Located in Neri village of Chimur Taluka, Chandrapur District, the Mahadev and Parvati Mata Temples are among the most remarkable examples of ancient temple architecture in Vidarbha. Dating back to the 12th–13th century, these temples reflect the spiritual and artistic grandeur of medieval Maharashtra. Neri is situated on the Chimur–Navargaon Road, around 9 km from Chimur town and approximately 112 km from Chandrapur city.

The Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an architectural gem built in the Hemadpanti style with traces of Chalukyan influence. Its structure comprises a mukhamandap (entrance hall), ardhamandap (porch), sabhamandap (assembly hall), antaral (vestibule), and garbhagriha (sanctum). The temple rests on an elevated stone platform and features beautifully carved pillars, arches, and sculptures depicting Hindu deities such as Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Parvati, Saraswati, Hanuman, and Nataraja. Mythological scenes like Arjuna’s archery, musical performances, apsaras, and even artistic erotic carvings adorn the outer walls, giving the temple an expressive aesthetic similar to those seen in Khajuraho and Markandeya temples.

Inside the sanctum, a Shivlinga is installed, accompanied by images of Annapurna Devi, Lord Ganesha, and serpent motifs on the inner walls. The temple’s entrance doorway is richly carved, and its roof and shikhara have undergone careful restoration. The arrangement of pillars in the mandapa allows sunlight to illuminate the inner sanctum during morning hours, symbolizing the divine connection between light and faith. The temple is protected by the Archaeological Department, with fencing and stone flooring added for preservation. It remains open for devotees daily from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Just 100 meters away, the Parvati Mata Temple adds to Neri’s religious significance. The black stone idol of Goddess Parvati was discovered here during excavation and was later consecrated in 1965 by Rashtrasant Tukdoji Maharaj. The idol, about 2 feet 4 inches tall, depicts Parvati with four arms holding a lotus with a Shivlinga, a small Ganesha figure, a rosary, and a kamandalu. A lion sits at her feet, and a peacock-mounted Kartikeya is carved above, signifying divine motherhood and power. Every year, Navratri is celebrated grandly at this temple, attracting large gatherings of devotees