The short answer
Chausath Yogini Temple, Mitaoli: what visitors should know first
Yes if you can climb about 100 steps to the entrance. Go in the morning or late afternoon, take your own water, and combine it with Bateshwar on the same outing.
History and context
The story behind Chausath Yogini Temple, Mitaoli
The temple was built in the 11th century during the reign of Devapala of the Kachchhapaghata dynasty, according to an inscription dated 1323 CE. The Archaeological Survey of India declared it a protected monument under the Act of 1951. The circular wall holds 65 chambers, apparently for the 64 yoginis and the goddess Devi.
Useful facts
Chausath Yogini Temple, Mitaoli facts at a glance
- Location
- Mitaoli village, Morena district
- Experience type
- Hilltop temple visit
- Known for
- Circular plan, 65 chambers, link to Parliament House
- Built
- 11th century, under Devapala (Kachchhapaghata dynasty)
- Access
- About 100 steps to the entrance
- Time or schedule
- No published hours; go in the morning
Why it matters
Why Chausath Yogini Temple, Mitaoli is worth your time
The temple is widely cited as an inspiration for the circular plan of India's Parliament House, which has made it known well beyond Morena. Whether or not that link interests you, it is a rare surviving example of a Chausath Yogini temple, a type of open circular shrine linked to the cult of the sixty-four yoginis.
Its survival over centuries on an exposed hilltop also speaks to the quality of its construction. It adds an architectural and religious dimension to a trip otherwise focused on forts and river wildlife.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The circular plan
A ring of chambers around an open Shiva pavilion is the temple's signature.
- 02
Hilltop views
The climb is rewarded with views over the village and fields.
- 03
Rainwater drainage
Flat roofs drain to an underground tank, a clever piece of planning.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The temple is a perfectly circular enclosure on a hilltop, open to the sky, and the experience is mostly about the geometry. Climb the steps early or late in the day, when the stone is not too hot, and walk along the inner ring of small chambers, each of which now holds a Shiva image. At the centre stands an open pillared pavilion dedicated to Shiva.
The outer wall once carried statues, most now lost or damaged. Notice the flat roofs and the drainage system that carried rainwater to an underground tank, a detail that shows how carefully the builders planned. The view from the hilltop over Mitaoli village and the surrounding fields is a good reason for a pause.
The temple is quiet and the site is small, so a visit takes about an hour. Pair it with Bateshwar for a day of Chambal-valley temples, going with a car and driver.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Be ready to climb about 100 steps
- Go in the morning or late afternoon for cooler stone
- Remove footwear inside
- Take water; there are few facilities
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Mitaoli village, Morena district
- Time needed
- 1-1.5 hours
- Best time
- October to March; morning or late afternoon
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- Reaching the entrance means climbing about 100 steps up a hill, with few handrails and no seating at the top. Visitors who cannot manage the steps will not get inside.
- Tickets and access
- The temple is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. Fees and hours are not published here; ask the caretaker or check locally. Footwear is usually removed inside.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Chausath Yogini Temple, Mitaoli
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Reaching the entrance means climbing about 100 steps up a hill, with few handrails and no seating at the top. Visitors who cannot manage the steps will not get inside.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How old is the temple?
It dates from the 11th century, under the Kachchhapaghata ruler Devapala.
Is it really the model for Parliament House?
It is widely said to have inspired it. The temple's circular plan is the basis of that claim.
Can seniors visit?
Only if they can manage about 100 steps without handrails; otherwise the exterior views will have to do.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
