Discover the Ancient Jogimara and Sitabenga Caves in Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh, known for its rich cultural history, offers a glimpse into India's ancient past through its many historical sites. Among these are the Jogimara and Sitabenga caves in the Ramgarh hills near Ambikapur.

These caves are renowned for their early rock-cut architecture and hold immense historical and archaeological significance. The eastern wall of the cave features an inscription in Brahmi script from the Ashoka period, adding historical value to the site.

Sitabengra and Jogimara caves are prime examples of early Indian rock-cut structures. The Sitabengra Cave, accessible by a set of stairs, is a small yet fascinating cave. Its layout is rectangular, measuring 14 meters in length, 5 meters in width, and 1.8 meters in height.

The roof is flat, adding a unique architectural element to the structure. In front of the cave, a crescent-shaped stone bench has been constructed, offering a peaceful space to sit and reflect.

Just a short distance away is the Jogimara Cave, another intriguing rock-cut structure. The dimensions of this cave are smaller, with a length of 3 meters, a width of 1.8 meters, and a height of 1.8 meters.

The cave faces the northeast and is made of Gaj stone. Inside the cave, you will find a variety of depictions, including geometric patterns, fish, animals, and dance group scenes, all of which are painted in vivid detail.

These ancient paintings, known as Jogimara Cave Paintings, provide one of India's earliest examples of mural art. The inscriptions in Brahmi script, dated to the 3rd-2nd century BCE, mention the love affair between a woman named Devdasi and a man named Rudraksha Dev Din, marking an early reference to the Devdasi practice.

The combination of artistry and history found within these caves is fascinating. For anyone exploring Chhattisgarh, visiting the Jogimara Caves and Sitabenga Caves offers a chance to connect with India’s rich heritage.

The Ramgarh hill region, where both caves are located, adds to the beauty of this ancient site. These caves reflect early architectural brilliance and provide insight into ancient practices and lifestyles.

For travelers looking to immerse themselves in history, the Jogimara Caves and Sitabenga Caves offer a unique glimpse into the past, making them must-visit attractions in the region.