Mahamaya Devi Temple is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas of India and a significant pilgrimage site in Chhattisgarh. Dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya, a fierce form of Durga, the temple is located in the town of Ratanpur, once the capital of the Kalachuri kingdom. Believed to be built around the 11th century by King Ratna Devi, the temple reflects classic Nagara architecture and spiritual depth.
Temple Description
Built of black stone in Nagara-style architecture with a double sanctum dedicated to Mahamaya and Saraswati.
Carvings on the pillars and doors are rich in iconography from the Shakta tradition.
Enclosed in a peaceful courtyard with a sacred kund (tank) nearby.
Temple Speciality
One of India’s revered Shakti Peethas – site where Sati’s shoulder is believed to have fallen.
Active center for Tantra Sadhana.
Major spiritual focus during Navratri festivals.
Popular among devotees for fulfilling wishes and healing rituals.
Location & Coordinates
Address: Mahamaya Temple, Ratanpur, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh – 495442, India
Latitude & Longitude: 22.3533° N, 82.1595° E
Temple Timings
Opening Time: 6:00 AM
Closing Time: 8:30 PM
Aarti: Morning at 6:30 AM | Evening at 7:30 PM
Sevas & Rituals
Daily Aarti Seva and Bhog offering
Mahamaya Yantra Puja
Navratri Special Pujas
Tantric rituals (only through proper channels)
How to Reach the Temple
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur – approx. 130 km
By Train:
Nearest Station: Bilaspur Junction (25 km)
Major railway hub with direct trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Raipur.
By Bus/Road:
From Bilaspur: Frequent buses and taxis to Ratanpur Bus Stand (1 km from the temple)
Bus routes from Raipur, Korba, Ambikapur, Durg, and other regional towns.
Bus, Train & Air Routes
Bus Routes: From Bilaspur every 30–60 mins, and from Raipur, Korba, Durg.
Train Routes: Reach Bilaspur Junction → travel by taxi/bus to Ratanpur.
Air Routes: Fly to Raipur → taxi/train to Bilaspur → onward road trip to temple.
Nearby Cities
Bilaspur – 25 km
Raipur – 130 km
Korba – 100 km
Ambikapur – 190 km
Accommodation & Food
Stay Facilities:
Budget lodges and dharamshalas in Ratanpur.
Hotels and resorts available in Bilaspur for a more comfortable stay.
Food Facilities:
Temple Prasad available daily.
Local vegetarian eateries and dhabas.
Simple Chhattisgarhi meals and snacks.
Festivals Celebrated
Chaitra Navratri (March–April)
Ashwin Navratri (September–October)
Maha Shivaratri (local Shiva shrines also attract pilgrims)
Spiritual Significance
Worship site of Mahamaya, an embodiment of Shakti.
Attracts Tantric practitioners and spiritual seekers.
Kund (tank) near the temple used for holy bathing and rituals.
Nearby Attractions
Bhairav Mandir – within Ratanpur
Ram Tekri – small hilltop shrine nearby
Khutaghat Dam – scenic reservoir and picnic spot (10 km)
Malhar – ancient archaeological site (~40 km)
Baba Bairam Shah Dargah – symbol of communal harmony
Shopping & Local Crafts
Ratanpur: Religious items, brass diyas, small idols.
Bilaspur:
Kosa silk sarees
Tribal handicrafts
Terracotta and wooden crafts
Best Season to Visit
October to March – Pleasant weather for darshan and local exploration.
Navratri – Ideal time for spiritual experience and witnessing cultural vibrance.
Suggested One-Day Visit Plan
From Bilaspur:
7:00 AM – Depart to Ratanpur
8:00 AM – Darshan and Aarti
9:00 AM – Explore temple carvings and kund
10:00 AM – Breakfast
11:00 AM – Visit Bhairav Mandir & Ram Tekri
1:00 PM – Lunch & shopping
3:00 PM – Visit Khutaghat Dam
6:00 PM – Return to Bilaspur
The Mahamaya Devi Temple in Ratanpur is not just a place of worship it’s a profound journey into the heart of India’s ancient spiritual heritage. With its compelling history, sacred energy, artistic grandeur, and accessible location, it promises a fulfilling experience to every visitor. Whether you're attending a grand Navratri celebration or enjoying a quiet morning darshan, the temple leaves a lasting impression of divine peace and cultural richness.If you're planning a spiritual tour or simply curious about India’s sacred geography, Mahamaya Temple is a destination you shouldn't miss.
