Nava Toran Temple, also known as the Chausath Yogini Temple, is a historic temple in the city of Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali and is known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings.
Built-in the 10th century AD, the Nava Toran Temple is one of India's few surviving temples. The temple is built in a circle and surrounded by 64 small shrines, each housing a statue of a yogini or female attendant of Kali. These statues are believed to represent the 64 Yoginis, a group of powerful goddesses associated with tantric practices.
The main temple is in the circle's centre and is built on a raised platform. The temple is made of sandstone and features intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including the battle between Rama and Ravana, the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, and the life of Krishna.
One of the most striking features of the Nava Toran Temple is its elaborate entrance, which is adorned with nine toranas, or arched gateways, each featuring a different deity. These toranas are considered one of India's earliest examples of torana architecture.
Visitors to the Nava Toran Temple can also explore the surrounding area, home to several other historic temples and monuments. One of the most notable is the Madan Mahal Fort, a 17th-century fort built by the Gond rulers of Jabalpur. The defence offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for picnics and sightseeing.
Places To Visit In Madhya Pradesh Near Nava Toran Temple:
Located about 3 km from the Nava Toran Temple, the Madan Mahal Fort is a popular tourist destination in Jabalpur. The fort was built in the 16th century by the Gond rulers of Jabalpur, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Situated about 6 km from the Nava Toran Temple, the Rani Durgavati Museum is dedicated to the memory of Rani Durgavati, a warrior queen of the Gond dynasty who fought against the Mughals. The museum displays a collection of artefacts related to the history and culture of Jabalpur and the surrounding regions.
Located about 24 km from the Nava Toran Temple, the Bhedaghat Marble Rocks are a popular natural attraction in Madhya Pradesh. The rocks are made of marble and tower over the Narmada River, creating a stunning landscape. Visitors can take a boat ride along the river to admire the beauty of the rocks.
Situated about 10 km from the Nava Toran Temple, the Dumna Nature Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary home to several species of animals, including tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. Visitors can go on a safari to explore the reserve and observe the wildlife.
Located about 20 km from the Nava Toran Temple, Tilwara Ghat is a historic site that played a significant role in India's struggle for independence. Here, Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed in the Narmada River. The site also memorialises the Indian freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country.