Kharaud
Kharaud is an ancient town of immense historical and religious significance, often referred to as the "Kashi of Chhattisgarh." It is famous for its cluster of ancient temples that date back to the 6th and 7th centuries. The most prominent among them is the Lakshmaneshwar Temple, which is linked to the Ramayana. Legend says that Lakshman worshipped Lord Shiva here to seek atonement. The town is a living museum of the Kalachuri and Panduvanshi dynasties. The architecture of these temples features intricate brickwork and stone carvings that are unique to this region. Walking through the narrow lanes of Kharaud, one feels transported back in time. The spiritual energy of the place is palpable, especially during the month of Shravan. Apart from the main temple, the Indal Deul and Shabari Temple are also must-visit sites. Each temple has a story to tell, etched into its walls through beautiful sculptures of deities and mythical scenes. The town serves as a major pilgrimage center for devotees of Lord Shiva. Its proximity to Shivrinarayan makes it part of an important religious circuit. For history buffs, the inscriptions found here provide vital clues about the medieval history of Central India. The local culture is deeply rooted in tradition, and festivals are celebrated with great pomp. A visit to Kharaud is not just a religious trip but a journey into the soul of Chhattisgarh's heritage.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Heritage / PilgrimageEntry Fees:
Free Entry: Like most active religious sites, there is no entry fee for the temples.
Special Puja: Devotees may choose to pay for specific rituals or offerings conducted by the priests. ...Free Entry: Like most active religious sites, there is no entry fee for the temples.
Special Puja: Devotees may choose to pay for specific rituals or offerings conducted by the priests.Timing:
Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 7:00 AM to witness the morning rituals in a peaceful setting. ...Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 7:00 AM to witness the morning rituals in a peaceful setting.Special Events:
Maha Shivratri: The biggest festival in February/March, where thousands of devotees perform night-long vigils and prayers.
Shravan Month: Every Monday of this holy month sees massive processions and special decorations. ...Maha Shivratri: The biggest festival in February/March, where thousands of devotees perform night-long vigils and prayers.
Shravan Month: Every Monday of this holy month sees massive processions and special decorations.Best Photo Spots:
Temple Shikhara: The towering spire against a clear sky is a classic shot.
Intricate Carvings: Close-ups of the stone-carved Dwarpals (gatekeepers) and floral patterns.
Ritual Moments: Capture the lightin...Temple Shikhara: The towering spire against a clear sky is a classic shot.
Intricate Carvings: Close-ups of the stone-carved Dwarpals (gatekeepers) and floral patterns.
Ritual Moments: Capture the lighting of oil lamps during the evening Aarti for a soulful image.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Temple Hopping: Visit the Lakshmaneshwar, Indal Deul, and Shabari temples in one circuit.
Spiritual Rituals: Offer rice grains (symbolizing the one lakh holes) at the main Shiva Linga.
Architectural Study: Observe the rare brick-molding techniques used in the Indal Deul temple.
Local Market Walk: Explore the town's small shops selling religious items and local sweets.
Holy Dip: Visit the nearby ponds where pilgrims take a ritual bath before entering the temple.
Photography: Document the intricate carvings of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Durga on the temple pillars.
Interaction with Priests: Listen to the local legends and the history of the Kalachuri kings from...
Information
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Why Famous:
Famous for Ancient Shiva Linga: The temple houses a unique Shiva Linga with "one lakh" (100,000) holes, believed to have been established by Lakshman.
Architectural Heritage: It is one of the few places in India showcasing the transition f...Famous for Ancient Shiva Linga: The temple houses a unique Shiva Linga with "one lakh" (100,000) holes, believed to have been established by Lakshman.
Architectural Heritage: It is one of the few places in India showcasing the transition from brick to stone temple architecture from the Gupta era. -
Architecture:
Nagar Style Influence: The temples are built in the classic Nagar style with tiered Shikharas (spires). The Lakshmaneshwar Temple stands on a high platform with a large sanctum and a mandapa.
Dimensions: The main temple spire rises to app...Nagar Style Influence: The temples are built in the classic Nagar style with tiered Shikharas (spires). The Lakshmaneshwar Temple stands on a high platform with a large sanctum and a mandapa.
Dimensions: The main temple spire rises to approximately 30 meters, featuring detailed carvings of Ganga and Yamuna at the entrance. The brickwork in Indal Deul is exceptionally fine. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur (130 KMS) is the closest.
By Train: Akaltara (25 KMS) or Janjgir-Champa (35 KMS) are the nearest railway stations.
By Road: Well-connected by state highways; bus... -
Near Tourist Places:
Shivrinarayan (9 KMS), Janjgir (35 KMS), Champa (40 KMS), Malhar (50 KMS), Ratanpur (80 KMS), Bilaspur (60 KMS), Tala (85 KMS), Madku Dweep (95 KMS), Raipur (125 KMS), Kutaghat (95 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: The stone floors can be slippery; walk carefully inside the temple.
Packing: Wear traditional or modest clothing; carry a scarf to cover your head if required.
Accommodation: Better t...
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