Nestled in the scenic town of Dongargarh in Rajnandgaon district, Chhattisgarh, Maa Bamleshwari Temple is a sacred destination for devotees of Goddess Durga. Standing proudly atop a 1,600 ft high hill, this divine shrine has been a beacon of faith and devotion for centuries. Whether you're drawn by its spiritual significance, architectural beauty, panoramic views, or the thrill of reaching it via ropeway or 1100 stairs, the temple offers a holistic pilgrimage experience steeped in tradition and tranquility.
The temple is especially vibrant during Navratri, when thousands of pilgrims arrive from across India, filling the air with devotional chants and celebrations. Here’s your all-in-one travel and temple guide to plan a peaceful, fulfilling, and well-informed journey.
About the Temple
Maa Bamleshwari Temple is dedicated to Maa Durga, locally known as Bamleshwari Mata. It is believed to be a siddhpeeth (place of spiritual power) and holds deep mythological and historical value. The complex consists of:
Badi Bamleshwari Temple – located on the hilltop
Chhoti Bamleshwari Temple – situated at the base
Temple Highlights
1,600 ft high hill location
Ropeway and stairs access
Major pilgrim center during Navratri
Round-the-clock jagaran & bhajans during festivals
Local legend of royal devotion and divine blessings
Temple Overview
Name: Maa Bamleshwari Temple
Location: Dongargarh, Rajnandgaon District, Chhattisgarh
Coordinates: 21.1901° N, 80.7549° E
Address: Maa Bamleshwari Temple, Dongargarh, Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh – 491445
Temple Timings & Sevas
Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Ropeway: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Sevas:
Daily aartis and abhishekams
Special pujas during festivals
Prasadam distribution
Devotional offerings like coconut, bangles, sarees
Visitor Facilities
Ropeway and stairs for temple access
Small eateries and food stalls
Dharamshalas and budget hotels nearby
Basic medical and emergency facilities
Travel Connectivity
Nearest Railway Station: Dongargarh (2 km)
Nearest Airport: Raipur (110 km)
Bus Depot: Dongargarh Bus Stand
How to Reach
Air:
Fly to Raipur Airport, then travel by road or rail to Dongargarh.
Train:
Well-connected on the Mumbai-Howrah mainline with regular trains from Raipur, Durg, Bilaspur, Nagpur.
Bus:
Frequent buses from Raipur, Durg, Rajnandgaon, and Nagpur.
Nearby Attractions
Chhoti Bamleshwari Temple
Tandula Dam
Kanha National Park
Ramtek Temple (Nagpur)
Local Culture & Shopping
Religious offerings: idols, sindoor, bangles
Handicrafts, tribal jewelry, bamboo products
Famous local sweets: jalebi, imarti, namkeen
Best Time to Visit
October to March – Pleasant climate, Navratri festivals
Avoid summer due to heat, especially for stair climb
Safety Tips
Use the ropeway for ease
Stay hydrated during the climb
Keep belongings safe from monkeys
Ropeway may be closed during rains—check locally
Useful Contacts
Maa Bamleshwari Temple is not just a destination; it’s an experience of spiritual energy, scenic beauty, and cultural richness. Whether you visit for blessings, exploration, or introspection, the temple’s divine aura and peaceful setting make it a worthwhile journey. From sunrise prayers at the hilltop to evening aartis echoing across the valley, every moment here deepens the connection between the divine and the devotee.
