Battisa Mandir Barsur – Ancient Shiva Temple of Dantewada, Chhattisgarh

Battisa Mandir, located in Barsur town of Dantewada district, is one of the most important ancient temples of Chhattisgarh. This historic Shiva temple reflects the rich architectural and cultural heritage of the Bastar region.

Known for its unique design and spiritual significance, Battisa Mandir is a must-visit destination for history lovers, pilgrims, and travelers exploring offbeat tourist places in Chhattisgarh.

Battisa Mandir Barsur is situated on the Jagdalpur–Bhopalpatnam road, about 18 km from Gidam and nearly 100 km from Jagdalpur.

Surrounded by forests and tribal settlements, the temple stands peacefully amidst nature, offering visitors a calm and spiritual experience. Due to its historical importance, Barsur was once a major religious and cultural center in ancient times.

The temple gets its name from its most striking architectural feature—thirty-two stone pillars, known as Battis Stambh. Because of these pillars, the temple is called Battisa Mandir.

These pillars support the structure and demonstrate the advanced stone-carving skills of medieval craftsmen. The symmetry and balance of the temple make it one of the finest examples of Chhattisgarh heritage temples.

Inside the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), a sacred Shivling is enshrined on a square-shaped black stone jaladhari with a two-tiered (dwital) structure. The stone used in the construction gives the temple a strong and timeless appearance. The sanctum radiates devotion and tranquility, making it an important Shiva temple in Dantewada.

In the mandap, directly facing the Shivling, sits a beautifully carved Nandi statue. Nandi, the sacred bull and loyal devotee of Lord Shiva, is positioned in a traditional posture of devotion. Both the Shivling and Nandi sculpture appear highly detailed and lifelike, showcasing the artistic excellence of the period.

Architecturally, Battisa Mandir follows classical Hindu temple design. The temple faces east, allowing sunlight to enter the sanctum during sunrise, which holds great religious significance. This east-facing orientation highlights the spiritual planning involved in the temple’s construction.

Historically, Battisa Mandir was built during the 11th–12th century by the Chindak Nagvanshi dynasty, who ruled large parts of present-day Bastar and Dantewada.

The rulers were great patrons of Shaivism, and Barsur flourished as a prominent religious hub under their reign. The temple stands today as a testimony to their devotion and architectural vision.

Despite centuries of natural wear, Battisa Mandir Barsur continues to stand strong as a symbol of ancient Bastar temples and Chhattisgarh’s glorious past. For travelers interested in heritage tourism, ancient Shiva temples, and unexplored destinations, Battisa Mandir in Dantewada is truly a hidden gem worth visiting.