The Dudhadhari Math temple complex sits in the old Purani Basti quarter of Raipur and is the most architecturally interesting religious site in the city. The main temple is dedicated to Ram and Lakshman, and the carved panels on the exterior walls — depicting scenes from the epics and decorative floral motifs — repay close attention. The math also includes a collection of stone sculptures gathered from the surrounding area. The complex is active and draws a steady flow of devotees, particularly in the early morning and at dusk. It's easy to combine with the nearby Mahamaya Temple and a wander through the surrounding old town lanes.
Dudhadhari Math
17th-century temple complex with notable carved stone work
A story
The name Dudhadhari means 'one who subsists on milk' — the title of the ascetic saint Madhavdas who established the math in the early seventeenth century after reportedly surviving for years on nothing but milk and water. The temple complex he founded became one of the most important Vaishnava centres in the region, and its carved exterior panels are among the finest examples of decorative stonework in Chhattisgarh.