Chausath Yogini Temple, Jabalpur

The temple of 64 Yoginis or the Chausath Yogini temple is a powerful religious centre constructed by the Kalchuri dynasty. One of the famous locations to visit in Jabalpur, it is also a place of importance in the study of the beginnings of the world. The temple is built of granite and sandstone and depicts the architectural precision of that era. Like several other temples, it is also located atop a hill and can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs. It is one of the few remaining active Yogini temples in the country, and it is dedicated to a group of female deities in Hinduism. 

The temple is believed to have been built during the 10th and 11th centuries by the Kalachuri King Yuvrajdev 1. Situated on a hill, it overlooks the Narmada River and offers mesmerising views from the premises. It is a circular temple, with a diameter of around 130 feet, and it has 64 small shrines, each dedicated to one of the yoginis. The main shrine of the temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga, considered to be the chief among the yoginis.

The 64 Yoginis in this temple were a sacred feminine force as an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. This magnificent temple has a very unique design, imagine a circle broken down into 84 equal cells, out of which three serve as gateways. The gateway on the South-West consists of one cell while the one on the South-East consists of two adjoining cells. 

The remaining cells house statues of Yoginis but with the passing of time, some statues have drifted far from their original form. Apart from the 64 Yoginis, the remaining statues include deities like Shiva and Ganesha. Full moon nights are considered auspicious in this temple and devotees can be seen in large gatherings during such occasions.  

Gauri Shankar Temple 

Other than the Yoginis, the Gauri Shankar temple is a major attraction of this destination. As soon as you enter the premises of the shrine, the singular edifice of Gauri Shankar catches your eye. It is also the only temple in India where Shiva and Parvati are sitting on their bull, Nandi. 

It is not only a popular religious destination but also a historical and cultural landmark of Jabalpur. It attracts a large number of tourists and devotees every year, who come to experience the spiritual and cultural significance of this ancient temple.

Nearby Places to Visit 

Since the Chausath Yogini temple is located in the Bhedhaghat village of Jabalpur, there are several tourist attractions that you can visit during this trip. 

Dhuandhar Waterfalls

Dhuandhar waterfalls is where river Narmada leaves the wide bed and falls from a height of 30 feet in a spectacular cascade. The name Dhaundhar in itself means a cloud of smoke, which can be seen at the destination due to the powerful flow of river Narmada.

Bhedaghat Marble Rocks

Soaring in the glittering splendour of marble rocks is another activity that you can be a part of during your visit to Chausath Yogini temple. Here, the river winds in a deep narrow stream flowing silently through high cliffs of magnesium limestone. Boating on the crystal clear water is the most enticing thing to do here. 

Gwarighat

Situated on the banks of holy river Narmada, the Gwarighat is one of the most important and sacred places in Jabalpur. The presence of a half-submerged temple dedicated to Maa Narmada makes this place even more special. Attending the Gwarighat aarti is a treat for your soul. 

How to Reach?

It is located approximately 25 km from Jabalpur city and travelling by road transport is the best option to explore this majestic temple. By flight, Jabalpur Dumna airport is the most convenient destination (Approx. 40 km). Jabalpur airport is directly connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.  

Conclusion

The Chausath Yogini Temple is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the country. It is an important site for researchers and scholars interested in ancient Indian architecture and history. Located on a hilltop, it offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area, including the Narmada River and the Dhuandhar Waterfall. It is also a popular spot for meditation and spiritual practices.