Carved Out Of Madhya Pradesh: Chhattisgarh
One of the most ethnic states of India, Chhatisgarh offers to every traveller an insight into green trails and wildlife. Located in the southern part of India, Chhattisgarh offers ample opportunity to explore and seek adventure. Not just this, Chhattisgarh is known for hosting numerous temples that leave many spiritual and inquisitive souls in awe. As the temples of the state possess ancientness, many historians and archaeologists choose to visit them. The most lauded aspect of Chhattisgarh is its tribes. The tribal culture has been present since the ancient times, some around 10,000 years old and features numerous diverse tribe such as the Gonds, Abhuj Maria, Bison Horn Maria, Halba and Dhurvaa. The tribes can be easily spotted through their bright headdresses, clothing, wooden bangles, metal casts and ghungroos. Many tribes feature cockfights and dances too. Some of the popular dances include the Karma, Sua Nacha, Pandavani, Raut Nacha, Panthi Dance and Jhirliti. ALowly Chhattisgarh is gaining attention from tourists for its waterfalls, temples, monuments, forests, history, traditions, flora and fauna.
1. Jagdalpur
Located in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh is the beautiful city of Jagdalpur. Known to be one of the most popular cities, Jagdalpur is surrounded by many nature’s phenomenons such as national parks, lakes, waterfalls, forests, caves and more. Not just that, the place is known for its great tribal presence. If you wish to explore the tribal aspect then you should surely visit the villages of Jagdalpur as a majority of Adivasis have inhabited it for years. Jagdalpur has also been featured in the Hindu epic Ramayana. During their fourteen-year exile period, Lord Rama passes through the Dandakaranya forests.
Chitradhara Waterfalls
The Chitradhara Waterfalls are one of the most popular waterfalls of the southern region of India. The waterfall is famous for being shaped like a horseshoe. Located in the Potanar village, the waterfalls provide a serene atmosphere that is perfect for picnics. The waterfalls receive their source of water from the River Indravati. It is also regarded as one of the popular eco-tourism sites in Chhattisgarh.
Bastar Palace
The stunning Bastar Palace is regarded as the most important heritage site of Jagdalpur. The historical monument boasts of some stunning art and architecture. Intricate detailing and carvings feature on the palace’s wall and ceilings that houses various artefacts and figures.
Ganga Munda Talab
The Ganga Munda Talab of Jagdalpur is regarded as one of the most serene picturesque locations around. Lying amidst Bastar, tourists enjoy choosing to sail on a boat to further enjoy its scenic surroundings. Tourists also choose further enjoy its shores by laying out a picnic for themselves. There also many water sport activities that are conducted at the Ganga Munda Talab.
How to reach?
Air
The nearest airport to Jagdalpur is the Vishakapatnam airport. From there, the city is seven hours away.
Rail
Jagdalpur is well-connected via railways in major cities of India.
Road
Regular bus services connect many cities to Jagdalpur. You also choose to board a cab from neighbouring spots such as Madpal, Dhanpunji, Kotapad and more.
2. Raipur
The capital of the state of Chhattisgarh, Raipur is also regarded as the largest city. The city has been known for being the largest industrial centres of the country. It is also home to the aluminium and coal industries. Apart from that Raipur also has a rich history. Till the year 2000, Chhatisgarh was an essential part of the Madhya Pradesh state. It was only after becoming a state that Raipur was regarded as its capital. Raipur is also famous for hosting some of the most celebrated festivals such as Hareli, Champaran Mela, Pola and Teja.
Ghatarani Waterfalls
The Ghatarani Waterfalls are the largest falls in the state of Chattisgarh. The spot is surrounded by lush green fields, making it an apt spot for spending an evening. The falls are frequently visited by locals of Raipur on weekends. To reach the waterfalls you will have to go through a small forest. The water of the falls forms a small lake that is ideal for a swim.
Nandan Van Zoo
Located in Naya Raipur, is the Nandan Van Zoo. One of the most famous places to visit in Raipur, the zoo was founded to safeguard and protect the animals of India. Also surrounded by bundles of flora, many people love to opt for a jungle safari for a better experience.
Purkhauti Muktangan
The Purkhauti Muktangan in Raipur is one of the most popular gardens of Chhattisgarh. It was inaugurated by the former President of India, Shri APJ Abdul Kalam in November 2006. If you wish to gain more knowledge about the folk culture of Chhattisgarh then you should definitely drop by the Purkhauti Muktangan.
How to reach?
Air
To the nearest airport for Raipur is the Swami Vivekananda Airport. It is located at a distance of 15 kilometres from the capital.
Rail
The Raipur Junction railway station is situated on the Howrah-Nagpur-Mumbai line of the Indian Railways that is well-connected to the major cities of India.
Road
Raipur is well-connected to other major cities. Many state-run buses can be spotted touring the entire state and its neighbours.
3. Bhilai
Bhilai in Chhatisgarh is located at a distance of 25 kilometres from the capital, Raipur. The city is majorly famous for hosting one of the largest steel plants in the country, the Bhilai Steel Plant. Earlier the city was just a small village. In the year 1955, it saw a drastic development after the establishment of the second steel plant. The city today reaps off its strong industrial background and with the diversity in its culture. The city also has numerous attractions that are visited by numerous tourists. The city of Bhilai has won the Prime Minister’s Trophy for more than five times for its lush green environment.
Maitri Bagh zoo
The Maitri Bagh zoo in Bhilai is one of the topmost attractions to visit. The zoo stretches up to an area of 111 acres. It was established in the year 1972, by Bhilai Steel Plant, SAIL. It inhabits many animals such as tigers, lions, leopards, deers and many more. One of its major attraction points is the musical fountain. Biggest in the world, it adds ample charm and beauty.
Civic Centre
The civic centre is one of the most popular places to visit in Bhilai. The centre is the hub for all forms of social activities, shops and eateries. Currently, the place has also added a children’s garden to make it more kid-friendly. It is also a great spot for art lovers as frequent art exhibitions and musical nights are held here.
Tandula
Tandula in Bhilai is a man-made dam that has been built over the Tandula River. The place serves perfectly as a get-together spots for locals who wish to enjoy the scenic surroundings. The place is usually crowded during the winter months as many tourists choose to visit Tandula.
How to reach?
Air
The nearest International Airport from Bhilai is the Swami Vivekanand Airport in Raipur. From there Bhilai is a 45-minute cab ride away.
Rail
The nearest railway station to Bhilai is the Durg Railway Station that connects to may major cities. From the station, Bhilai is just half an hour away.
Road
Bhilai is well connected by road and can be easily reached.
4. Dhamtari
The town of Dhamtari in Chhatisgarh is regarded as one of the oldest municipality regions of India. Formed on 6th July 1998 the town was the former home of the Chalukya empire in the fourteenth century. Over the years Dhamtari has been known for its temples which include two of the most auspicious the Vindhyavasini and the Angarmoti temple. Located alongside the banks of Mahanadi, the town boasts of a unique culture, history, tribe, art forms and much more. The town is also well known for its heritage. Numerous architectural monuments can be witnessed to display their rich historical background.
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the town of Dhamtari is the popular Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary surrounds itself with bundles of greenery and steep hills, adding bundles of charm and wonder. Established in 1974, the sanctuary has been named after the River River Sitanadi that originates in the middle of the sanctuary and joins River Mahanadi near Deokhut. It is regarded as one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in India that inhabit tigers, leopards, jackals, flying squirrels, jungle cats, blackbucks, bison, and many more.
Gangrel Dam
The Gangrel Dam is the longest dam of the state of Chhatisgarh. Built across the Mahanadi river, the dam stretches up to a length of 1,830 metres. It is located at a distance of 15 kilometres from Dhamtari. The dam offers many water sport activities such as Jet skiing, Water surfing, Water skiing, Scuba Diving, Sailing, Parasailing and many more.
Rudri
Rudri in Dhamtari is one of the most popular destinations to visit. It has received much attention from tourists especially history lovers as the place is believed to be the former capital of the Kanker Kingdom during the reign of Rudra Dev. Also due to its proximity to the River Mahanadi, Rudri has gained popularity over the years.
How to reach?
Air
The nearest airport to Dhamtari is 75 kilometres away in Raipur. The town is not well connected to other major cities of the country by flights.
Rail
The Dhamtari railway station is well connected to the rest of India.
Road
Regular bus services, run from and to Dhamtari. They operate on a daily, basis from many places such as Raipur, Bhilai, and many more.
5. Dantewada
Formed in 1998, Dantewada is located in the Bastar district of Chattisgarh. It is a small town that is surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, peaks and green meadows. It is known that the town of Dantewada has been named after Goddess Danteshwari who was incarnate of Shakti. Her presence is lauded even today in the prestigious Danteshwar temple. Earlier known as Tarlapal and Dantawali, Dantewada has been affected by Naxalism. Therefore, if you are planning to head out there do well-versed research before visiting the area. Apart from this, Dantewada mostly has a tribal culture. The native tribes present here majorly include the Muriyas and Dandami Mariyas. This town is perfect for those that wish to encounter how without any materialistic possessions a life can be lives. The tribes here survive on minimalism and their art. They are known for crafting goods from bamboo, clay and metals.
Danteshwari Temple
The Danteshwari Temple is a 600-year-old temple. It was built in the fourteenth century by the Chalukya Dynasty. The temple is regarded as one of the fifty-two Shakti Peeths and has a black stone idol. The Danteshwari Temple has been divided into four zones, the Garbha Griha, Mukhya Mandap, Maha Mandap and the Sabha Mandap. It is marked as highly auspicious by devotees as it is one of the fifty-two Shakti Peeths.
Mama Bhanja Temple
The Mama Bhanja Temple in Dantewada is one of the most popular temples of Chhatisgarh. The temple has been dedicated to Lord Shiva. It gets its name from the Naga dynasty’s ‘Mama’ and ‘Bhanja.’ The temple has a height of fifty feet and has beautiful carving etched on its walls. Tourists can also choose to visit the Shiva and Ganesha temple next to the Mama-Bhanjaa Temple.
Indravati National Park
The Indravati National Park is regarded as the only tiger reserve in Chhattisgarh. It is among the three royal tiger reserves in Chhattisgarh (Achanakmar and Undanti-Sitandadi Tiger Reserves). Apart from the beautiful green trails, you will be able to spot the Wild Asian Buffalo, Nilgai, Black Buck, Sambar, Gaur, Tiger, Leopard, Chital, Sloth bears and many more.
How to reach?
Air
The nearest airport to reach Dantewada is in Raipur, 350 kilometres away. From there you will have to board a cab or taxi.
Rail
The Dantewada railway station connects itself to many major parts of India
Road
Buses operate from Dantewada to its neighbouring places like Raipur, Bhilai often.
Best time to visit Chhattisgarh
The best time to visit Chhattisgarh is between October to March. During the summer months, the temperature usually rises to 45-degree celsius from April to June. During the winter season the temperate dips around 10-degree celsius. Therefore, it is ideal to visit Chhattisgarh during the winter season.
