Chaiturgarh
| Chaiturgarh fort | |
|---|---|
Lafagarh | |
| Part of Chhattisgarh Forts | |
| Korba district, Chhattisgarh | |
| Site information | |
| Type | Hill fort / natural fortification |
| Owner | Central Archeological Department of India |
| Condition | Protected ruins |
| Location | |
Chaiturgarh fort Location of Chaiturgarh in India | |
| Coordinates | 22°30′37″N 82°16′17″E / 22.5103°N 82.2714°E |
| Height | 3,060 feet (930 m) |
| Site history | |
| Built | 10th century CE |
| Built by | Raja Prithvideva I |
| In use | Temple and tourism |
Chaiturgarh or Lafagarh is a fort about 51 kilometres (32 mi) from Katghora tehsil, Korba district, Chhattisgarh, India, on the Korba–Bilaspur road. It is an Archaeological Survey of India protected monument. Chaiturgarh is one of the 36 forts of Chhattisgarh. Chaithurgarh is situated around 70 kilometres (43 mi) from Korba and 21 kilometres (13 mi) from Pali town. It is situated at an elevation of over 3,060 feet (934 meters) above sea level, in the Satpura Range and forms part of the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve. Known for its natural defenses and panoramic views, Chaiturgarh combines historical significance with ecological importance.
The fort was likely developed in its recognizable form during the 10th century CE under the Kalachuri dynasty, although the site shows signs of earlier occupation. With formidable cliffs on all sides, Chaiturgarh is often described as a "natural fort", relying on its geographic location more than constructed defenses. The fort is also home to several temples, caves, and man-made ponds, and it has long been a pilgrimage destination for worshipers of Mahishasur Mardini. In recent years, the fort has attracted archaeological interest and ecotourism initiatives but remains relatively under-researched compared to better-known Indian forts.