Chhattisgarh, the “Rice Bowl of India,” is brimming with beauty, heritage, and historical significance. Located in central India, Chhattisgarh has diverse landscapes, ranging from forests and hills to majestic waterfalls and ancient temples. The state’s history dates back thousands of years, with traces of ancient civilisations evident in its archaeological sites and heritage monuments. With its vibrant tribal culture, traditional arts, and delectable cuisine, Chhattisgarh offers visitors a unique and immersive experience. Now, let’s see some of the best places in Chhattisgarh.
1. Chitrakoot Falls:
Chitrakoot Falls, known as the Niagara of India, is one of Chhattisgarh’s most spectacular natural wonders. Located near Jagdalpur in Bastar district, these horseshoe-shaped waterfalls cascade down a height of approximately 30 meters, creating a mesmerising sight amidst lush greenery. Visitors can relax in breathtaking views of the falls, go for boat rides in the tranquil waters, and explore the surrounding forests and trails.
2. Bastar Palace:
Bastar Palace, located in Jagdalpur, is a majestic heritage structure that symbolises the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Built by rulers of the Bastar Kingdom, the palace boasts a special combination of architectural styles, including traditional Bastar and colonial influences. Visitors can explore the palace’s ornate halls, intricate carvings, and expansive courtyards, gaining insights into the region’s royal legacy and cultural traditions.
3. Kanger Valley National Park:
Kanger Valley National Park, situated near Jagdalpur, is a mesmerising wilderness area known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. The park is home to dense forests, winding rivers, and fascinating limestone caves, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can embark on wildlife safaris, trekking expeditions, and cave explorations, encountering diverse flora and fauna.
4. Sirpur:
Sirpur is an ancient town in Chhattisgarh renowned for its archaeological sites, ancient temples, and historical monuments. The city was once a flourishing centre of Buddhism and Hinduism, with traces of its glorious past evident in its ruins and relics. Visitors can explore the intricately carved temples, Buddhist monasteries, and ancient sculptures, gaining insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual legacy.
5. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary:
Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Raipur, is a secure area known for its diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary is the abode of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and wild boars, making it a famous destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can embark on safari tours, birdwatching expeditions, and nature walks, immersing themselves in the sanctuary’s natural beauty and serenity.
6. Danteshwari Temple:
Danteshwari Temple, located in Dantewada district, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. It is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, making it a famed pilgrimage site for devotees. Visitors can marvel at the temple’s exquisite architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual ambience, participate in rituals, and seek blessings from the deity.
7. Malhar Archaeological Site:
Malhar Archaeological Site, situated near Bilaspur, is an ancient settlement dating back to the Gupta period. The site is home to numerous archaeological remains, including temples, sculptures, and inscriptions, shedding light on the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can visit the ruins, marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of the artefacts, and gain insights into the life and times of ancient civilisations.
8. Mahamaya Temple:
Mahamaya Temple, located in Dhamtari district, is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is renowned for its annual Navratri celebrations, during which devotees from far and wide gather to seek blessings and offer their prayers to the deity. Visitors can admire the temple’s architectural beauty, participate in religious ceremonies, and soak in the spiritual ambience of the surroundings.
9. Gangrel Dam:
Gangrel Dam, situated on the Mahanadi River near Dhamtari, is one of the largest dams in Chhattisgarh. The dam’s reservoir, Gangrel Reservoir, is a famed tourist attraction, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking amidst scenic surroundings. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the reservoir, go for leisurely boat rides, and unwind in the serene ambience of the dam.
10. Rajiv Lochan Temple:
Rajiv Lochan Temple, located in Rajim, is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is renowned for its annual Rajim Kumbh Mela, a religious festival that attracts pilgrims and devotees nationwide. Visitors can marvel at the temple’s exquisite architecture, participate in religious ceremonies, and experience the vibrant festivities of the mela.
11. Bhuteshwar Shiva Temple:
Bhuteshwar Shiva Temple, situated in Dongargarh, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is on a hill, offering scenic views of the surrounding areas and distant horizons. Visitors have to climb the 1,000 steps to reach the temple, pay homage to the deity, and soak in the serene ambience of the surroundings.
12. Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary:
Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary near Raipur is a secure area known for its diverse ecosystems and wildlife species. The sanctuary is the abode of tigers, leopards, deer, and various bird species, making it a must-go destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can embark on safari tours, birdwatching expeditions, and nature walks, immersing themselves in the sanctuary’s natural beauty and serenity.
13. Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary:
Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary near Bilaspur is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The sanctuary is the abode of various flora and fauna, with tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and wild boars, making it a popular destination for wildlife safaris and nature walks. Visitors can explore the sanctuary’s dense forests, serene water bodies, and scenic landscapes, experiencing the beauty and tranquillity of nature.
14. Maitri Bagh:
Maitri Bagh, located in Bhilai, is a sprawling zoo and botanical garden popular recreational destination for visitors of all ages. The zoo is home to diverse wildlife, including lions, tigers, elephants, and exotic bird species, making it a delightful place for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the zoo’s lush gardens, scenic pathways, and interactive exhibits, enjoying educational and entertaining experiences amidst nature’s beauty.
15. Gavar Ghat Waterfall:
Gavar Ghat Waterfall, situated near Jagdalpur, is a hidden gem tucked away amidst lush greenery and rolling hills—the waterfall falls down a rocky cliff, creating a mesmerising spectacle of water and mist amidst serene surroundings. Visitors can trek through the forest trails, enjoy panoramic views of the waterfall, and unwind in the tranquil ambience of the natural surroundings.
16. Indravati National Park:
Indravati National Park, in the Bijapur district, is an enchanting wilderness area known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. The park is an abode to various wildlife, including tigers, leopards, bison, and deer, making it a must-go destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can embark on safari tours, birdwatching expeditions, and nature walks, immersing themselves in the park’s natural beauty and tranquillity.
17. Bilaspur:
Bilaspur is a bustling city in Chhattisgarh renowned for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. The city is the abode of various landmarks, including the Ratanpur Fort, Laxmi Narayan Temple, and Kanan Pendari Zoo, making it a famous destination for history buffs, religious pilgrims, and families. Visitors can explore the city’s historical sites, religious shrines, and recreational parks, gaining insights into the region’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.
18. Madku Dweep:
Madku Dweep is a picturesque island on the Shivnath River in Chhattisgarh. The island is renowned for its natural beauty, lush greenery, and serene surroundings, making it a famous destination for nature lovers and peace seekers. Visitors can enjoy boating, picnicking, and birdwatching on the island, immersing themselves in the tranquillity and beauty of nature.
19. Arang:
Arang is an ancient town in Chhattisgarh known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and religious significance. The town is home to various temples, including the Bhand Deul Temple, Mahamaya Temple, and Baijnath Temple, making it a famous pilgrimage site for devotees and history buffs. Visitors can explore the town’s ancient temples, admire the intricate carvings and sculptures, and gain insights into the region’s spiritual legacy.
20. Dantewada:
Dantewada, a district in Chhattisgarh, is known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. The region is home to the famous Danteshwari Temple, a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari. Visitors can explore the temple, participate in religious ceremonies, and experience the vibrant local culture and traditions of the region.
Chhattisgarh is a land of diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and historical significance. From the breathtaking waterfalls and lush forests to the ancient temples and heritage sites, the state offers visitors a unique and immersive experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, Chhattisgarh has something to offer everyone.
