Ram Tekri Temple
The Ram Tekri Temple is a serene and historically significant shrine dedicated to Lord Rama, located atop a small hill (tekri) on the periphery of Ratanpur. It is also sometimes referred to as Ramtekri Mandir or Ramtekri Fort Temple (confusing it with the one in Nagpur). The temple is widely believe d to have been constructed during the reign of the Maratha ruler Bimbaji Bhosle in the 18th century. This association stems from the presence of the Maratha ruler's image, often depicted standing in front of Lord Rama with folded hands, signifying his deep devotion. The hilltop location not only adds to the spiritual peace but also offers a beautiful panoramic view of the ancient Ratanpur town and its surrounding landscape of water bodies and greenery. While the temple's history is linked to the later Maratha period, the site itself holds mythological significance, with local legends suggesting it is a spot where Lord Rama might have rested during his exile (vanavasa), further cementing its religious importance, especially among devotees of Lord Rama. The temple is a tranquil spot, contrasting with the busy main town temples.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 hours:Place Type:
Religious Temple and Scenic Hilltop Viewpoint:Entry Fees:
Admission and Accessibility: There is no entry fee to visit the Ram Tekri Temple. It is a public religious site open to all visitors free of charge.
Special Rituals and Offerings: Fees are only applicable for conducting specific, elaborate ...Admission and Accessibility: There is no entry fee to visit the Ram Tekri Temple. It is a public religious site open to all visitors free of charge.
Special Rituals and Offerings: Fees are only applicable for conducting specific, elaborate Pujas or special ceremonies, which should be arranged directly with the temple priest. Basic offerings are purchased from local vendors.
Parking and General: Since it is on a hill, vehicle access is limited to a point, followed by a climb. There are usually no formal parking fees for the vehicles parked at the base, but local voluntary donations might be sought.Timing:
Regular Timings and Worship Hours: The temple is generally open for darshan from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The main Aarti is performed in the morning (around 8:00 AM) and evening (around 7:00 PM).
Ideal Visit Time for Comfort and Light: The ideal...Regular Timings and Worship Hours: The temple is generally open for darshan from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The main Aarti is performed in the morning (around 8:00 AM) and evening (around 7:00 PM).
Ideal Visit Time for Comfort and Light: The ideal visit time is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day, which can make the climb and hilltop stay uncomfortable. The view is also best during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.Special Events:
Ram Navami: The most important festival is Ram Navami (usually in March or April), the birthday of Lord Rama. This festival is celebrated with great devotion, special Pujas, devotional songs (bhajans), and often a small local fair, drawing the largest crowds of the year.Ram Navami: The most important festival is Ram Navami (usually in March or April), the birthday of Lord Rama. This festival is celebrated with great devotion, special Pujas, devotional songs (bhajans), and often a small local fair, drawing the largest crowds of the year.
Dussehra and Diwali: Festivals associated with the Ramayana, such as Dussehra (celebrating Rama's victory) and Diwali (celebrating his return), also see significant footfall and special rituals, often celebrated with great enthusiasm and light displays.Best Photo Spots:
Sunrise or Sunset Landscape View: The temple's hilltop location makes it the best photo spot for capturing the sunrise or sunset over the Ratanpur town and its numerous ponds, offering beautiful colors and soft light for landscape shots.
The Tem...Sunrise or Sunset Landscape View: The temple's hilltop location makes it the best photo spot for capturing the sunrise or sunset over the Ratanpur town and its numerous ponds, offering beautiful colors and soft light for landscape shots.
The Temple with the Town as Backdrop: Frame the temple structure or the entrance archway with the cityscape of Ratanpur visible in the background from the edge of the hill, giving context to the temple's commanding position.
Detailed Shot of Maratha Architecture and Patron: Take a close-up of the idol of Lord Rama (if permitted) and the historical statue/relief of Bimbaji Bhosle, capturing the unique fusion of religion and history.
The Pathway to the Temple: The steps or pathway leading up to the temple offer a great leading lines composition for photography, emphasizing the journey to the sacred site.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Climbing the Hill and Enjoying the View: The main activity is the gentle trek or climb up the hill (tekri) to reach the temple. Once there, spend time enjoying the spectacular panoramic view of Ratanpur, its tanks, and the surrounding countryside.
Offering Prayers to Lord Rama and Bhosle: Offer prayers (darshan) to Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana. Make sure to notice and pay respects to the statue of Bimbaji Bhosle, recognizing the historical patron of the shrine.
Attending the Morning or Evening Aarti: Try to attend the scheduled Morning or Evening Aarti (typically 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM) to witness the rituals and experience the temple's spiritual rhythm in the peaceful hilltop setting.
Photography of the Temple and Landscape: The hilltop location is excellent fo...
Information
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Why Famous:
The Maratha Royal Patronage and Devotion: The temple's primary fame lies in its direct association with the powerful Maratha ruler Bimbaji Bhosle, whose devotion led to its construction. The presence of his statue within the temple complex is a unique historical testament t...The Maratha Royal Patronage and Devotion: The temple's primary fame lies in its direct association with the powerful Maratha ruler Bimbaji Bhosle, whose devotion led to its construction. The presence of his statue within the temple complex is a unique historical testament to the merging of political power with religious faith, attracting both history enthusiasts and devotees.
Panoramic Views and Serene Ambiance: The hilltop location provides breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the Ratanpur area, making it a popular spot for sightseeing and relaxation. The relatively quiet and serene ambiance, away from the town's bustle, makes it a favored retreat for peaceful worship and meditation. -
Architecture:
Maratha Influence and Traditional Style: The temple structure reflects the architectural style of the later Maratha period, which often incorporated a more functional and simple design compared to the intricate Kalachuri structures. It is generally built of sturdy stone mas...Maratha Influence and Traditional Style: The temple structure reflects the architectural style of the later Maratha period, which often incorporated a more functional and simple design compared to the intricate Kalachuri structures. It is generally built of sturdy stone masonry with a typical curvilinear tower (shikhara) above the sanctum.
Dimension: The temple complex is not massive but includes the main sanctum (garbhagriha) for Lord Rama, a small assembly hall (mandapa), and a surrounding courtyard. The emphasis is on the central deity and the panoramic view from the hilltop.
Iconography and Sacred Idols: The main focus is the idol of Lord Rama, often accompanied by his consort Sita and brother Lakshmana. A unique architectural feature is the inclusion of a statue or relief of the founding patron, Maratha ruler Bimbaji Bhosle, within the temple complex, reinforcing the historical and devotional connection of the Maratha rule to the site. -
How To Reach:
By Air (Approx. 160 KMS) The nearest airport is Swami Vivekananda International Airport (RPR) in Raipur. From Raipur, hire a taxi or use the intercity bus service to Ratanpur via Bilaspur, taking around 3. 5 to 4 hours. By Train (Approx. 30 KMS) The most accessible railway station is Bilaspur Ju... -
Near Tourist Places:
Mahamaya Temple (3 KMS), Ratanpur Fort (3 KMS), Bhairavnath Mandir (3. 5 KMS), Kanti Deval Temple Complex (3. 5 KMS), Khutaghat Dam (8 KMS), Lutara Shareef (22 KMS), Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary (68 KMS), Malhar Archaeological Site (43 KMS), Pali (58 KMS), Kanan Pendari Zoo (31 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety (Climbing and Hydration) Wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a short, uneven climb up the hill. Carry adequate drinking water, especially during the day, as the hilltop area has limited facilities. Be cautious while taking photos near the edge of the hill. Packing (Binocula...
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