Chhattisgarh Experience
Chhattisgarh, East India
Adventure & Sports, Heritage & History, Hiking & Trekking, Nature & Wildlife, Trips & Excursions
Chhattisgarh, a relatively young state, heavily forested in the Central part of India was carved keeping in mind the abundant natural resources and the people living there symbiotically. It’s a great place to travel to and be one with the nature.
Overview
The relatively young state of Chhattisgarh is known for its forests and unique tribal culture. Wildlife is one of the big draws for any traveler here with the states’ numerous national parks and rich diversity of flora and fauna. Thanks to the geographical richness there are many opportunities for outdoor adventure activities for travelers. Over the years the state has progressed a lot and is continuously developing its tourism infrastructure. This is the best time to go while tourism is still at its infancy and therefore destinations are still away from the madding crowds.
Following are some of the places and experiences we have listed. Based on your interests and time we could curate a personalized itinerary for you.
RAIPUR
The capital of Chhattisgarh is a bustling and ever growing city. Raipur traces its existence to the 9th century, and the remnants of that period can still be seen in the southern part of the city. Because of this historical link the city is often visited by historians, archaeologists and history buffs.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Places To Visit: Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum, which contains a stunning collection of items used by the different tribes of Chhattisgarh. Doodhadhari Monastery and Temple. Budhapara Lake, built by King Brahmadei in 1,404 AD. Other attractions of Raipur are Vivekananda Sarovar, Nandavan Garden and Hajra Waterfall.
How To Get There: Well connected by Air (Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur), Rail (Raipur Junction) and Road.
WILDLIFE AND NATIONAL PARKS:
One thing that is not in scarcity in Chhattisgarh is the forest cover and wildlife. For wildlife enthusiasts there are lot of options to explore the nature and indulge in safaris. Some of the popular National Parks are:
BARNAWAPARA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
This richly vegetated unique wildlife sanctuary is 100 km away from Raipur and 45 km away from Mahasamund City. The inhabitants of this sanctuary include number of Tigers, leopards, porcupine, pythons, antelopes, bison and many other species. As you walk in through the muddy paths you are bound to spot parrots, herons, egrets, black bucks, porcupines, monkeys, pea fowl, barking deers and other animals.
How To Get There: Well connected by road (286 km from Raipur).
SITANADI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
This wildlife sanctuary is located in Dhamtari district and covers an area of approx. 556 sq km. Home to the endangered species – Asiatic wild buffalo, this sanctuary can be explored on a jeep safari which both safe and exciting. Known for its rich flora, unique and diverse fauna, this sanctuary houses 120 species of birds and more than 20 species of mammals.
How To Get There: Well connected by road (130 km from Raipur).
NANDANVAN JUNGLE AND SAFARI
Located at a distance of 35 km from Raipur, this 800 acre is best to view the graces of mother nature. You can go for four kinds of safaris here namely, herbivore, bear, tiger and lion safari. Also, there are plenty of indigenous plant species that create a natural habitat for all these animals.
How To Get There: Well connected by road (35 km from Raipur).
TREKKING:
Chhattisgarh with its geographical terrain of forests and hills is a delight for any trekker.
There are lots of hiking trails in and around Raipur (as follows) along with many in the state.
– Hike to Jatmai Temple crossing a beautiful waterfall along the way.
– Trek to Kila Dongri or Gadiya Mountain, the tallest mountain in the Kanker region.
– Raipur to Gupteshwar for a multi-day trekking trip.
BIRD WATCHING:
Achanakumar and Barnawapara are two wildlife sanctuaries that are perfect for any bird watcher.
How To Get There:
Achanakumar is 90 km from Bilaspur (and 182 km from Raipur) is home to many species of birds.
Barnawapara, around 100 km from Raipur is also a stand alone bird sanctuary with diverse species of birds.
Both are well connected by road.
CAVING:
When in Chhattisgarh you have to go caving. The Kutusumar Cave is one such place that will spellbound you with its rock formations. The Cave was discovered in 1993, is situated 35 meters below ground level and is 2 km in length.
The beauty of nature lies in this cave, where you will get to see a variety of exotic fishes, amphibians, a rock resembling the Mount Kailash, and rock looking similar to Lord Shiva. Located near Tirathgarh falls, the Kutumsar or Kailash cave is the second largest natural cave in the world and largest in Asia.
How To Get There: Well connected by road (324 km from Raipur).
BUNGEE JUMPING:
Set against the beautiful lush green forest Jagdalpur is a stunning place to bungee jump. And when you come down visit the Tirathgarh and Chitrakoot waterfalls.
How To Get There: Jagdalpur is well connected by road (286 km from Raipur).
BOATING AND KAYAKING:
Chitrakoot falls, also known as the Niagara Falls of India is a beautiful waterfall. Located 38 km from Jagdalpur, the shape resembles that of a horseshoe. The forest around the waterfall has spectacular views.
And at the bottom of the falls there is a wide array of water activities such boating, rafting and kayaking. Chhattisgarh has many options for whitewater kayaking and canoeing. Adventure enthusiasts would love it here.
How To Get There: Chitrakoot Falls is well connected by road (276 km from Raipur).
TEMPLES AND PALACES:
BASTAR PALACE
Bastar Palace was constructed when the Kings of Bastar moved their capital to Jagdalpur. There are intricate wall carvings that make it more beautiful.
How To Get There: Located at Jagdalpur (286 km from Raipur), it is well connected by rail and road.
KANKER PALACE
Originally known as the Radhanivas Bagicha, the palace was further renovated later in 1937. The palace is located is a very picturesque setting with beautiful gardens. There are few activities you could indulge in while you are there such as jeep safari and boat safari.
How To Get There: Located at Kanker (128 km from Raipur), it is well connected by road.
BHORAMDEO TEMPLE
Also called as the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh, Bhoramdeo Temple was built between the 7th to 11th Century AD. Located against the settings the Maikal Mountains the view is stunning from the top of the temple.
How To Get There: Located at Kawardha (118 km from Raipur), it is well connected by road.
PALACE KAWARDHA
An historical palace now converted into a luxury hotel on Maikal Mountain ranges 941 m above sea level is a must visit if you are in the area.
How To Get There: Located at Kawardha (118 km from Raipur), it is well connected by road.
LAXMAN TEMPLE
One of the oldest temples in the Raipur, Laxman Temple is fine example of a brick temple. On the sides of the entrance there are erotic carvings, intricate Krishna Leela ornamental symbols and incarnations of Lord Vishnu. A popular monument as it is visited by thousands every year from across the world.
How To Get There: Located in Raipur.
Apart from these there are other places and trails in Chhattisgarh waiting for you to be discovered and explored.
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