Chhattisgarh Tourism – Top Places to See & Things to Do

Admitting to the fact that Chhattisgarh is still an offbeat tourist destination, there are several unfamiliar and implicit tourists’ spots where you can unwind and enjoy all that it has to offer. This green state, Chhattisgarh is home to some timeworn historical sites, stunning waterfalls, bounteous flora and fauna, with culture filled tradition and customs. As the 10th largest state in India, traversing in Chhattisgarh from one place to another is an ending excursion and we can help you decide where to engrave your mark as soon as you enter here.

Let’s en route and uncover some popular travel destinations in Chhattisgarh we can ramble on and the list go down the line first with:

The Places to Visit in Chhattisgarh

1. Raipur City

Ghadi Chowk Raipur, PhotoPhoto: https://goo.gl/oF50FZ

The capital of Chhattisgarh is filled with many historical sites, allied with wide and comfortable road; this destination is sometimes referred as the “Rice Bowl of India” as variety of rice is grown here. The infrastructure of the city is well maintained and the government runs interstate bus service on a regular basis from neighbouring states. The city of Raipur has many popular tourist attractions, some of them are:

Mahant Ghasidas Museum:

The capital of Chhattisgarh is known widely for Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum, this structure established in the year 1875 was built by Raja Mahant Ghasidas of Rajnandgaon far-reaching to a gush of awareness regarding the preservation of archaeological heritage.

Shabari Handicrafts Emporium and Chhattisgarh Haat:

Shabari Handicrafts Emporium and Chhattisgarh Haat is famous for displaying local artists and craftsmen. Visitors can find attractions like local craft on display and sale Sushilpikangan, a must visit for every Raipur visitors. It has Dhokra arts with the finest workmanship and you can indulge in authentic Chhattisgarh handicrafts and Mahakoshal Kala Parishad – on sale.

Purkhauti Muktangan Museum:

An open air art museum and park developed by Tourism Ministry of Chhattisgarh is one stop not to miss when you visit Raipur. The park cum museum displays the artefacts, habitat, folk dances, and food habits of the tribals. A fun place to visit for family picnics and outings, you can visit the old collections of artifices and munch as well.

Vivekananda Sarovar:

Another top tourism place to visit is the Vivekananda Sarovar also known as ‘Burha Talab’. Boating and picnic are an ongoing fiesta for the visitors here at Vivekananda Sarovar. The name of the lake derives from Swami Vivekananda, who lived close by whenever he visited Raipur during his holidays. Considering as a lovely place to meander it has a large statue about 37 ft high of Swami Vivekananda in the middle of the pond.

Rajiv Smriti Van and Urja Park:

If Raipur is where you want to travel, then you wouldn’t want to miss out on the top attractions like Rajiv Smriti Van and Urja Park. Located on the outskirts of the city of Raipur it spreads over a slouch land area of 1 acre, built in the memory of Late Rajiv Gandhi. This garden is built to achieve public awareness towards safekeeping of nature and to explain the act of nature and the environment.

2. Bhoramdeo Temple

Bhoramdeo Temple, Photo: https://bit.ly/2RYb0lj

Location: 18 km North-West of the Tehsil town of Kawardha, Kabirdham district.

What is the speciality of this temple? Well, it is a complex of temples in the interior of the mountain range. It comprises of four temples – Bhoramdeo temple, Madwa Mahal, Istaliq temple and Cherki Mahal.

Bhoramdeo temple:

The main temple Bhoramdeo is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple called the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh was constructed somewhere between the 7th and 11th centuries, and it stands strong ever since. Its outstanding structure and detailed carved images really are an impressive work of art. The temple contains finely sculpted images of the ten avatars of the Lord Vishnu, apart from images of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha.

Madwa Mahal:

Madwa Mahal has a traditional architecture embellishment as you enter the Mahal, located about a kilometre from the main temple. Madwa Mahal is focused more on the sacrament of marriage, as the structure is fabricated to that of a hall or pandal. Its walls are modelled with images of gods and erotic sculptures from Kama Sutra reflecting the tantric culture practised by the Nagawanshi kings.

Istaliq Temple:

Istaliq temple adjoining the main temple Bhoramdeo is in a state of disrepair or deterioration. The temple built with dried or burnt clay bricks has only a sanctum sanctorum without an entrance hall or mandap. The worthy of worship sculptures along with images of Uma Maheswar and of the king and queen standing in a worshipful pose are defied in this temple.

Cherki Mahal:

Cherki Mahal is the last temple in the complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was built by Nagwamshi emperor in the 14th century. Smaller in size in comparison to Bhoramdeo temple and Madwa Mahal, Cherki Mahal is not easily locatable as it is situated in a thinly forested area. However, the roof of the holy place is idealised with the national flower of India, Lotus and the porch has many aesthetic repeated pattern.

Its many-sidedness revolves around the picturesque temples… but the lushness of temples is not all Chhattisgarh tour offers…

Kawardha:

Located on the southern bank of river Sakari about 116 km north-west of Raipur is a peaceful and attractive place, Kawardha. The main attraction of the city is the magnificent palace built during Maharaja Dharamraj Singh’s reign, between 1936 and 1939. The Palace Kawardha is a mega structure built with Italian marble and stone, it sets in 11 acres of private of lush flowery garden.

Open Air Museum:

Open Air Museum is a popular tourist spot located within the complex of temples. This open-air museum has a large collection of archaeological antiquaries, unearthed from the area dating back to 2nd and 3rd century. Chhattisgarh Open-Air Museum conserves and protects the heritage items to display for the tourists. The open-air museum is also known as’Purkhouti Muktangan’.

Bhoramdeo Sanctuary:

With an undulating backdrop of the Bhoramdeo Temple which it is named after, Bhoramdeo Sanctuary covers a total area of about 300 sq. km. Covered by the hills and thick forests of the Maikal range, the sanctuary is still an undiscovered natural treasure trove. It houses a mini wildlife paradise here named as Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary and it is abundant with flora and fauna found approximately 20 km away from Kawardha city of Chhattisgarh.

3. Sirpur

The Buddha Vihar

The town of Sirpur has a rich background of traditional cultural heritage and architecture. Its pristine waters of the Mahanadi and the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary on the Northeast, Sirpur is a small town about 84km from the capital, Raipur.

The archaeological reminders are still a pride for this region and some historical sightseeing places to dig in are:

The Buddha Vihar:

The Buddha Vihar in Sirpur is older than Nalanda and it is an enriching experience to see its historic remains and sculptures. The Buddha Vihar has a tone of the Gupta dynasty temple, and the place is also known for – as the meeting point of Awlokiteshwar and Makarwahini Gange. What resides inside the temple is a six feet tall statue of Buddha that is placed meditating in its solitary ruins.

Surang Tila:

Surang Tila Temple stands out for its amazing structure. With a gobsmacking huge triple pyramid structure made of white stones, it has a platform of about 30-35 feet height. This divine temple reflects a style of its own and is one destination not to miss.

Laxman Temple and Museum:

Laxman temple is surrounded by neat, leafy grounds. This small but extraordinary brick temple is in relatively good shape and it is considered as an archaeological ground. This temple started out as a structure dedicated to Vishnu which now houses a museum in the Laxman temple premises. The Archaeological Survey of India has established a museum within the premises with a collection of some rare statues kept along with several other architectural memories. Such pieces are related to Shiva, Vaishnav, Jain religion and Buddha. The premises also host the annual Sirpur Festival, a medley of music, dance, art and culture.

4. Rajim

Rajiv-Lochan Temple, Photo: https://bit.ly/306hpM2

Famous for its cultural heritage and ancient temples, Rajim hosts the holy union of three rivers Mahanadi, Pairi and Sondur. Hence, Rajim is known as the “Prayag” of the Chhattisgarh and every year visitors lump together from all across the country to be a part of the Chhattisgarh Kumbh Mela which begins from Magh Poornima and lasts till Mahashivratri.

Rajiv-Lochan Temple:

Rajiv-Lochan Temple is located about 30 km from Raipur Railway Station in a small town of Rajim. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is a significant religious construction visited by devotees from all over the globe and the structure of the temple is supported by twelve towered columns cross-stitched with stone carvings, which bear the faces of the gods of the Hindu mythology.

Rajeshvar Temple:

Opposite to the western entrance of Rajiv-Lochan temple, Rajeshvar Temple is located. Similar to Rajiv-Lochan, this temple is also constructed over a Jagati which is 2 feet 8 inches high. The temple is composed of a mandapa, antarala and garbha-griha, it place a Nandi in a small hall in between the sanctum and mandapa.

There are many temples in and around the town of Rajim, some worth visiting landmarks are Daneshvar Temple, Jagannath Temple, Ramachandra Temple, Kuleshvar Temple etc.

5. Champaranya

Champaranya Temple

Located about 60 km from the state capital of Raipur Champaranya {earlier known as Champajhar} is a small village and it is the birthplace of the saint Vallabhacharya, the reformer and founder of the Vallabh Sect. This beautiful quiet little village has important temples dedicated to the great saint, a worth visiting landmarks in Champaranya are:

Champaranya Temple:

Champaranya Temple has an interior completely decorated by using marble to sweat the feeling of peace and serenity. This enchanting holy ground has a series of marble statues depicting the various phases of the saint’s life.

Champaranya Mela:

A great occasion of fun and fair, this mela brings to light the rich culture of the region. The Champaraya Mela attracts a lot of visitors from all over the country and basically you can witness a large gathering of the Vaishnavas from every den and corner of India.

6. Magnetic Waterfalls

Chitrakote Falls, Photo: https://goo.gl/FNC2qd

Chhattisgarh is blessed with exotic waterfalls and it is inescapable no matter how hard you try…

The beauty lingers… Still not convinced? Check out the three waterfalls of Chhattisgarh listed below:

Chitrakote Falls:

As magnificent as Niagara Falls, Chitrakote Falls more or less give a compliment to Niagara, if you ask me they are similar to Olsen sisters except without plastic surgery and foundations on. Indravati River, the name says it all…mighty and tough and it is one of the six waterfalls in India classified as “Geomorphosites” defined as landforms that acquire a scientific, aesthetic, cultural, historical, social and economic value due to human perception or exploitation.

The best feature about Chitrakote is a single flat flow that allows a free fall of mighty river Indravati. During low flow, you can notice the Chitrakote Fall in three braids unlike the monsoon season, hence, the best time to visit is when the level rises making the current swift and mighty. The strong current makes the ambience look misty from the plunge making a deep excavating. Truly a sight not to miss and you can also paddle around the river near the fall. Experience India’s largest waterfall.

Location: 50 km from Jagdalpur, Bastar district, 273 km from Raipur, Chhattisgarh

Teerathgarh Falls:

This mystic waterfall is a block designed fall, which appears to gush along a curvy slope wave after wave. The display picture certainly helps the imagine squall how the ambience would look or feel like. This single gush of water plunges 91 meters on the river surface, bouncing a series of pebbles and rocks. It’s calm and pleasant sound has a welcome feel to it and a spellbound effect to spectators.

This mesmerising waterfall is also known as milky fall for its white colour water formed as it gushes downward turning into pristine white colour. This time river Kanger occupies the claim for holding one of the best tourist spots to glance at the elegant fall and wander all day chipped in picnic and fun outdoor activities around the fall in the Kanger National Park.

Location: 35 kilometres south-west of Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh.

Tamra Ghoomar Waterfalls:

The green landscape on both sides makes this waterfall look even more lush. Tamra Ghoomar Waterfall, a tropical paradise was recently discovered with a height of 30 meters, this stunningly gracious waterfall is yet another plus point to Chhattisgarh tourism and this picture perfect scenery is filled with tranquil stillness and inspiring cliffs.

Tamra Ghoomar Falls is a natural wonder for tourists and it has become a popular picnic spot as well. This scenic spot near Chitrakoot is filled with untouched natural beauty and divine landscapes and a walk in this hidden treasure is not to be missed. Indeed a perfect example of one of its kind eco-tourism in India.

Location: 45 km from Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh

7. The Maitri Bagh

Maitri Bagh, Photo: https://goo.gl/MUu38t

The Maitri Bagh or the ‘Garden of Friendship’ is an ultimate funfair destination for the family. This one-stop paradise is filled with fun retreat and entertainment not just for children but for grownups too. Built to monumentalise the friendship between Indian and the Russian Government, it is considered to be one of the best hangout spots in the state of Chhattisgarh.

What are the features of Maitri Bagh?

As I mentioned earlier, it is a destination not just for children, well because the premises offers fun frolic activities like musical fountains, beautiful gardens, serene lakes, zoo, a tower to sightsee the entire park “Pragati Minar” and a special toy train called “Maitri Express” for the children. If you like music in your ear, visit the musical fountain that starts from 7 pm and enjoy its vibrant colours that dance with the music. Visit the zoo, let your children learn about the animals while you can revise or simply recall your whippersnapper days. Romanticise with your special whilst boating as the sun goes down amidst the serene splendour of the lake. Note: The park developed by the Bhilai Steel Plant remains open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and closes on Mondays.

Location: Maroda Sector, Bhilai, Chhattisgarh

8. Wildlife in Chhattisgarh

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Photo: https://bit.ly/2DJ4OEY

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary:

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary in the midst of Chhattisgarh is an ebbing and flowing province flaked with copious low and high hillocks well-forested area of the North-eastern corner of Raipur district. The rich and lush vegetation supports a wide selection of wildlife in the sanctuary and it is well stock with a mixture of flora and fauna in the midst of the vibrant lush greenery.

Fauna:

You can sightsee some fauna like the Indian Bison, Sambhar, Cheetal, Neelgai, Wild boar, Four-horned Antelopes, Porcupine, Cobra and Python to name a few and there are over 150 species of birds that are frequently seen.

Flora:

The flora of Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary comprises of tropical dry deciduous forest and the major plants found in the sanctuary include Mahua, Semal, Tendu Ber etc.

Achanakmar Tiger Reserve:

In the Maikai range of Chhattisgarh, a visit to the Tiger Reserve will definitely give you a mesmerising experience. Surrounded by the dense forest Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is a park with extraordinary beauty and biodiversity. Take delight in viewing the dense lush forest and some beautiful flora and fauna.

Flora:

Achanakmar Tiger Reserve has a vast bloom of bamboos along with 600 species of medicinal plants. Other plants found in abundance are Sal, bija, saja, haldu, teak, tinsa, dhawara, lendia and khamar.

Fauna:

Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is widely regarded for its majestic tigers; apart from tiger the reserve has a collection of Leopard, Bison, Flying Squirrel, an Indian giant Squirrel, Chinkara, Wild Dog, Hyena, Sambar, Chital and over 150 species of birds.

Kanger Valley National Park:

Rugged Mountain and deep gorges are seen widely from every angle as you move forward to the Kanger Valley National Park. It has a perfect environment for varied species of wildlife, as the national park offers its natural habitat and gives a rare opportunity to observe wildlife up-close.

Flora and Fauna:

Kanger Valley National Park is home to a mixed moist deciduous type of forests and it serves as a home to thriving tigers, barking deer, chital, chinkara, leopards, sambar, blackbuck and many other animals, reptiles and birds within the enclosed park. Like other biodiversity reserves, the Valley has a collection of flora like sal, teak, bamboo etc.

It is famous for Baster Myna sometimes called Mynah. This stocky jet-black Myna is a great vocalist, often identified by its loud and shrill whistle. The birdie voice echoes from the branches as you enter the Kanger Valley National Park.

It’s not just the flora and fauna this park has to offer… its best feature resides in amazing caves like…

Kailash Gufa, Photo: https://goo.gl/N33lBB

Kutumsar cave:

This cave is the longest cave in India and second biggest cave in the world. It can descent up to 35 metres below ground level. Kutumsar cave inhabits bats, frogs, snakes, crickets and many other insects and reptiles who seek safety in the darkness.

Kailash Gufa:

Kailash Gufa or cave is 40 metres above ground and it is 250 in length. It’s dark and narrow entrance may give you second thoughts but at the end of the cave, there is a huge standstill formation that looks like a Shivlinga.

These caves are located in the Kanger National Park near the Mikulwada village.

9. Dongargarh

Maa Bamleswari Temple, Photo: https://goo.gl/tCtmmm

Dongargarh is a city in Rajnandgaon District of Chhattisgarh, and it is the site of Maa Bamleshwari Devi Temple which of a great spiritual importance to the believers. The people of Chhattisgarh consider Bamleshwari Devi Temple as a Tirth and Dongargarh city is perhaps the main tourist pilgrimage destinations in Chhattisgarh.

It is famous for the three erected landmarks:

Pragyagiri:

Pragyagiri is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations because it is where the Statue of Lord Gautama Buddha is located. Getting high up the destination is a task as the Pragyagiri Mountains has a winding path of 255 steps that leads us to the enlightening rays of divinity.

Badi Bambleshwari:

The famous Maa Bambleshwari temple is located on a hilltop of about 1600 in the town of Dongargarh. It is regarded as Badi Bambleshwari as it is located high up the mountain where you can get a grand aerial view of the valley.

Chotti Bambleshwari:

It is called so as Chotti Bambleshwari temple is located at ground level about ½ km from the main temple complex. This complex is vibrant during the festival of Navratris. Grand melas are organised in the premises of the temple, which run 24 hours.

10. Mainpat

Photo: https://goo.gl/no9WKx

Mainpat is another tourist place in Chhattisgarh being the favourable tourist destination for nature lovers. Its lush green fields and enchanting shrines can draw the romantics from around India. This yet to traverse place has beautiful hill slopes, waterfalls and offers an excellent opportunity to delve in the midst of the less explored destination.

Dhakpo Monastery:

A Monastery in Chhattisgarh maybe something fresh out of the closet, this monastery is quite small unlike all other monasteries in other Indian states. Mainpat has a settlement for Tibetans, in fact, Mainpat is also known as ‘Mini Tibet’.

Jaljali:

This rather strange and exciting land Chhattisgarh tourism introduces, where all the bounce exercise happens. Jaljali commonly known as a bounding land has a soft old sod or an arena. People take the leisure to sightsee and at least hop in amaze and wonder.

Tiger Point:

This landmark is a good spot for picnics and escapade. This is another waterfall near the Tibetan camp in Chhattisgarh and it is a gateway to Mainpat.

11. Girodhpuri Dham

Jaitkhamb, Photo: https://goo.gl/9f2c4d

Jaitkhamb:

Chhattisgarh is definitely a pilgrim’s paradise and Girodhpuri Dham is popular for having the tallest Jaitkhamb in the world. This mega structure Jaitkhamb holds a symbol of Satnami, Satnam religion and truth. The height of this breathtaking structure is 77metre and it is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Chhattisgarh.

Amrutkund:

Other attraction is the Amrutkund where it is believed that Sat Guru had cured many animals of various syndromes by generating Amrut Jal.

Baba Ghasi Das Seating Area:

Another best holiday attraction is the Baba Ghasi Das Seating area where it is believed that he meditated and gained enlightenment.

12. Bastar

Photo: https://goo.gl/807R6W

Bastar is one of the most significant eco-friendly destinations of the country and is a tribal region in Chhattisgarh. Bastar is blessed with an exceptional scenic beauty that entices the lovers of nature, wildlife, tribal dances and ancient ruins. Bastar is at bounteous when it comes to offering its beauty. It has them all from national parks, natural caves, waterfalls, palaces to museums.

Bastar rich tribal culture:

The biggest tribal district of Chhattisgarh, Bastar is famous for its colourful tribes and festival. With the entire Bastar region flocking with the Gond, Abhuj Maria, and Bhatra (It is furthermore divided into Sub casts like San Bhatra, Pit Bhatra and Amnit Bhatra). Come and witness the rich culture and traditions of tribals of this land.

Bastar Dussehra Festival:

Bastar Dussehra Festival is very famous festival celebrated in Chhattisgarh. This festival is an old tradition started by the Royal families and is now a rhythmic and vibrant tradition of tribal life of Bastar.

Delve into the historic treasure of Chhattisgarh’s most ancient wonders…

13. Malhar

Malhar is a charming and mesmerising ancient town of Chhattisgarh and the ambience is something very earthy. The town of Malhar is on the list of “Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains of National Importance” which is taken care by Archaeological Survey of India.

The antique remains were found of the period from 1000 BC Appx to Kalchuri regime. Many ancient temples have been found, such as Pataleshwar temple, Devri temple & Dindeshwari temple. The temples dating back to 10th and 11th century have been seen in this town with antique and neatly done sculptures and the old sod ambience.

14. Tala:

Devrani – Jethani Temple, Photo: https://goo.gl/yuLYg9

Tala is an important place for the archaeologist and a pride of Chhattisgarh. This landmark has seen many ruins and excavations and its added beauty attracts many visitors travelling to Chhattisgarh.

The ‘Rudra’ Sculpture:

One of the famous excavations is perhaps the ‘Rudra’ image of Lord Shiva. This rare sculpture gives us a glimpse into different shades of the Lord Shiva’s personality standing at the height of 254m and width of 1m. A unique sculpture of Lord Shiva was excavated at the Devrani temple during the year 1967-88.

Devrani – Jethani Temple:

Devrani – Jethani Temple flaunts excellent carving work and pillars. The temple consists of the Ardha Mandapa Garbha, Griha, and the Antraal. Along the temple, there are huge elephant statues guarding each side of the internal chambers which adds more royalty to the anagogic ambience.

Hence, Tala is a land of excavations and it is enriched with beautiful shaped sculptures dating back to the antiquated era. Many of the ruins are preserved in Tala and many more sculptures scatter all over the temple. Tala is a destination to wander the land of the lost and be secluded amongst nature and ancient artefacts.

15. Madku Dweep

Photo: https://goo.gl/VpYhK6

Madku Dweep is an island in Chhattisgarh surrounded by Shivnath River. Amidst the lush green and serene natural beauty, Madku Dweep is an island filled with the highly skilled workmanship and ruins of temples, epigraphs, coins and pottery.

This island is famous for its antique findings of revered deities that include Shivalingas, Nandi, Ganesha, Amalak and many more Gods. An extensive excavation has unearthed about 19 temples that face west and 18 to the east. It is believed that flooding of the river resulted in the destruction of this ancient site.

Things to Do in Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh truly has some captivating places and their brilliant things to do and see are not far behind…

There is much more in this dwelling land, apart from globe-trotting. Some things to do and see in Chhattisgarh are:

16. Bungee Jumping in Jagdalpur

Photo: https://goo.gl/GL5nyx

Chhattisgarh is a beautiful state and Jagdalpur nested in the wilderness in rich flora and fauna, makes it a fitting hotspot to test your guts for bungee jumping experience. What’s more fun than jumping from a height of 30 meters with green natural surroundings around?

Cost: INR 300 per person

17. Pandavani performance

Photo: https://goo.gl/hDmCyo

Pandavani literally means stories or songs of the Pandavas {the brothers in the legend Mahabharata}. Pandavani act involves singing and enacting the narration of tales from the ancient Indian epic stories specifically ‘The Mahabharata’. Some famous dance acts performed are Raut Nacha, Dewar Nacha, Panthi and Soowa, Padki and Pandwani.

18. Pola festival: Bullock Race

Pola is a bull-worshipping festival celebrated by Indian farmers where the bulls are vibrantly decorated with bells, multi-colours and it is garlanded with new clothes. Pola festival of Chhattisgarh is to appeal God for the upcoming good harvest. This unique festival is entertained with the bull race that is extremely popular in this region and basically the main attraction too. It is an affair of the festival as it is followed by Pola and Teeja as teeja being the festival of women.

The friendly people of Chhattisgarh live a very hard working life and show great hospitality to the visitors. With varied culture, rituals, customs and beliefs, Chhattisgarh is still an eccentric destination ready to awe the passers-by. If you are looking for an experience to spend your holidays adventurously then we offer some great deals to embark on, if you want a getaway to the historical and natural destination, you can call us at +91-9212777223/24 or email us at info@tourmyindia.com for an unlimited fun tourism in Chhattisgarh.