One of the densely tree-laden or landlocked states in central India, Chhattisgarh is carpeted with approx 45% of the forests and 32% of the tribal inhabitants. Endowed with beautiful temples and waterfalls, the state has developed an alcove for itself on the globetrotter’s map of India. With archaeological sites, rich wildlife, caves, and hill station, the state offers exciting opportunities for Excursions, Eco-Ethno, and Culture Exploration.

 

History

 

The history of Chhattisgarh, which was known as South Kosala goes back to Maratha rule and British rule from 1741 to 1845 AD and 1845 to 1947, respectively. The onset of British rule in 1845 brought prestige for Raipur over the Ratanpur which was the prior capital of Chhattisgarh.

 

Places to visit in Chhattisgarh

Raipur 

The largest city and capital of Chhattisgarh, Raipur is known as the largest industrial hub of India because of the presence of bounteous steel mills, six steel plants, and huge aluminum & coal industries. The city is famous for its multicultural society, lakes, temples, factories, educational institutions, and the development of Naya (New) Raipur. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Chitrakoot Falls, Dandak Caves, Amarkantak, Bilaspur, Bhilai, Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Kanha National Park are some of the famous tourist attractions of the city, also known as the ‘rice bowl of India’.

 

Best time to visit: Nov-Feb

 

 Jagdalpur

In the Bastar district of the state, Jagdalpur is one of the beloved tourist destinations in Chhattisgarh after Bhilai and Raipur. Known for palaces and monuments, the city has a rich chronicle of past political activism, abundant beauty, and natural amazements like waterfalls, lakes & forests which makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers who desire to spend holidays away from the crowd and daily distractions. 

Best time to visit: Nov – Feb

 

Dhamtari 

Famous for its temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and folk culture, Dhamtari is home to the 14th Century’s Chalukya empire and an exclusive tourist place of Chhattisgarh with a population of just 82000. The town is situated along the banks of Mahanadi and its tributaries Shivnath, Kharun, Joan, Sondur & Pairy and attracts large tourists every year due to diversified cultural arts & cuisines and Ravishankar Water Dam which is the famous fascination for tourists, especially during monsoons.

Best time to visit: Oct-Mar

 

Dantewada

Located in the Bastar district and blessed with natural intrinsics that range from hill peaks to water streams, Dantewada town offers panoramic scenery of spouting rivers, divine hills, gleaming waterfalls, and lush grassy meadows. Historically, the place was titled after the name of deity Danteshwari – an incarnation of Shakti who came to stay at the Danteshwari Mandir. 

 

Best time to visit: Oct-Mar

 

Manipat

Shimla of Chhattisgarh – Mainpat is a verdant hill station with grassy meadows, beautiful & soothing waterfalls & streamlets, deep valleys, and packed forests. Also known as Mini Tibet due to the high Tibetan population, the place lacks commercialization, however, it showcases a junction of cultures and different traditions that multiplies the panoramic beauty of the village. 

 

Best time to visit: Sep-Feb

 

Rajim

‘Prayag’ of Chhattisgarh – Rajim is the place of ‘Triveni Sangam’ i.e. the union point of three holy rivers – Mahanadi (Chitrotpala), Pairi, and Sonder. Kumbh Mela of Chhattisgarh takes place at Rajim every year from Magh Poornima to Mahashivaratri and many pilgrims from different places across India come here to participate in this huge spiritual event.

Besides, the place has historical monuments and famous temples like Rajiv Lochan Temple, Ramachandra Temple, the Rajeshwar Temple, Jagannath Temple, Dhaneshwar Temple, and Champaran that entice the tourists. 

 

Best time to visit: Oct-March

 

Malhar

The most historic town of Chhattisgarh – Malhar holds the highest archaeological prestige due to the presence of prominent sculptures and ancient enchantment. The place has also bagged a position for itself on the ‘Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains of National Importance’ list which is updated by the Archaeological Survey of India. 

Many archaic temples like Devi Temple, Pataleshwar Temple, and the Dindeshwari Temple that have been dredged up are the major endearments of this town. 

 

Best time to visit: Oct-Feb

 

Delectable dishes of Chhattisgarh

• Muthia
• Aamat
• Chila
• Bhajia
• Sabudana ki Khichdi
• Bara
• Faraa
• Tilgur
• Khurma
• Bafauri
• Dubki Kadi

 

Best Places to Eat

• Sankalp Restaurant
• Gadh Kaleva
• Hotel Rasoi Inn
• MoMo Cafe
• Noah’s Ark
• Barbeque Nation
• The Sigdi

 

 

Budget

 

• Capital O 4155 
• Hotel The Sudesh
• Hotel Simran Heritage
• Hotel Grand Imperia
• Hotel The Golden Oak

 

Average

 

• Hotel Mayura 
• Hotel Grand Dhillon
• Hotel Celebration
• Hotel East Park

 

Luxury 

 

• Hotel Vennington Court
• Hyatt Raipur
• Sayaji Hotel Raipur
• Hotel VW Canyon