The Ancient Temples of the Kalachuri Group in Amarkantak are a must-visit for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers. These temples, built during the Kalachuri dynasty (10th-12th century), stand as a testament to India's rich heritage and devotion. Their intricate stone carvings, serene atmosphere, and historical significance make them one of the most fascinating places in Amarkantak.
Historical & Architectural Significance The Kalachuri rulers were known for their patronage of art and architecture, and these temples showcase their exquisite craftsmanship. The temples are built in the Nagara style of architecture, featuring beautifully carved pillars, intricate sculptures, and detailed inscriptions that depict various Hindu deities and mythological stories.
The most notable temples in this complex include: Karna Mandir – Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple has stunning stonework and ancient inscriptions. Pataleshwar Mahadev Temple – A beautiful shrine with a sacred Shivling, believed to have been established by King Karna of the Kalachuri dynasty. Machhendranath Temple – A unique temple with historical and spiritual importance. Vishnu Temple – Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing intricate carvings and a peaceful ambiance.
Spiritual & Cultural Experience These temples hold deep religious significance and attract devotees from all over India.
The calm and peaceful environment makes it an ideal place for meditation and spiritual reflection.
Many visitors find the energy and aura of this place truly divine.
Accessibility & Infrastructure Location: The temple complex is situated in Amarkantak and is easily accessible from the main town.
Timings: Open from early morning till evening.
Entry Fee: No entry fee, but donations for temple maintenance are welcome.
Maintenance: The temples are well-preserved, thanks to the efforts of ASI (Archaeological Survey of India).
Best Time to Visit Winter months (October to February) offer the most pleasant weather for exploration.
Visiting during festivals like Mahashivratri enhances the spiritual experience.
Final Verdict The Ancient Temples of the Kalachuri Group are a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and architectural brilliance. Whether you're a devotee, a history buff, or a traveler seeking peace, this place is worth visiting. The intricate stonework and sacred vibes will leave...
Read moreAmarkantak (NLK Amarakaṇṭaka) is a pilgrim town and a Nagar Panchayat in Anuppur, Madhya Pradesh, India. The Amarkantak region is a unique natural heritage area and is the meeting point of the Vindhyaand the Satpura Ranges, with the Maikal Hills being the fulcrum. This is where the Narmada River, the Son River and Johila River emerge.Ancient temples, Amarkantak
The ancient temples of Kalachuri period are in the south of Narmadakund, just behind it.[6]These were built by Kalachuri Maharaja Karnadeva (1041–1073 AD.
The town of Amarkantak is surrounded by a rich variety of flora with medicinal properties.The Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary, is located at a distance of no more than 40 km from the town of Amarkantak in the state of Chhattisgarh on the road to Bilaspur.[9] The enchanting lush green forest belt in Amarkantak is a part of Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve. The forests of Amarkantak are linked with the forests of Kanha National Park. Amarkantak falls on the Kanha-Achanakmar Corridor, a hilly region covered with dense forests. Kanha and Achanakmar are both conserved wildlife parks in India famous for Bengal tigers.
Pinus caribaea, known as tropical pine, was planted in Amarkntak in 1968 on advice of Forest Research Institute, Dehradun on the recommendations of National Commission on Agriculture looking to the future demand of quality pulp wood. This work was undertaken under a World Bank Technical Assistance Project by clearing natural sal forests. The naturalists and environmentalists in India raised a controversy over it; ultimately the project of tropical pine plantation...
Read moreThe only old structures in the ancient pilgrimage of Amarkantak are the Ancient Temples of the Kalachuri Period, located bang opposite the Narmada Udgam Temple complex. The temples were built by the Kalachuri kings, who ruled central India during the 10 – 12 th century. According to legend Shankaracharya built the Surya Kunda in Amarkantak, in 8th century AD, to specify the origin of Narmada. It is also said that Shankara installed the idol of lord Shiva in Pateleshwar Temple, strangely the Pateleshwar temple was built much later during the reign of Kalachuri King Karnadeva (1041 – 1073). The temple complex located next to the ancient man made water body has several structures belonging to the Nagara style of architecture. The Pateleshwar Temple is crowned with a pancharath sikhara and has a pyramidal mandap.The Karna Temple, the largest and the most prominent temple in the Kalachuri Temple complex, is crowned with a towering ornate sikhara.The complex also contains several other temples including the Johila Temple, Vishnu Temple and Shiva Temple. Another interesting structure in the Kalachuri Temple complex is the Pancha Math Temple. A series of five small temples, of different architectural style, located on a single raised platform. Today the Kalachuri Temple complex is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the complex is very well maintained with manicured lawns and landscape gardening. Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM Entry: Rs....
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