Malhar is Chhattisgarh’s most historic town and is of utmost archaeological prominence. Its outstanding sculptures and ancient charm has bagged a spot for this town on the ‘Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains of National Importance’ list that is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Few of the remains found in Malhar date back to 1000 century BC and are attributed to the Kalchuri regime.
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How to Reach Malhar
The nearest airport to Malhar is the Swami Vivekanand Airport in Raipur, at a distance of 148 km. The nearest railway station is in Bilaspur at a distance of only 33 km. There are taxis and buses available from Bilaspur to Malhar.
Major Attractions in Malhar
Several ancient temples have also been unearthed, namely the Pataleshvar Temple, Devi Temple, and the Dindeshwari Temple. The Pataleshvar Temple is the main attraction of this town. The temple structure is presently under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India. Major renovation and repair activities had taken place in the temple. It was constructed on a high raised platform and entrances having been provided from three sides. The sanctum is situated below the ground floor and hence the name of the temple. The doorway of the sanctum flaunts life-size statues of river goddesses and dvarpalas. The sanctum has a Shiva linga in it, with an open Nandi mandapa constructed in front of the temple.
Jain religious memorials have also been excavated here. Malhar also has a museum that is managed by the Government of India. It displays a good collection of sculptures that were discovered in this region.