Sirpur is a small village located in the state of Chhattisgarh, situated on the banks of river Mahanadi. It is 35 km away from the Mahasamund district and around 78 km away from the city of Raipur, which is the […]
Sirpur is a small village located in the state of Chhattisgarh, situated on the banks of river Mahanadi. It is 35 km away from the Mahasamund district and around 78 km away from the city of Raipur, which is the capital of Chhattisgarh. The village of Sirpur is an archaeological wonder. Inspiration to many architects, this village is rich in its temple culture. A quaint hidden gem, it has a deep connection to the Buddhism world and a treasure for archaeological findings from the 8th century.
There are numerous temples one can visit, and is generally a hub for passionate historians. A look at the historical artefacts and the deep carvings on the walls of the temples have inspired many architects around the world. The Buddhist monasteries of this village are said to be one of the most important and most significant in India. Apart from the rich historical importance and fascinating findings in these villages, there is more to this village. The Chhattisgarh Tourism Board organises a music and dance festival here to promote the Buddhist sites and celebrate its culture. Offering a rare mix of art and culture with different performance and a deep history and evolution of art, Sirpur is a peaceful village filled with wonders.
More on Sirpur
History Of Sirpur
Also known as Shripur or Sripur, the name translates to an auspicious city. It has a rich cultural and architectural background and is often referred to as the ancient heritage. A report on a Lakshmana temple written by Alexander Cunningham (a British colonial) when he visited in the year 1872, brought Sirpur international attention. Famous for the many temples here, many site excavations over the years have led to prominent archaeological findings and understanding of the temple architecture evolution. The excavations conducted in the 2000s yielded Shiva temples, 5 Vishnu temples and Jain Viharas.
Places to Visit in Sirpur
Lakshman Temple
Sirpur is referred to as the pilgrimage site for the people who follow Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism; there are many sites you can visit in this village to get to know about its iconic history. The Lakshmana temple is one of the most popular spots in this village, and the architecture of this temple has been a constant inspiration for many architects.
Baleshwar Temple
Believed to be lost, this temple was excavated recently. It is named after the king Mahashivgupt Balarjun, who built the temple. Many of his items have been unearthed in the recently conducted excavation. Another interesting fact about this temple is that there is not one but three more temples in this place and they are all dedicated to the great Shiva.
Rama Temple
This temple is one of the oldest ones and is believed to be dedicated to Ram and Lakshman. A popular attraction, it has a star-shaped platform called Jagati and the place is situated near the Lakshmana Temple.
Buddha Vihara
Popularly known as the Sirpur Buddha Vihara, this is an 8th-century Buddhist temple built by Bhikshu Anand Prabhu. One of the most visited Buddhist pilgrims, this place has attracted many historians even who are studying and joining the dots of the Buddhism timeline. This is a place where you can witness architectural wonders.
Teevardev
Not far from the Lakshmana temple, it is a Buddhist monastery that had Buddhist artworks, statues and Hindu themes such as tales of Panchatantra. A beautiful meeting of the Buddhist and Hindu architecture, this temple is believed to be built by Shaiva Khan and his Buddhist Queen.
ASI Museum
ASI museum that has a rich collection of artefacts collected over the years in the various site excavations conducted. The museum is situated right in the Lakshmana temple so it’s easily accessible and a must visit.
Suggisted Itinerary
DAY 01: Raipur – Siripur.
Reception upon arrival at Raipur airport and then drive to the hotel. After check-in visit to Sirpur Buddhist Excavation site. Overnight at Raipur.
DAY 02: Raipur – Bhoramdeo
After breakfast drive to Bhoramdeo. Visit local market. Overnight at Bhoramdeo. (Must be Wednesday)
DAY 03: Bhoramdeo
Morning after breakfast visit of local villages and magnificent Bhoramdeo temple after lunch visit of Chilpi Weekly Tribal Market of Baiga Tribes. Overnight at Bhoramdeo. (Market is on Thursday)
DAY 04: Bhoramdeo – Taregaon – Kanker
After breakfast visit of Taregaon Market of Gond Tribes and then drive to Kanker visiting Rajim & Champaran. Overnight at Kanker. (Market is on Friday)
DAY 05: Kanker – Jagadalpur
Drive to Jagdalpur visiting Kondagaon Dhokra casting village and Kidei Chappda Cast Iron work village. Overnight at Jagdalpur.
DAY 06: Jagadalpur
Morning visit of Kanger Valley National Park and Tirathgarh Waterfall. After lunch visit of Chitrakoot Water Fall (The Niagara Fall of India). Overnight at Jagdalpur.
DAY 07: Jagadalpur – Narayan – Kanker
After breakfast deive to narayanpur visit some of the muria tribal village, observr their gutal and tradisonal dance proceed to Kanker. Overnight at Kanker.
DAY 08: kanker – Raipur
Drive to Raipur visiting Rajiblochan temple at Rajim and wood carving villages on the way. Overnight at Raipur.
DAY 09: DEPARTURE
After breakfast transfer to Raipur airport for onward journey.
