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What will you read in this blog about Chhattisgarh architecture –
- Let’s Begin
- Temples of Chhattisgarh
- Vernacular Architecture of Chhattisgarh
- Traditional Houses of Chhattisgarh
- Modern Architecture of Chhattisgarh
- Places to Visit in Chhattisgarh
- Concluding Lines!
Enjoy reading!
Let’s Begin!
Chhattisgarh, a landlocked state in Central India, is the ninth largest by area and the seventeenth most populous, with approximately 30 million residents. It shares borders with seven states: Uttar Pradesh to the north, Madhya Pradesh to the northwest, Maharashtra to the southwest, Jharkhand to the northeast, Odisha to the east, and Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to the south.

The state boasts the third-largest forest cover in India, after Madhya Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh, with over 40% of its land covered by forests. Historically, the region was known as Dakshina Kosala (South Kosala), the birthplace of Rama’s mother, Kausalya. The name “Chhattisgarh” gained prominence during the Maratha Empire and first appeared in an official document in 1795. Additionally, the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh was historically referred to as Chakrakotya or Cakkarakoṭṭam.
Vernacular Architecture of Chhattisgarh
The vernacular architecture of Chhattisgarh exemplifies a sustainable lifestyle deeply rooted in the region’s tribal traditions and natural resources. Here’s an analysis based on the architectural characteristics observed in Khudargad village:










- Building Materials
Primary Materials: Stone, mud, and timber sourced locally from the surrounding hills and forests.
Wall Construction:
Internal and External Walls:
-Built with stone (450–500mm thick) and finished with mud and cow dung slurry.
-The thickness provides excellent insulation, maintaining cool interiors in Chhattisgarh’s hot and humid climate.
Boundary Walls:
-Prominent stone masonry walls around the plot prevent wild animals from entering the premises.
Flooring:
-Mud floors coated with cow dung slurry for cooling, pest control, and cost-effectiveness.
-Decorative rangoli (rice powder art) is commonly added during festivals or daily rituals. - Roofing
Structure: Sloping roofs made of bamboo or timber.
Covering: Baked clay shingles are the primary roofing material due to their availability, affordability, and ease of replacement.
Ventilation: High roofs (4.5–5m) and attic spaces enable stack ventilation, keeping the interiors cool. - Spatial Planning
House Layout:
-Houses are either rectangular or L-shaped.
-A central courtyard serves as the home’s nucleus, facilitating ventilation, light, and various domestic activities.
-The courtyard often includes a sacred space, reflecting the spiritual ethos of the community.
Rooms and Functions:
-2–3 rooms, a kitchen, and other utility spaces surround the courtyard.
Otla (front verandah):
-A semi-open, uncovered space that acts as an informal seating area.
-A large attic is used for hay storage in winter and ventilation during summer. - Doors and Windows
External Doors: Wooden doors secure the outer walls.
Internal Openings: Simple windows with bamboo or wooden frames and vertical bamboo sections for grills. - Evolution of Vernacular Style
-While traditional homes are constructed with stone, mud, and bamboo, modern influences and new materials have begun altering design practices.
-The original scattered settlement pattern and traditional landscape have been gradually modified over time. - Functional Adaptations
-Houses incorporate animal shelters (gaushalas) within residential premises, reflecting the integration of livestock into daily life.
-Thick walls and mud plaster regulate indoor temperatures, while the courtyard and attic provide multi-functional spaces for community and seasonal needs.








The vernacular architecture of Chhattisgarh, as seen in Khudargad village, demonstrates a harmonious blend of functionality, sustainability, and cultural identity. By relying on locally available materials and adapting to the natural environment, these homes achieve optimal thermal comfort, resource efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Despite modern influences, the core principles of this architecture remain a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the region’s traditional building practices.
Temples of Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh is home to significant centers of art and architecture, including Sirpur, Malhar, Ratanpur, Rajim, and Bhoramdev. These cultural hubs thrived under the rule of the Somvanshi, Panduvanshi, Nagvanshi, and Kalachuri dynasties. The idols of Sirpur, crafted from reddish sandstone, are heavily influenced by Gupta-period sculptures. Distinctive styles emerged during different reigns, such as the rounded faces of Somvanshi statues and the elliptical faces of Kalchuri sculptures.
The Devrani Jethani Temple in Tala, dating back to the 5th century AD, is the oldest in Chhattisgarh. The temples in the region can be categorized into three historical periods:
1. Red Brick Temples (6th to 9th Century AD)

Key examples: Laxman Temple and Ram Mandir in Sirpur, Shabri Temple and Indal Deval in Kharod, and Rajivlochan Temple in Rajim.
-The Laxman Temple of Sirpur stands out for its exquisite architecture. Its outer walls feature intricately carved false windows and Chaityas. The partially developed Shikhar is a transitional design between the Gupta period flat roofs and the tall Shikhars of later periods.
2. Stone Temples of the Kalchuri Period
-Temples were built by rulers from various dynasties, such as the Fani Naga dynasty of Kawardha, the Chakrakot rulers of Bastar, and the Somvanshi dynasty of Kanker.
Notable temples include:
a.Bhoramdev Temple in Kawardha, constructed by King Gopaldev in the Chandela style, was influenced by Khajuraho temples.
b.Madwa Mahal (Dulhadev Temple) in 1349 by King Ramdev.
c.Mama Bhanja Temple, Shiva Temple, and Ganesha Temple in Barsur (Bastar).
d.Danteshwari Temple in Dantewada was built by the Kakatiyas.

-Temples of this era often featured square meeting halls and were built in Panchrath or Saptarath styles. Doorways to the sanctum sanctorum (Garbha Griha) were adorned with carvings of Ganga, Jamuna, floral motifs, and mythical figures, along with depictions of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
-Notably, Chhattisgarh also has rare Sun Temples, such as those in Dipadih and Narayanpur. A fascinating inscription in Akaltara narrates the story of Revant, the Sun God’s son.
3. Post-Kalchuri Temples (Maratha Period)

A few temples were constructed during the Maratha period, such as the Ramtekri Temple in Ratanpur and the Dudhadhari Temple in Raipur.
Traditional Houses of Chhattisgarh



Front Façade and Outdoor Spaces
Bayara: The front façade features an open space called “bayara,” commonly used for outdoor activities.
Roofing: Constructed with bamboo, hay, and clay tiles (khapraels), providing insulation and traditional aesthetics. Slits in the roofing allow proper ventilation.
Verandah and Entrance
-The verandah adjacent to the front door serves multiple purposes such as sitting (baithak) or cooking, with mud flooring for a rustic charm.
-The main entrance door is positioned above ground level to protect from flooding or dust.
Interior Layout
-The house has cement flooring in the courtyard, surrounded by verandahs that double as kitchen and sitting spaces.
-From the verandah, access leads to the kitchen, bedrooms, and other areas.
Courtyard-Centric Design
-A courtyard lies at the heart of the house, acting as the focal point for activities, ventilation, and natural light.
-The courtyard is surrounded by essential rooms, including four bedrooms, a guest room, a drawing room, and three extra rooms.
Gaushala (Cattle Shed)
-Located at the rear, the gaushala is connected to the house via a corridor. It lacks doors but uses bamboo partitions to separate animals and prevent conflicts.
-The flooring is rough for durability, with small windows for light and ventilation.
Functional Elements
Store Rooms: Two store rooms cater to storage needs, connected to functional spaces like the kitchen and gaushala.
Truss and Roofing Materials: Bamboo, mud, and tiles are used in the roofing, ensuring a blend of traditional techniques and climate adaptability.
Planning Highlights
-The house has front and back open spaces for additional activities.
Proximity to Main Road: The house’s location ensures accessibility and ease of movement.
-This design reflects the simplicity, functionality, and harmony with nature that define traditional homes in Chhattisgarh, showcasing their alignment with the region’s culture and climate.
Modern Architecture of Chhattisgarh
House 1: Elegance Meets Functionality

This residence in Chhattisgarh reflects a balance between timeless elegance and modern practicality. Initially designed for a single household, the addition of a first floor to accommodate growing family needs has transformed it into a spacious and inviting home.
Ground Floor Additions and Highlights
Expansion: Three spacious bedrooms have been added, maintaining harmony between modern aesthetics and functionality.
Vibrant Visuals:
First Bedroom: Minimalist and vibrant, designed for the younger son. Features include:
-A curved wall with fine grooves and a dual-coloured lime concrete texture.
-A rust-orange upholstered headboard, paired with rich veneer bedside tables, pendant light, and a table lamp.
-Grey herringbone wooden flooring, accented with a soft grey rug and broadleaf lady palm plant for greenery.
-A modern curved grey sofa, nested black coffee table, and arched floor lamp create a cozy retreat.
Second Bedroom:
-Features a media unit partition with a rotating TV, allowing dual viewing from both the bedroom and the living area.
-Decor includes a grey lime concrete texture on the sofa wall, complemented by green upholstery and fiddle leaf fig plant.
Third Bedroom:
-Designed in soothing lavender tones for the daughters.
-Includes a platform bed concept, ample storage in full-length wardrobes, and a bay window seating area with curved lavender upholstery.
-Playful color-blocking wall design and moldings enhance the room’s aesthetic.
House 2: Sustainability and Community Focus in Raipur

A clubhouse within a 42-acre development in Raipur exemplifies sustainable architecture and thoughtful design.
Architectural Features
-Vastu and Climate-Conscious Planning:
-Villas aligned on an east-west axis to avoid south-facing plots, minimizing heat exposure.
-Roads shaded by the placement of villas, offer relief from Raipur’s intense summers.
Clubhouse Design
Site Integration:
The triangular plot inspired a design comprising two rectangles meeting at 90°, culminating in a circular structure housing a swimming pool, restaurant, and spa.
Materials:
Exterior: Random dry-pack Sadharhalli granite juxtaposed with ribbed corrugated cladding.
Roofing: Terracotta clay tiles provide thermal comfort.
Flooring: Grey terrazzo indoors and river-finished grey Kota stone outdoors.
Ceilings: Polished cement finish.
Interior Design:
-Collaboration with AKFD for custom furniture and lighting, emphasizing natural materials like rattan, banana fiber, and bamboo.
-Upholstery in earthy tones complements the interiors, contrasting the orthogonal architecture.
-In the library, slatted oak screens curve through the space, morphing into bookshelves and seating.
Sustainability and Landscape
-Designed by Balinese landscape architect Dewa Kusuma, the surroundings integrate greenery with the built environment.
-The use of natural sisal rugs, banana fiber lighting, and eco-friendly materials reinforces sustainability.
Places to Visit in Chhattisgarh
Some of the Major Architectural Monuments of Chhattisgarh are:

- Bastar Palace, Jagdalpur: Built during the Kakatiya dynasty, this palace blends indigenous craftsmanship with contemporary design. Its architecture includes hidden passages and intricate details that reflect its royal heritage.
- Rajiv Lochan Temple, Rajim: A Nagara-Dravidian style temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing detailed carvings. Accompanied by Kuleshwar Mahadev and Madwa Mahal, it forms a significant religious and architectural complex.
- Laxman Temple, Sirpur: One of India’s finest brick temples, adorned with intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology. Nearby, Tivari and Gandheswara Temples add to the site’s architectural diversity.
- Bhoramdeo Temple, Kawardha: Known as the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh,” this 7th–11th century temple features intricate carvings blending spiritual and sensual motifs, surrounded by the Maikal hills.
- Kailash and Kutumsar Caves, Kanger Valley: Natural limestone caves with stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. Kutumsar is among Asia’s largest caves, and Kailash Gufa produces musical sounds when struck.
- Ratanpur Fort: A hilltop fort built during the Chalukya dynasty, showcasing ancient royal residences, temples, and bastions with strategic views of the landscape.
- Bambleshwari Temple, Dongargarh: Perched on a hill, this Durga temple features intricate carvings and offers panoramic views. Accessible via 1,000 steps or a ropeway.
- Devrani-Jethani Temple, Tala: Twin Shiva temples with detailed carvings and sculptures, including a colossal RudraShiva statue, reflecting artistic mastery.
- Gadiya Mountain, Kanker: Features royal hideout caves, Jogi Gufa meditation site, and an ever-filled water tank, associated with the Kandra dynasty.
- Kanker Palace: A colonial-style 20th-century palace surrounded by lush greenery, now a heritage hotel offering insights into Chhattisgarh’s regal past.
- Kevalya Dham Jain Temple: Showcases intricate marble carvings and houses a towering 84-foot statue of Lord Adinath, exemplifying Jain artistry.
- Mahamaya Temple, Raipur: A cultural and architectural marvel surrounded by over 150 ponds, attracting devotees, especially during Navratri festivals.

Some of the Famous Places to Visit in Chhattisgarh are:
Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks
Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary
-Spread across 245 sq. km, established in 1976.
-Known for its lush vegetation, flat terrain, and occasional hillocks.
Indravati National Park
-The only tiger reserve in Chhattisgarh.
-Known for its rich wildlife population and proximity to the Indravati River.
Waterfalls
Charre Marre Waterfalls
-16 meters high with pristine water from the Jogidhara River.
-Perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Chitrakote Falls
-The widest waterfall in India, also called the “Niagara of India.”
-Located in Bastar, it plunges 30 meters and spans 985 feet during monsoons.
Tirathgarh Falls
-A multi-stream waterfall located in Kanger Valley National Park.
-Known for its 300-ft drop, scenic beauty, and ecotourism appeal.
Hill Stations
Mainpat
-Known as “Shimla of Chhattisgarh” and “Mini Tibet.”
-Features green pastures, valleys, waterfalls, and Tibetan cultural influences.
Chirmiri
-Referred to as the “Heaven of Chhattisgarh.”
-Famous for its scenic landscapes, coal mines, and temples.
Historic and Archaeological Sites
Madku Dweep
-An island shaped like a frog, located in the Shivnath River.
-Famous for ancient temples, stone inscriptions, and archaeological discoveries.
Dhamtari
-Known for its Chalukya-era temples and folk culture.
-Located along the Mahanadi River and its tributaries.
Malhar
-A prominent archaeological site with remains from 1000 BC.
-Known for Kalachuri dynasty sculptures and ancient monuments.
Bhoramdeo Temple
-A Shiva temple resembling Khajuraho and the Sun Temple at Konark.
-Built between the 7th and 12th centuries with exquisite carvings.
Picturesque Destinations

Dantewada
-A scenic town with rivers, waterfalls, and hill peaks.
-Known for Danteshwari Temple and its connection to Shakti worship.
The Concluding Lines!
Chhattisgarh’s architectural heritage reflects a harmonious blend of nature, history, and culture, offering a glimpse into its rich past and ecological treasures. From the intricate carvings of Bhoramdeo Temple and the archaeological significance of Malhar to the serene landscapes of Madku Dweep, the region celebrates its architectural legacy. The design and placement of temples like Danteshwari and Bhoramdeo showcase a mastery of craftsmanship and devotion. Structures seamlessly integrate with natural surroundings, such as the waterfalls at Tirathgarh and Chitrakote, underscoring sustainable practices in ancient construction. Together, these sites narrate Chhattisgarh’s enduring story of art, spirituality, and environmental synergy.
References
- Wikipedia.org. (n.d.). Chhattisgarh. [online] Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhattisgarh
- Shukla. Alok. (n.d.). Art and Architecture in Chhattisgarh. [online] Available at: https://alokshukla.com/PSC/fPsc.aspx?ccode=41&Lang=NoteEnglish
- Dev. (n.d.). Chhattisgarh Monuments. [online] Available at: https://specialplacesofindia.com/chhattisgarh-monuments/
- archinomy.com. (n.d.). Traditional Houses in Chhattisgarh. [online] Available at: https://www.archinomy.com/case-studies/traditional-house-in-chhatisgarh-india/
- Jagatramka, R., Kumar, A., Pipralia, S., (July 2021). Transformations of Stone Dwellings in Khudargad, Chhattisgarh, India. [online] Available at: https://isvshome.com/pdf/ISVS_8-3/ISVS-8.3.6-Richa_Jagratkumar_Published.pdf
- Staff Writer. (Sept. 02, 2024). Step into this Chhattisgarh residence where elegance and contemporary charm are perfectly entwined. [online] Available at: https://www.architectandinteriorsindia.com/projects/step-into-this-chhattisgarh-residence-where-elegance-and-contemporary-charm-are-perfectly-entwined
- Patel. Parth. (June 22, 2015). Vernacular Architecture of Chhattisgarh. [online] Available at: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/vernacular-architecture-chhattisgarh/49684052
- mpkonnect.com. (Feb. 27, 2024). Revealing the Depths of History: The Most Important Historical Sites in Chhattisgarh. [online] Available at: https://mpkonnect.com/revealing-the-depths-of-history-the-most-important-historical-sites-in-chhattisgarh/
- thrillophilia.com. (n.d.). Historical Places in Chhattisgarh. [online] Available at: https://www.thrillophilia.com/historical-places-in-chhattisgarh
- Nath, Aatish. (Oct. 12, 2024). In Raipur, a clubhouse gets the details right, even as it has an eye on sustainability. [online] Available at: https://www.architecturaldigest.in/story/in-raipur-a-clubhouse-gets-the-details-right-even-as-it-has-an-eye-on-sustainability/
- holidify.com. (n.d.). Top Destinations Places to Visit. [online] Available at: https://www.holidify.com/state/chattisgarh/top-destinations-places-to-visit.html