Laxman Temple in Sirpur (77km from Raipur), is situated on the banks of the river Mahanadi. The temple is believed to have been built around the 7th century and is one of the finest brick temples in India. It is characterized by the precise nature of construction as also by the exquisite carvings adorning the temple. The top of the entrance depicts Sheshnag serving as an umbrella to Lord Shiva while the sides are adorned with incarnations of Lord Vishnu, Krishna Leela ornamental symbols and erotic carvings. It belongs to the category of Panchrath type temples wherein the religious segments of a temple - Vatayan, Chitya Gawaksha, Bharwahakgana, Aja, Kirtimukh and Karna Amalak- are engraved on the pillars. The inside has the Mandap (shelter), Antraal (passage) and Garbha Grih (the main house). The temple holds the dual status of being a place of worship as well as an important archaeological site. The Archaeological Survey of India has conducted extensive excavation and restoration work here and maintains a museum of the artifacts collected.