The short answer
Nohleshwar Temple, Nohta: what visitors should know first
A short, rewarding stop for temple architecture. It is about 21-24 km from Damoh on the Jabalpur road, and combines easily with Singorgarh or Nidan on the same side of the district.
History and context
The story behind Nohleshwar Temple, Nohta
Sources place the temple in the medieval period, most commonly attributing it to about the 10th century. The village once had other Hindu and Jain temples, none of which survive.
Useful facts
Nohleshwar Temple, Nohta facts at a glance
- Location
- Nohta, about 21-24 km from Damoh
- Faith
- Hinduism
- Deity/dedication
- Shiva (Nohleshwar, Mahadeva)
- Visitor note
- Remove footwear; modest dress
- Built
- Medieval, often given as 10th century
Why it matters
Why Nohleshwar Temple, Nohta is worth your time
Nohleshwar is the only one of the village's former Hindu and Jain temples that still stands. That makes it a rare survivor and a useful sample of medieval temple building in the Damoh region.
The temple is commonly attributed to the 10th century, though sources vary, and its carving gives a clear sense of the craft traditions of central India in that era. For travellers, it is a quick, easy stop on a longer day.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Carved pillars
The sandstone pillars and panels carry fine sculpture.
- 02
Sole survivor
It is the only old temple left in Nohta.
- 03
Easy stop
A quick visit on the Jabalpur road.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Nohta lies on the Jabalpur road, so fit it in on the way to or from Singorgarh. The Nohleshwar temple, also called the Mahadeva temple, is a Shiva shrine of sandstone with carved pillars and sculpted panels. Walk around the exterior first, and look at the sculpture on the walls and the carved doorway before going in.
The temple is still used for worship, so keep voices low and remove footwear. Early morning is calm, and light on the stone is soft. Photography of the exterior is usually fine, but ask before photographing the sanctum or worshippers.
The visit is brief, so treat it as a stop rather than a destination. Pair it with a cup of tea in the village and continue on your route.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Remove footwear and dress modestly
- Ask before photographing worshippers
- Visit in the morning
- Combine with other sights on the Jabalpur road
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Nohta, about 21-24 km south-east of Damoh
- Time needed
- 45-60 minutes
- Best time
- Morning; October to March
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The site is largely level with a short walk from the road. There is limited seating and shade, but the distances are small and it suits most older visitors.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is reported to be free. Temple hours are not officially published; reported timings run from early morning to evening, so confirm locally. Dress modestly and remove footwear.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Nohleshwar Temple, Nohta
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The site is largely level with a short walk from the road. There is limited seating and shade, but the distances are small and it suits most older visitors.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is Nohta from Damoh?
About 21-24 km south-east.
Is it still a place of worship?
Yes, it is an active Shiva temple.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry is reported to be free.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
