Sutiyapat Dam & Maa Hinglaj Bhawani Dham
Complete guide to Sutiyapat Dam near Sutiyapath village in Sahaspur Lohara, Kabirdham (approx. 65 km from Kawardha). Enjoy mountain views, reservoir waters, Maa Hinglaj Bhawani cave shrine & picnic tips.
Sutiyapat Dam & Mandir (also known locally as Sutiyapath Bandh or Maa Sutiyapat Dham) is a major water reservoir and revered spiritual sanctuary situated near Sutiyapath village in the Sahaspur Lohara block of Kabirdham district.
Perched atop a scenic 2,500-foot-high hill surrounded by deep forests and the Maikal range, Sutiyapath Mandir is a sacred cave temple dedicated to Maa Hinglaj Bhawani. The hill features four natural rock caves that have been revered by ascetics and devotees for generations. Below the holy hill, the expansive waters of Sutiyapat Dam provide a calm spot for nature outings.
Quick Facts & Overview
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Sutiyapat Dam & Maa Hinglaj Mandir (सुतियापाट डैम एवं मंदिर) |
| Temple Setting | Cave temple on a 2,500-foot-high hill (4 natural caves) |
| Deity | Maa Hinglaj Bhawani |
| Tehsil / Block | Sahaspur Lohara, Kabirdham District, Chhattisgarh |
| Nearest Village | Sutiyapath Village (near Junwani / Lakhatola) |
| Distance from Kawardha | ~65 km southwest via Sahaspur Lohara route |
| Distance from Sahaspur Lohara | ~35 – 40 km into the foothill forest belt |
| Distance from Rajnandgaon | ~75 km via Khairagarh / Lohara |
| Key Attractions | 2,500-ft hill cave shrine darshan, panoramic reservoir views, forest trails, photography |
| Entry Fee | Free entry |
| Best Season | October to February (Pleasant post-monsoon climate and full reservoir levels) |
Highlights & Visitor Information
- Maa Hinglaj Bhawani Cave Shrine: Devotees climb the 2,500-foot hill to offer prayers at the cave temple dedicated to Maa Hinglaj Bhawani. The hill is known for housing four natural caves, attracting heavy footfalls during Chaitra and Sharadiya Navratri festivals.
- Scenic Water Expanse: Below the hills, the catchment area spreads wide against the green backdrop of the Maikal mountains, providing stunning photography opportunities during early mornings and golden sunsets.
- Picnics & Nature Trails: A favorite nature outing spot for families and youths seeking quiet, untouched nature. Tip: Carry your own drinking water and snacks, as commercial food stalls are minimal in the forest area.
How to Reach Sutiyapat Dam
- From Kawardha (District HQ): Take the Kawardha – Sahaspur Lohara route, proceeding through the rural forest corridor towards Sutiyapath village and the reservoir (~65 km total).
- From Rajnandgaon / Khairagarh: Connect via the Khairagarh – Sahaspur Lohara road heading towards the foothills.
- From Raipur: Approx. 130–140 km via Bemetara / Kawardha or Gandai – Sahaspur Lohara.
Known For & Highlights
- Expansive irrigation reservoir located along the base of the southern Maikal hill range
- Sutiyapath Mandir — sacred cave temple dedicated to Maa Hinglaj Bhawani perched on a 2,500-foot-high hill
- Four mysterious natural hill caves and ancient spiritual pilgrimage center
- Serene natural eco-tourism and family weekend picnic destination surrounded by lush forests
- Clear reflections of forested hill ridges on the wide water expanse
