Vidarbha holds a distinct place not just in terms of its geography or politics but also through the religious and architectural structures that still stand across its terrain. Among the varied temples scattered across the region, a handful possess strong historical and archaeological backing, verified through inscriptions, records from the Archaeological Survey of India, and recognised scholarly sources.

These temples are not just local landmarks but critical evidence of the artistic, spiritual, and political lives that shaped Vidarbha across centuries. Built during periods of intense cultural activity, some of these structures trace their origins as far back as the 5th century. Their architecture, iconography, and layout offer a glimpse into the transitions from early rock-cut sanctuaries to later stone-built temples. What makes them distinct is not just their age or religious value but their role in mapping Vidarbha's historical continuity through stone.

This article presents six temples in Vidarbha with strong verifiable foundations, each confirmed through reputable documentation and official heritage listings. Their survival adds weight to the larger conversation around conservation and historical recognition in this underreported region.

1. Rudra Narasimha Temple, Ramtek (Nagpur District)

The Rudra Narasimha Temple in Ramtek is one of Maharashtra's oldest surviving stone temples. Believed to be constructed during the early 5th century CE under the patronage of the Vakataka queen Prabhavatigupta, it marks the evolution of Hindu temple architecture in western India. The structure is located atop Ramtek Hill and is carved from black basalt stone. While parts of the original temple are now ruined, the remaining sanctum and sculptures show traces of Gupta and Vakataka stylistic features. It is dedicated to Vishnu in his Narasimha form and remains an active place of worship.

The location of the temple is historically associated with Kalidasa, who is believed to have visited this region. It is officially listed as a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India under their Nagpur Circle.

2. Trivikrama Temple, Ramtek (Nagpur District)

Close to the Rudra Narasimha Temple lies another structure from the same period, the Trivikrama Temple. Also dated to the early 5th century CE, this temple is notable for being among the earliest surviving examples of a Vaishnava shrine in Maharashtra. It was built during the same Vakataka rule and features iconography that includes depictions of Vishnu’s Trivikrama form. Inscriptions found at Ramtek confirm the political and religious patronage of the Vakatakas and the presence of Gupta influence in the region.

The temple’s plan and sculptural style are consistent with early classical Indian temple layouts. Though it remains lesser known to casual visitors, archaeologists have recognised it for its architectural significance. The temple is also officially recognised and protected by the ASI and retains its core sanctum structure despite centuries of wear.

3. Markanda Mahadev Temple, Chamorshi (Gadchiroli District)

The Markanda Mahadev Temple complex is located on the banks of the Wainganga River near the town of Chamorshi in Gadchiroli district. Often referred to as the “Khajuraho of Vidarbha,” the temple is believed to have been built between the 8th and 12th centuries CE. Its architectural style reflects the influence of the Rashtrakuta dynasty and subsequent local rulers. The temple complex includes multiple smaller shrines arranged around the main Shiva temple. Detailed carvings adorn the outer walls, and many panels depict scenes from Shaivite mythology.

Despite occasional seasonal flooding, the structure has been well-preserved and remains one of the most archaeologically significant temples in southern Vidarbha. Its religious association with sage Markandeya adds another layer of cultural significance. The Archaeological Survey of India has taken active interest in the temple, recognising it as a site of national heritage importance.

4. Kevala Narasimha Temple, Ramtek (Nagpur District)

Another early Vaishnavite shrine at Ramtek is the Kevala Narasimha Temple, dating back to the 5th century CE. It was also constructed during the Vakataka dynasty and shares architectural elements with the Rudra Narasimha and Trivikrama temples. Located close to the other temples on Ramtek Hill, the Kevala Narasimha shrine houses a prominent idol of Narasimha and contains inscriptions in Gupta script. The temple plan reflects a pre-panchayatana layout with a simple sanctum and mandapa, characteristic of early classical temple architecture. It has been studied extensively by archaeologists for its sculptural details and site layout, providing evidence of a thriving centre of Vaishnavite worship in ancient Vidarbha.

As with other structures in Ramtek, this temple is also protected under the ASI and continues to be a site of annual pilgrimage and research.

5. Shantinatha Jain Temple, Ramtek (Nagpur District)

The Shantinatha Jain Temple, located at the base of Ramtek Hill, represents the medieval religious diversity of Vidarbha. Believed to have been built during the 11th to 12th century CE, this temple is dedicated to the 16th Jain Tirthankara, Shantinatha. The temple complex includes marble idols and intricately carved stone panels, typical of Jain religious architecture. It is currently maintained by the Digambara Jain community and is considered one of the Atishaya Kshetras of Maharashtra. Historical records and architectural features suggest that it may have received patronage during the Yadava period. The site holds religious events and attracts Jain pilgrims from various districts in Vidarbha and beyond.

Its historical and religious credentials are further supported by Jain community documentation and inclusion in national pilgrimage directories. The temple is under the protection of the ASI and continues to be an active centre of religious activity.

6. Bhandak Caves (Brahmanical and Buddhist), Chandrapur District

The rock-cut cave complex near Bhandak (ancient Bhadravati) in Chandrapur district features some of the earliest examples of Brahmanical cave temples in Vidarbha. These caves, dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries CE, are believed to have started as Buddhist monasteries before transitioning into Hindu religious spaces. Cave 1 contains a notable sculpture of Ardhanarishvara, while other caves include depictions of Varaha and other deities. The site reflects the transition in patronage from Buddhist to Hindu during early medieval India.

These caves have been documented in ASI reports and featured in archaeological journals for their contribution to early Indian rock-cut architecture. Located near industrial areas today, the site remains underexplored by tourists but is important in archaeological circles. Their religious syncretism and architectural evolution mark them as a crucial heritage site for the region.

The temples featured in this article stand on solid historical and archaeological ground. They represent different phases of temple development in Vidarbha, from early Gupta-Vakataka influences to later Rashtrakuta and Yadava styles. These structures are not only vital to the study of Indian temple architecture but also help trace the religious and cultural shifts that occurred across centuries in this region.

Their documentation by the Archaeological Survey of India and scholarly recognition adds weight to their inclusion as sites of national importance. Vidarbha continues to be a landscape where historical inquiry and local devotion intersect, and these temples provide some of the clearest starting points for understanding that connection.