Chhattisgarh, a state situated in the heart of India is believed to have taken the name after the 36 ancient forts that existed in the area. Contrary to this view, others believe that Chhattisgarh is the corrupted form of ‘Chedisgarh’. Loosely translated, the word means ‘Empire of the Chedis’. The state is the sweet cacophony of historic spots, exquisite wildlife, majestic palaces, giant waterfalls, and treacherous caverns. All in all, Chattisgarh tourism has everything that Mother Nature could possibly offer.
That’s not all! A major part of this state is still unexplored. In fact, Chattisgarh tourism actually offers an exceptional and unforgettable experience to every kind of traveler. Chhattisgarh is credited for having one of the oldest jute mills and the first geothermal power plant at Balrampur Taat Pani.
In addition, Chhattisgarh is truly a destination ‘full of surprises’. With a 45% forest cover and 32% tribal population, Chattisgarh tourism is the future hothouse for ethnoecology, adventure, and cultural tourism.
On this note, let’s get going and take a look at all the places to see in Chattisgarh
9 tourist attractions of Chattisgarh
Image source : Wikimedia
1. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary
Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is a real gem in the Chattisgarh tourism collection. As a matter of fact, if Rudyard Kipling ever wrote the Jungle Book again, Barnawapara would be the perfect setting for the plot.
Of all the places to see in Chattisgarh, Barnawapara, the land of virgin wood, runs at its own pace till this date. The reserve is an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustles of the city. The sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, porcupine, and antelopes to name a few.
For all photography enthusiasts, the unadulterated light and captivating backgrounds set the perfect ambiance. And what’s more, this unique sanctuary is just 100 kilometers away from the main town of Raipur.
2. Shri Rajiv Lochan Mandir
Second, on the list of places to see in Chattisgarh is the Shri Rajiv Lochana Mandir. Literally translated, it means ‘the one with beautiful eyes’. The temple worships Lord Vishnu. Dating back to the 8th century, it is an excellent example of the architecture of Mahakosala.
The temple consists of twelve pillars with intricate carvings of various Gods and Goddess. Above all, the temple stands at the confluence of the rivers – Pairy, Sondhu and Mahanadi. Truly a sight to behold! The Chaitya arch wooden motif is the main attraction of the temple.
Image source : Wikimedia
3. Chitrakot waterfalls
Next in the list of Chattisgarh tourism is the famous Chitrakot waterfalls. Indravati River conceives the waterfall by taking a deep plunge from a horseshoe gorge. The majestic drop of almost 95 meters is a sight to behold. This waterfall is often hailed as the Niagara Falls of India.
The waterfall puts on an impressive show with alternating hues at different times of the day. To enjoy the best view, hire a local boatsman to lead you to sites below the waterfall. The massive drop of the waterfall not only sprays you with water but also leaves you smiling with a lot of memories.
The waterfall is around 40 km away from Jagdalpur but sadly there is no proper public transport in place. However, autos on a share basis and private cars are easily available. The best time to visit this majestic waterfall in the heart of the wilderness of Chattisgarh is from July to October. The Indravati River unleashes its full force during this time.
Image source: Wikimedia
Image source : Wikimedia
4. Rajeev Smriti Van
Next on our list of places to see in Chattisgarh is the Rajeev Smriti Van. It was built in memory of Former Prime Minister LT. Rajeev Gandhi and is actually a conservation site. The ‘van’ (meaning forest) covers an expanse of 14 acres of land. This intention behind the development of this area is to create public awareness towards the conservation of Nature.
Everything here is powered by solar energy and is a great attraction for tourists with kids. The place is an excellent example of the harmony that can exist between nature, environment, and humans. The van is very just 12 kilometers away from Raipur city. Further, one can easily explore other places like Balaji Temple, Bastar, Arang, Champaran, and Bhilai from here.
Image source : Wikimedia
5. Mahakoshal Art Gallery
Chattisgarh tourism very proudly boasts of its heritage art gallery. The Mahakoshal art gallery not only showcases the artwork of the local folklore but also hosts other art exhibitions. What makes the gallery so rare and one of its kind is the octagonal shape.
In fact, the brilliant architecture of the building is a piece of art in itself. The art gallery with a picture-perfect landscape and the beautifully sculptured garden is a must-visit for art lovers. Additionally, the gallery is located in the heart of Raipur city. Hence, it is easily accessible by tourists.
6. Kanger Valley National Park
The Kanger Valley National Parks derives its name from the Kanger River. Established in 1982, the national park has been declared as one of the Asian Biosphere Reserves.
The Park is an absolute delight for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The National park displays one of the richest biodiversity of fauna in the entire state. Chikara, barking deer, Chital, jackal, and hyena are some of the animals that can be easily spotted here. The rich flora adds to the beauty of the place making it a perfect setting for a jungle retreat complete with a jungle safari. For all the nature lovers, this national park is a must-visit in the list of places to see in Chattisgarh.
Image source: Wikimedia
7. Bhoramdeo Temple
Want to travel back in time and see for yourself what it was to live like in those ancient times?
Well, Chattisgarh tourism has just the spot for you.
The Bhoramdeo temple can be dated back to as far as the 7th century. It is known as the ‘Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh’. Set right in the appealing hinterlands of Maikal mountains, the Bhoramdeo Temple offers an impressive view of the whole city. Further, the intricate carvings and exquisite decoration is surely a treat to the eyes.
The temple sports both religious and erotic sculptures. If you love the ancient history of India, then you will surely be awed by the beautifully sculptured Shiva Linga in the premises of the temple.
Image source : Wikimedia
8. Tirathgarh falls
Tirathgarh Falls at the Kanger Valley National Park is fun, entertainment, picnic, and adventure all rolled into one. This block type waterfall plunges to a height of 91 meters in a single drop. Enjoy the waterfall in its full glory right after the monsoon season. The cascades are in full bloom then. The place puts you in a trance-like state. It appears as if the rough grandeur of the mountains is romanticizing the glistening cascades. In our list of places to see in Chattisgarh, make sure not to miss these falls and experience the magic for yourself.
Image source : Wikimedia
Image source : Wikimedia
9. Kailash and Kutumsar Caves
The Kailash and Kotumsar caves are in the dense cover of Kanger Valley National Park. In fact, the caves are in close proximity to the Tiratgarh falls.
These underground caves are at 35 meters subterranean level and a definite gem for Chattisgarh tourism. The Kailash Cave was discovered in 1993 and sits atop a small hill. These caves are one of the few places to witness stalagmites and stalactites. The caves stretch for over two kilometers and are pitch-dark. Due to the scarcity of oxygen, only specific parts of the cave are open to public exploration. Another striking feature of the caves is that the hollow walls create stunning sounds when lightly tapped by hand.
Well, we believe that these top 9 places to see in Chattisgarh have surely invoked in you a desire to get up and travel. Go ahead and plan the ultimate trip to witness these gems that Chattisgarh tourism has to offer. Hit us up on Twitter/Facebook/Instagram if you need any help with planning. We will help you #MarkAndEmbark on a journey of a lifetime.
