Nestled in the peaceful village of Tala, in Bilaspur district, Chhattisgarh, the Devrani-Jethani Temple is a hidden gem of Indian heritage. Believed to be constructed in the 6th century CE during the Gupta era, this temple complex holds immense historical, artistic, and spiritual significance. Known for its unique sculptures and rare architectural form, it provides a quiet yet powerful window into ancient India’s temple culture. For history lovers, art enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers, this destination offers a deeply enriching experience away from typical tourist crowds.
About the Temple
The Devrani-Jethani Temple complex comprises two ancient temples thought to have been built by two royal queens—Devrani (younger wife) and Jethani (elder wife) of the ruling Sharabhpuria dynasty. This site is now under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is recognized for its early structural stone temple design from the Gupta period.
Temple Description
Architecture: Early Gupta style; built using sandstone blocks.
Devrani Temple: Houses a unique 7.5-foot-tall Rudra Shiva idol, carved with faces of humans and animals.
Jethani Temple: Less adorned, simpler, but still historically relevant.
Sculptural Highlight: The Rudra idol, made from chlorite stone, is one of the rarest ancient Indian sculptures, blending multiple beings into one form human, lion, boar, elephant, and snake.
Temple Speciality
The Rudra idol is an artistic and symbolic masterpiece, representing Panchamukhi Rudra (five-faced Shiva).
Known for its symbolic representation of cosmic balance and unique iconography.
A one-of-a-kind sculpture in India with multi-animal facial symbolism.
Temple Details
Address: Devrani-Jethani Temple, Tala, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh – 495220, India
Coordinates: 21.8548°N, 82.2966°E
Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sevas: Not performed regularly due to ASI management; informal rituals observed on Mahashivratri
Visitor Amenities
Travel Facilities
Well-connected to Bilaspur (40 km) and Raipur (140 km) by road.
Local buses, jeeps, and private taxis available.
Food Facilities
Modest local eateries in Tala.
Full-service restaurants available in Bilaspur.
Stay Facilities
Basic accommodations in Tala.
Comfortable hotels and lodges in Bilaspur are recommended.
Nearby Travel Hubs
Railway Station:
Bilaspur Junction (BSP) – Major station, approx. 40 km away.
Airport:
Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur (RPR) – Approx. 140 km away.
Bus Station:
Bilaspur Bus Stand – Regular buses and jeeps to Tala.
How to Reach
By Bus
Route: Bilaspur → Ratanpur → Tala
Shared jeeps and private buses available frequently.
By Train
Reach Bilaspur Junction, then take a taxi or bus to Tala.
By Air
Land at Raipur Airport → Take a train or road trip to Bilaspur → Travel onward to Tala.
Nearby Cities
Bilaspur – 40 km
Raipur – 140 km
Ratanpur – 25 km
Nearby Attractions
Mahamaya Temple, Ratanpur
Malhar – Historical site with Vishnu temples and ruins
Khutaghat Dam – Natural scenic spot
Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary – For wildlife and eco-tourism
Best Time to Visit
October to March – Ideal weather for sightseeing and travel
Avoid April to June due to extreme summer heat
Local Shopping Highlights
Dokra metal crafts – Traditional tribal artistry
Kosa silk sarees – Locally woven and highly valued
Tribal jewelry and bamboo crafts – Found in Bilaspur markets and local haats
Temple Images
You can view authentic images here:
Google Image Search – Devrani Jethani Temple
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
Chhattisgarh Tourism
Suggested Day Trip Itinerary
From Bilaspur:
8:00 AM – Depart for Tala
9:30 AM – Explore Devrani-Jethani Temple
11:30 AM – Visit Ratanpur Mahamaya Temple
2:00 PM – Lunch in Bilaspur
4:00 PM – Optional stop at Khutaghat Dam or Malhar ruins
Evening – Return to Bilaspur or continue journey
