Bilaspur - A Historical City in Chhattisgarh
Location: Chhattisgarh, 111km from Raipur
Bilaspur is located around 111 km from the capital city of Raipur in the newly formed state of Chhattisgarh. The place is famous for its Kosa silk wear, Doobraj rice and a distinct culture. Historically, Bilaspur was under the rule of Kalchuri dynasty and was overtaken by the British Empire in 1854. It is located along the banks of River Arpa and the climate is pleasant throughout the year. Besides being an urbanized place, Bilaspur is home to a number of tourist places. The variety in wildlife and greenery is also noteworthy.
Places to see in Bilaspur
Most of the tourist attractions in Bilaspur are associated with the history, cultural and heritage of the city. There are prominent Hindu shrines here.
Rani Sati Temple - The Marwaris built this temple originally in the state of Rajasthan and then in Bilaspur. Though there is no image of any deity or statue present in the temple premises, the shrine is dedicated to a universal power and force. It is a famous pilgrimage center in Rajasthan as well as Bilaspur. According to history, Rani Sati belonged to a Marwari family and performed Sati after the death of her husband.
Mahamaya Temple - This is another Hindu shrine in the Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh. Pilgrims and visitors throng Ratanpur during the eve of navratri and the temple trustees light the Jyoti Kalash during this time. This temple is around 25 km away from the city of Bilaspur.
The architecture is that of the Nagar school and was built in the 12th century. The architecture of the temple is praise worthy. There are 6 columns built of stone and the temple complex has statues of Mahakali, Surya Dev, Lord Vishnu, Hanuman and Kalbhairav besides the main statues of Mahamaya. Facing the main temple pond are the two statues of the principal deity Mahamaya - the first one is of Mahishasur Mardini and the latter one is that of Goddess Saraswati. Mahamaya, according to Hindu legends, is a manifestation of Goddess Parvati or Durga.
Bhoramdeo Temple - Popularly referred to as the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh, Bhoramdeo Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is best accessible from Kawardha. Surrounded by a scenic landscape and the mountain ranges, Bhoramdeo is a beautiful place of visit. It is believed to be constructed between 7-11th century by the Nag dynasty rulers. It reflects the Nagar style of architecture and main shrine has stone carvings similar to Khaujraho. There is a shivalinga in the temple sanctum. The decorative images of Natraj, Narsimha and Bhairava adorn the temple dome and walls. You will have to cover around 116 km by car from Raipur to reach this place.
Ram Tekri - This temple in Bilaspur is also known as the Ram Janaki Temple and has the idols of Lord Rama, Hanuman and Sita devi. Other images of Hindu deities here are of Kalbhairav and Lord Vishnu.
Excursion from Bilaspur
A drive of few kilometers will take you to some of the interesting locales close to Bilaspur city
Khadia Dam, Bilaspur - The Khadia Dam is situated around 85 km from Bilaspur city and known for its beautiful surrounding. The region around this dam is also popular as the Rice Bowl of Chhattisgarh, as the water feeds the paddy fields around. The dam is also popular among rafters and angling is an important activity here. On a day's excursion, you can also arrange for a picnic and some outdoor sports.
Ratanpur Fort - 25 km drive from Bilaspur city, Ratanpur Fort is another historical attraction that is partly in a dilapidated condition now. Yet it remains to be a significant place of visit for its impressive construction. There are exquisite stone sculptures over the Ganesh Gate of the fort. The entrance also has a Lord Shiva idol flanked on its right.
