Best Photo Spots:
Temple Entrance Gate: The ornate stone gateway provides a majestic frame for a full-shot of the temple complex.
The Inner Sanctum View: While photography inside the sanctum is restricted, shots from the mandapa looking towards the Shiva Ling...Temple Entrance Gate: The ornate stone gateway provides a majestic frame for a full-shot of the temple complex.
The Inner Sanctum View: While photography inside the sanctum is restricted, shots from the mandapa looking towards the Shiva Linga capture the mystical lighting of the lamps and incense.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Pilgrimage and Historical Study:
Performing Abhishekam: Participate in the traditional water offering to the Laksh-Linga. Observing the water disappearing into the numerous holes is a fascinating experience for both the faithful and the curious.
Studying Ancient Sculptures: Take a walk around the temple exterior to admire the 12th-century stone carvings. Look for the detailed depictions of Lord Vishnu's avatars and various mythological scenes.
Photography of the Shikhara: The towering spire of the temple is a masterpiece of symmetry. Use the early morning light to capture the shadows and highlights of the intricate stone work.
Exploring the Town of Kharaud: Walk through the narrow lanes of the village to find other smaller, anc...
Information
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Why Famous:
The Laksh-Linga: It is world-famous for the unique Shiva Linga that contains 100,000 holes, a feature not found in any other major temple in India.
Ramayana Connection: The temple is a key site on the Ram Van Gaman Path, making it a major at...The Laksh-Linga: It is world-famous for the unique Shiva Linga that contains 100,000 holes, a feature not found in any other major temple in India.
Ramayana Connection: The temple is a key site on the Ram Van Gaman Path, making it a major attraction for those following the mythological trail of Lord Rama and Laxman. -
Architecture:
Indo-Aryan Stone Craft:
Architectural Style: The temple follows the Nagara style of architecture, characterized by a tall, curved spire (Shikhara) and intricate stone carvings. The exterior walls are decorated with sculptures of deities, cel...Indo-Aryan Stone Craft:
Architectural Style: The temple follows the Nagara style of architecture, characterized by a tall, curved spire (Shikhara) and intricate stone carvings. The exterior walls are decorated with sculptures of deities, celestial dancers, and floral patterns.
Dimensions and Features: The main sanctum (Garbhagriha) measures approximately 15x15 feet, while the entire temple complex sits on a raised platform. The 'Laksh-Linga' itself is about 2 feet in height and is a geological and artistic marvel with its myriad of tiny indentations representing a hundred thousand individual lingas. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is in Raipur (130 KMS). From there, you can hire a cab. The drive takes you through the scenic agricultural heartland of Chhattisgarh.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Akaltara (30 KMS) or Bilaspur (62 K... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Shivrinarayan Temple (3 KMS), 2. Pithampur Shiva Temple (40 KMS), 3. Damudhara Waterfall (75 KMS), 4. Malhar (35 KMS), 5. Chandrahasini Devi Temple (80 KMS), 6. Kanan Pendari Zoo (75 KMS), 7. Ratanpur (85 KMS), 8. Janjgir Vishnu Temple (45 KMS), 9. Tala (60 KMS), 10. Raipur (130 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: The stone floors can get very hot in the summer; wear socks to protect your feet. Be cautious of monkeys around the temple premises and avoid carrying open food bags.
Packing Essentials: Carry a scarf or shawl to cover y...
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Tamda Ghumar WaterfallTeerathgarh TempleTirathgarh WaterfallRaikera BoatingRajimSamoda DamShivrinarayanSirpur Forest RangeSwastik ViharaJharalava Waterfall JhirkaKirandul Iron Ore MinesKripar WaterfallMama-Bhanja TempleArang Dhuskund WaterfallKodar IslandPurkhauti MuktanganMandwa WaterfallMore PlacesNote:-
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