Tucked away in the lush, untouched forests of Dantewada in Chhattisgarh, the Dholkal Ganesh Temple rises like a guardian of time and legend. Perched dramatically at 3,000 feet above sea level atop the Dholkal hill, this sacred site is more than just a pilgrimage spot — it is a portal into India’s rich mythological and spiritual legacy.

The temple houses a centuries-old idol of Lord Ganesh, believed to be sculpted over 1,000 years ago by the Chindak Nagavanshi kings. What makes this idol truly captivating is not just its age or artistry, but the legend it embodies.

According to local lore, this very hill was once the battleground for an epic face-off between Lord Ganesh and Lord Parshuram — a clash so intense that the nearby village came to be known as 'Farsapal', a name derived from ‘Farsa’ (axe). The mystery of who emerged victorious adds to the air of divine enigma that surrounds the site.

The idol itself — modest in height at 2.5 to 3 feet — is carved from stone and shaped strikingly like a dholak drum, earning the hill its name ‘Dholkal’. Lord Ganesh is depicted in a serene seated pose, radiating peace amidst the wild surroundings.

Devotees trek through rugged forest trails to reach this temple, especially during the month of Magha, when a vibrant local fair transforms the mountaintop into a celebration of faith and folklore. In silence and in story, Dholkal continues to echo with devotion, mystery, and the timeless rhythm of tradition.