Ganesh Chaturthi 2025︱Imagine trekking through a dense forest, gasping up a steep hill, only to find Lord Ganesha calmly waiting for you at the summit—perched on a boulder like he’s been people-watching from 3,000 feet above for nearly a thousand years. That’s Dholkal Ganesha for you: part shrine, part archaeological riddle, and part adventure reward. This 11th-century stone idol has survived time, terrain, and even a mysterious tumble down the hill, only to be restored to its lofty seat.
High up in the almost-impenetrable forests of Chhattisgarh, sits a little-known wonder—the Dholkal Ganesha idol. Tucked away in Dantewada district, around 350 kilometres from Raipur, this granite idol of Lord Ganesha remained hidden from the world for centuries until its rediscovery in 2012. Shrouded by dense Bastar jungles, the site remained forgotten for centuries until its rediscovery in 2012 by a local journalist. Interestingly, the site had first been documented back in 1934 by English geologist Crookshank during his survey of the Bailadila mines, but its remoteness kept it out of public memory.
Local lore ties the site to a fierce mythical duel between Lord Ganesha and sage Parashurama, where the latter struck Ganesha with his axe (farsa). The nearby village of Faraspal is said to take its name from this legend. It is said that in the duel Ganesha lost his tooth, though who triumphed remains a mystery. To commemorate the mythical battle, the Nagvanshi rulers of the 11th century placed a granite idol of Lord Ganesha at the hilltop. Visitors trekking up to Dholkal still pass through Faraspal, where a small temple of Lord Parashurama stands as a reminder of this legend.
Weighing around 500 kilogrammes and standing 2.5 to 3 feet tall, the idol was carved from a single block of stone in the form of a dholak, the classical drum from which the hill derives its name. The image shows Ganesha seated in his playful, relaxed lalitasana posture, gazing out over the wilderness. The idol stands uncovered under the open sky, with no temple roof guarding it. What makes this Ganesha unique are the details: a serpent, or Sheha Nag, carved across the stomach, and shackles in place of the traditional janeu (sacred thread). Experts suggest these rare features symbolise the rise of the Chhindak Nagvanshi dynasty, giving the idol a distinction unmatched anywhere else in the world.
The trek to Dholkal is as rewarding as the shrine itself. The path winds through forest trails perfumed by wild jasmine (mogra), past towering anthills known locally as dengur or bambi. Trekkers also encounter a small natural spring, called doh or khassa, which serves as a vital water source for wild animals in the area. Along the route stand traces of two other ancient temples—one dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, and another to Devi Mata. Though these shrines have largely vanished, remnants remain.
For the indigenous tribal communities, Dholkal is not just a trekker’s prize but a living place of worship. Local lore adds further layers to the mystery. The Bhogami tribals of south Bastar trace their lineage to a woman priest of Dholkatta Dholkal, and to this day they continue to worship the mountaintop idol. Another legend speaks of a Bhogami woman who once offered prayers to Ganesha here; villagers of Faraspal claimed they could hear the echo of her conch, blown from the heights, reverberating through their homes. The idol is revered throughout the year, and every Magha (January–February), a special fair is held on the hilltop, drawing villagers and pilgrims in celebration.
In 2017, tragedy struck when the Dholkal Ganesha was discovered broken into pieces. The Bastar Police launched an operation to recover the fragments scattered across the Maoist-dominated foothills. Investigators alleged that Maoists were behind the act, aiming to stall the region’s economic progress and deter visitors, especially after the state government announced a Rs 2 crore plan to develop the site into a tourist destination. Eventually, the idol was restored by the Archaeological Survey of India and reinstated at its hilltop perch, where it was re-consecrated with local rituals.
The journey to Dholkal begins in the quaint village of Faraspal, a short two-hour drive from Jagdalpur. From there, a 7-kilometre trek through dense forest takes you up the slopes and, in the final 150–200 metres, a patch of steep rock-climbing that requires caution. Enlisting a trained local guide is essential— both for safety and for helping you stay on track through the maze of forest paths.
For the best experience, avoid the monsoon when slippery paths increase the risk; and skip the scorching heat of late spring and early summer, which can make the climb grueling. Winter (December through February) offers crisp weather, clear skies, and a more tranquil trek.
1. Where is the Dholkal Ganesha temple located?
The Dholkal Ganesha idol is located in Dantewada district, Chhattisgarh, atop Dholkal hill at an altitude of around 3,000 feet.
2. Why is Dholkal Ganesha famous?
It is a 1,000-year-old granite idol of Lord Ganesha with unique features like a serpent across its stomach and shackles as sacred thread, linked to the Nagvanshi dynasty.
3. How can I reach Dholkal Ganesha?
You can reach Faraspal village from Jagdalpur by road, and then trek about 7 km through dense forests to reach the idol.
4. What is the best time to visit Dholkal Ganesha?
The best time is winter (December–February) when the weather is cool and the trek is safer. Avoid the monsoon season due to slippery paths.
5. Can I visit Dholkal Ganesha during Ganesh Chaturthi 2025?
Yes, Ganesh Chaturthi is an ideal time to visit as the site sees special rituals and draws devotees for celebrations amid a serene setting.