The Narayanpal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located near the confluence of rivers Indravati and Narangi, Narayanpal Village, Bastar District, Chhattisgarh. This ancient Vishnu Temple, also known as the Narayanpal Vishnu Temple, is thought to have been built nearly a thousand years ago and is a stunning example of architectural excellence.

The temple is believed to have been built by King Nagwanshi. The temple is an east-facing octagonal structure with seven chariots on top. According to archaeologists, the temple was originally a Shiva temple, so the idols of Lord Vishnu were established. The Narayanpal Temple, contemporary with India’s Khajuraho Temple, is the only one in the Bastar district that houses Lord Vishnu’s idol.

Significance of Narayanpal Temple Bastar

The temple’s historical context, dates from the 11th century CE and was built by Queen Mumundadevi of the Chindaka Nagavanshi dynasty. The architectural style of this temple is influenced by the Chalukya style of architecture. Interestingly, it is contemporaneous with the well-known Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh, India. This historical and architectural parallel sheds light on the cultural and artistic developments of that era and region.

History of Narayanpal Temple Bastar

According to historians, the temple was constructed around 1111 AD by the ruler of the Chhindak dynasty. According to written records, the temple was originally dedicated to Lord Shiva and was later dedicated to Lord Vishnu after the subsequent ruler placed an image of Lord Vishnu inside. Gunda Mahadevi, the mother of a ruler named Someshwar of the Chhindak Dynasty, wrote an inscription for the temple.

The architecture of Narayanpal Temple Bastar

The Narayanpal Temple is located at the confluence of the Indravati and Narangi rivers. This is the only Vishnu temple in the entire Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. Because of its unique specimens and amazing artwork, the Archaeological Department of India has preserved this site.

This east-facing temple is built in the Saptha Ratha style and stands on a large platform. Its imposing curvilinear sikhara is a notable architectural element. Within the sanctum, there is a black stone image of Lord Vishnu with four arms. An intriguing detail is the image being framed by a hooded snake, indicating tribal influences.

This temple has beautiful figures carved in small forms both inside and out. The spaces between are empty. This space appears to have once housed a statue. Someone must have taken it out. The temple’s height is approximately 70 feet. Inside, an 8-foot inscription was discovered. The symbols of Surya, Shivalinga, cow, and calf are printed alongside some words.

This place of natural beauty is nothing short of heaven. There is a popular legend that this temple was built by Queen Mumundadevi of the Chindak dynasty, who was interested in architecture and Chalukya-style art.

Facts about Narayanpal Temple Bastar

• Narayanpal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Narayanpal Village in Bastar District in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh.
• The temple is located near the Chitrakoot Waterfall in the village of Narayanpal, on the opposite bank of the Indravati River.
• This ancient Vishnu Temple, also known as the Narayanpal Vishnu Temple, is thought to have been built nearly a thousand years ago and is a stunning example of architectural excellence.
• The Narayanpal Temple in Bastar is strategically located near the confluence of the Indravati and Narangi rivers and reflects the Nagara architectural style of the 11th century.
• Following its establishment, the small village was initially known as Narayanpur, but it became more commonly known as Narayanpal.
• This temple is one of the few in the Bastar district to house a statue of Lord Vishnu, making it a one-of-a-kind architectural marvel in the style of the renowned Khajuraho temple.
• The Narayanpal Temple, built under the patronage of Queen Mumundadevi of the Chhindak dynasty, is influenced by Chalukya architecture.
• The temple faces east and is designed with a continuous plan, a broad base, and impressive curved lines that add to its aesthetic appeal.
• Although the temple was originally dedicated to Lord Shiva, the sanctum now houses a black stone idol of Vishnu with four arms.
• The temple’s layout includes an octagonal mandapa, an antechamber, and the sanctum, which all add to its architectural complexity.
• The entrance is Besar-style with a high shikhara, adding to the temple’s grandeur.

Famous Festivals In Narayanpal Temple Bastar

• Krishna Janmashtami – Lord Krishna was born on Ashtami, the eighth day of the Hindu month of Bhadra. The celebrations at the Temple begin early in the morning and continue until late at night.
• Holi – This festival is celebrated in the month of  Phalgun (Feb – March). During the celebration, people celebrate with colours and also celebrate and enjoy in temples complex.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• Chitra Poornima is also a major occasion for celebration in the temple.

Best Time to Visit Narayanpal Temple Bastar

This place is very heavenly and spiritual, and you can visit it all year. The best time to visit this temple, however, is during the monsoon and winter seasons. During the monsoon season, this location receives moderate to heavy rainfall, making it appear heavenly with its greenery and bringing freshness elsewhere.

How to Reach Narayanpal Temple Bastar

Narayanpal Temple is located in Narayanpal Village in Bastar District in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh.

By Air: The nearest airport is Maa Danteswari Airport in Jagdalpur, which is 40 km away from the Narayanpal Temple.

By Rail: The nearest convenient railway station is Jagdalpur Railway Station, which is 39 km away from the Narayanpal Temple.

By Road: State Transport Bus services connect Bastar with Jagdalpur, Raipur and Other Major Cities. The nearest bus stand is Jagdalpur Bus Station, which is 40 km away from the temple.

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