The enormous temple of Surang Tila was unearthed in 2005-06.
The temple premises covers a vast area and the main temple stands tall,
elevated by a flight of 37 steep limestone steps. It is believed to have been
hit by a devastating earthquake around the 12th century AD, and the steps still
bear the visual repercussions of this calamity.
The temple was built by Mahasivagupta Balarjun in seventh
century AD and has been constructed in the panchayatan style of temple
architecture, with the main temple in the centre and four temples in the
corner.
The main temple has five sanctums, four of which had four
different types of Shiva lingas for worship, respectively coloured white, red,
yellow and black. The remaining sanctum contains a Ganesh idol. The 32-pillared
mandapa holds these five sanctums.
The complex area has three tantric temples in a platform,
dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The entry gate was believed to be
located near the river flowing adjacent to the temple. This was a practice that
was started in the temples of Sirpur, and thereafter, spread to other parts of
the country.
As compared to the
much-flogged modern tourism, sirpur offers a peaceful environment.
How to reach
Nearest airport is Raipur with 70 km. Nearest railway
station is Mahasamund on the Raipur- Waltair Railway line with 65 km. CSRTC
Buses, taxis and private vehicles are available from Raipur and Mahasamund.
Book your Sirpur holidays with our
affiliate partner Booking.com
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