About Mahishasuramardini Temple
Mahishasuramardini Temple is an 11th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga as Mahishasuramardini, located atop Chaiturgarh Hill (Lafagarh) in Korba District, Chhattisgarh. Situated at about 930 meters elevation within the historic Chaiturgarh Fort, it is known for its rare 12-handed stone idol of the goddess slaying Mahishasura, Kalchuri-era architecture, and panoramic views of the Maikal Hills and surrounding forests.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a hilltop pilgrimage and heritage site reached by a steep trek of about 5 km with steps and forested trails to the fort plateau. At the top is a small stone temple housing the 12-armed Mahishasuramardini idol, remains of fort walls, gateways and ancient structures, and open viewpoints over valleys and forests. The setting is natural and relatively undeveloped with basic stalls near the base and limited facilities at the summit.
Key highlights
- 01
12-handed stone idol of Goddess Mahishasuramardini slaying Mahishasura
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Located inside the historic Chaiturgarh Fort (Lafagarh) at ~3060 feet elevation
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11th-century Kalchuri-era architecture and archaeological remains
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Panoramic views of Maikal Hills, valleys and forests from the hilltop plateau
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Important Shakti pilgrimage centre especially during Navratri
History of Mahishasuramardini Temple
The temple dates to the 11th century and was built during the Kalchuri dynasty. It lies within Chaiturgarh Fort, also called Lafagarh, one of the 52 forts of the Kalchuris and considered one of the strongest natural forts in Chhattisgarh due to its hilltop location and fortified walls, gateways and water reservoirs.
Culture & Context
The temple is a revered Shakti shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga in her Mahishasuramardini form. It holds religious importance for local communities and pilgrims, with major gatherings during Navratri and Dussehra for worship and rituals.
Route
| By air |
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